Compared to our first brief visit to
the area in 1999, this time we had longer to look around.
There were
some obvious changes as more big businesses moved in.
For example in the town of Seelaw a
bright new retail park was bringing in the customers.
Prices of goods were still cheaper
than in the UK but the gap was closing.
The lovely
summer weather prompted walks in the large meadows near the River Oder, most of
which flood in times of high rainfall in the river's upper catchment areas.
RIVER ODER
Historical
Bridge Now unused, and the railway connecting Germany with Poland
dismantled, this bridge still spans the River Oder from Poland (on the far
bank).
Barge on the Oder
Flood Prevention Works
The River is a
busy route for commercial transport. In an attempt to prevent some of the worst
flooding, extensive engineering works were in progress on the containment
barriers.
It was near here
that towards the end of the war the first Russian tanks crossed the Oder onto
German soil. It is believed that 50 thousand lives were lost in this this area
in the fierce fighting of those terrible days. The nearby Seelow Heights formed
the last major barrier before the capital Berlin and the desperate defenders
took a terrrible toll of Russian lives. Unexploded shells and corpses of long
dead soldiers are still unearthed regularly.
Behind the monument can be
seen the extensive water meadows.
An unusual sight for English
visitors to these parts are the Storks
"Where's Mum ?"
This tower contained 5 well grown chicks, all staring
north where their parents were hunting. Five is an unusually large brood for
these large birds.
BAA SEE
Near to Bad Freienwalde and new to us was the little
lake of Baa See. Hidden among the forest trees this delightful spot will
defininitely be on our agenda again.
Baa See
And to ease your thirst or hunger what a better
place than the rustic restaurant of Waldschenke am Baa-See, so full
of character.
When your meal
is ready you will be summoned by the hunting horn of friendly proprietor Mirko
Schluchter.
However the opening hours are limited
so telephone first to be sure ..03344 330902
Fish Restaurant and Smokery
Another not-to-be-missed eating place is the
specialist Schechert's Hof Fish Restaurant in Marxdorf. Opened by
Wolfgang Schalow in converted farm buildings the choice of fish dishes and
wines is very impressive, including both local specialities and exotic
varieties from far away places.
Tucked away entrance
Visit his
web site (German language version only) for many more details
of his facilities, including Receptions and also Guest accommodation..
If your browser cannot read frames I
have tried to arrange for you still to view certain pages, although it may
seem a bit disjointed. Go to my Sclachtenseepage or visit the
Central Berlin page.
