Thurbruch and Gothensee Nature Reserve

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Discover the tranquil beauty of Usedom's Thurbruch and Gothensee: a haven for nature lovers with diverse flora, fauna, and serene landscapes.

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Thurbruch und Gothensee

Thurbruch and Gothensee is a nature reserve on the island of Usedom, Germany, characterized by its vast lowland moor, the Gothensee lake, and diverse wildlife. It offers tranquil landscapes and a chance to connect with nature away from the bustling seaside resorts.

A brief summary to Thurbruch und Gothensee

W4JW+CJ, Heringsdorf, DE

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Thurbruch und Gothensee.

Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons.
Wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be wet and uneven.
Visit the Kückelsberg observation tower for panoramic views of the Thurbruch and surrounding areas.

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Getting There

Walking

From the village of Gothen, a well-marked hiking trail leads east towards the Buchfinksberg, offering scenic views of the Thurbruch, the Kaiser Baths, and the Gothensee. The trail is approximately 32 meters high. From the Kaiserbad Bansin, follow the path via Bansin Dorf to Sellin, which is located eight kilometers away.
Public Transport

From Heringsdorf, take bus line 284 towards Usedom. The ride takes approximately 40 minutes. From the Usedom, Schule bus stop, it's a short walk to the southern parts of Thurbruch. A single fare costs approximately €5-€7.

Discover more about Thurbruch und Gothensee

The Thurbruch and Gothensee Nature Reserve, located on the eastern part of Usedom Island, is a sprawling lowland moor encompassing approximately 16 square kilometers. The name 'Thurbruch' translates to 'Aurochs Marsh,' a nod to the wild oxen that once roamed the area. This unique landscape was formed during the last Ice Age, with a glacial tongue basin gradually transforming into a swampy plain. In the 18th century, King Frederick the Great of Prussia initiated drainage works to reclaim the moor for agriculture. Drainage ditches, some dating back to that era, crisscross the area. The landscape is characterized by flat expanses of meadows, pastures, and fields. The 5-kilometer long and approximately one-meter deep Gothensee is Usedom's largest inland lake. In 1967, the lake and surrounding area were declared a nature reserve due to their rich biodiversity. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Botanists admire rare orchids and various water lily species, while the moorlands support a wide array of moor plants. The Thurbruch serves as a resting place for migratory birds, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers. Over 1,900 butterfly species have been identified in the moor. The area also provides habitat for various reptiles and amphibians, including the European adder and moor frog.