Top 16 Natural Monuments around Kriesow
Natural monuments around Kriesow are found in the Mecklenburgische Seenplatte district, an area known for its ancient woodlands and diverse natural landscapes. The region offers a blend of historical sites and opportunities for wildlife observation. Kriesow's surroundings feature impressive natural monuments, including some of Germany's oldest trees. This makes the area a destination for those interested in natural history and outdoor exploration.
Best natural monuments around Kriesow
- The most popular natural monument is Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack, a natural monument that features trees between 500 and 1,000 years old. Individual specimens reach over 30 meters in height, and the area is wheelchair accessible.
- Another must-see spot is Turopolje Pigs in Ivenacker Tiergarten, an other natural attraction. Visitors can experience many animals up close, including free-roaming fallow deer and Turopolje Pigs.
- Visitors also love Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk, a viewpoint offering a magnificent panoramic view. This path is laid out as a tour and provides information about the origin and peculiarities of the oaks.
- Kriesow is known for ancient trees, diverse wildlife habitats, and historical sites. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from ancient oaks to areas with free-roaming animals.
- The natural monuments around Kriesow are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 350 photos shared.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack
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Turopolje Pigs in Ivenacker Tiergarten
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Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk
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Ivenack Oaks
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Slavic hillfort at Kastorfer Lake
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There is also a covered resting area with a view of the Kastorfer See.
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Tips from the Community
It is assumed that the three castles on Lake Kastorf represented the political and cultural center of the Tollenser people.
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The Wildberg Castle Wall is located in the municipality of Wildberg on the eastern shore of Lake Kastorf. It consists of a smaller main castle and two arched outer castles and was built in the 7th or 8th century. The castle complex has been repeatedly renovated and expanded over time. Together with the castle wall island on Lake Kastorf, these castles presumably form the political and cultural center of the Tollenser people.
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We enter the zoo and reach the 1,000-year-old oak trees, Germany's first national monument. After a few meters we see the first animals. The small baroque pavilion is a real gem, with a special exhibition on hunting inside. When we leave again, we are greeted by fallow deer. We are really impressed by the animals running around freely, with information boards to read. We explore the grounds and find the crispy ponds, 700 to 800 years old. Looking around us, the forest as a whole is impressive. We are standing in the middle of a pasture forest, a forest pasture that was used by the Slavs for livestock 1,000 years ago. The forest is the result of this long use. The Turopolje pigs are not showing themselves today. https://youtu.be/OTc4Ax3iIn8
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Ivenacker EICHEN - English oaks: the oldest over 1000 years old, measures approx. 3.50m trunk diameter, 32m height and 12m trunk circumference - also possible to take an adventure tour on the treetop path and have a picnic with fallow deer
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Ivenacker OAKS - the oldest is over 1000 years old, measures approx. 3.50m in diameter, 12m trunk circumference and 32m in height
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The 1,000-year-old Ivenacker oaks are part of the Ivenacker zoo. They are the cultural and natural history highlight of the area. The Ivenacker zoo is located in the landscape conservation area of the same name. The area lies 40 to 50 meters above sea level in the gently undulating ground moraine and was geologically shaped by the Pomeranian stage of the Vistula glaciation. Fallow deer have been kept in Ivenack since the 17th century. Around 100 animals live on 70 hectares. Because deer and visitors are in the same enclosure, the impression of the wild is largely preserved. The area is also home to four wild horses. https://www.auf-nach-mv.de/reiseziele/a-nationales-naturmonument-ivenacker-eichen
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The Ivenacker Tiergarten includes the 1,000-year-old Ivenacker oak trees. They are the cultural and natural historical highlight of the area. As the first national natural monument, the Ivenack oaks are a cultural and natural historical specialty. They are among the oldest trees in Germany and have a special symbolic power. The Ivenack oaks, which are probably around 1,000 years old, are witnesses to the land use of the Hude (Hüte) Forest that was widespread in the Middle Ages. Over the centuries, cattle were driven into the surrounding forests to graze. By eating away growth, some trees were able to develop particularly well. In the Hudewald area of 164 hectares you can find around 240 strong trees, predominantly oaks. The strongest oak has a diameter of 3.49 m, a height of 35.5 m and a wood volume of approx. 180 m². This makes it the strongest and oldest live oak in Germany and probably also in Central Europe. https://www.auf-nach-mv.de/reiseziel/a-nationales-naturmonument-ivenacker-eichen
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most impressive natural monuments to see around Kriesow?
The region around Kriesow is home to several impressive natural monuments. A must-see is the Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack, featuring trees between 500 and 1,000 years old, with some individual specimens towering over 30 meters. Another notable site is the Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk, which offers magnificent panoramic views and provides information about the ancient oaks.
Are there natural monuments around Kriesow that are family-friendly?
Yes, several natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. The Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack and the broader Ivenack Oaks area are considered family-friendly. Additionally, the Turopolje Pigs in Ivenacker Tiergarten offer a unique experience where visitors can observe free-roaming fallow deer and Turopolje Pigs up close, which is particularly engaging for all ages.
Which natural monuments around Kriesow are wheelchair accessible?
The area around the Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack is wheelchair accessible, allowing a wider range of visitors to enjoy these ancient trees. The Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk is also designed to be wheelchair accessible, providing an inclusive way to experience the views from the treetops.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near the natural monuments?
Near the natural monuments, especially within the Ivenacker Tiergarten, you can observe diverse wildlife. The Turopolje Pigs in Ivenacker Tiergarten highlight specifically mentions the opportunity to see free-roaming fallow deer and Turopolje Pigs up close in their natural habitat.
Are there historical sites among the natural monuments in the Kriesow region?
Yes, the region blends natural beauty with historical significance. The Slavic hillfort at Kastorfer Lake is a notable historical site that also functions as a natural monument. This ancient three-part castle complex, settled in the Old Slavic period, offers insights into the region's past alongside views of the lake.
What hiking opportunities are available near the natural monuments around Kriesow?
There are various hiking opportunities near the natural monuments. For example, you can find routes like the "Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack – Ivenack Oaks loop from Ivenacker Eichen" which is a moderate 10.7 km hike, or easier options like the "Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack – Ivenack Oaks loop from Ivenack" at 2.2 km. You can explore more hiking trails in the area by visiting the Hiking around Kriesow guide.
Can I go cycling near the natural monuments in Kriesow?
Absolutely. The Kriesow area offers several cycling routes that pass by or are close to natural monuments. For instance, you can find routes like the "Ivenack Oaks – Gützkow Manor House loop from Kriesow" which is an easy 43 km road cycling route. For a comprehensive list of options, check out the Cycling around Kriesow guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Kriesow guide.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Kriesow?
The region around Kriesow, with its ancient woodlands and diverse natural landscapes, is appealing throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer vibrant colors and pleasant temperatures for outdoor exploration, while summer allows for longer days and full foliage. Even winter provides opportunities for tranquil walks among the ancient trees.
Are there viewpoints to enjoy panoramic scenery near Kriesow's natural monuments?
Yes, the Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk is specifically designed as a viewpoint, offering magnificent panoramic views from the height of the treetops. Additionally, the Slavic hillfort at Kastorfer Lake provides a viewpoint overlooking Kastorfer Lake.
What makes the Ivenack Oaks so special?
The Ivenack Oaks are renowned for being among the oldest trees in Germany, with some specimens, like the Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack, estimated to be between 500 and 1,000 years old. Their immense age, size (over 30 meters tall), and historical significance give them a special symbolic power, making them a unique natural wonder.
Is there parking available at the Ivenack Oaks?
While specific parking details are not provided, popular natural attractions like the Ivenack Oaks typically have designated parking areas for visitors. It is advisable to check local signage or official websites for the most current parking information before your visit.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors frequently express awe at the age and size of the ancient trees, particularly the Thousand-Year-Old Oak of Ivenack. The opportunity to experience wildlife up close, such as the free-roaming fallow deer and Turopolje Pigs in the Ivenacker Tiergarten, is also highly appreciated. The informative and scenic Ivenack Oaks Treetop Walk is also a highlight for many.
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