Imagine the gentle lapping of the Havel against the shore. We are standing on the banks gazing out at Lindwerder. This small island holds a history far larger than its 2.2 hectares. Lindwerder also called Gatower Lindwerder is a tranquil escape.
Lindwerder is a remnant of a once larger glacial moraine. It was formed after the last ice age. The island sits about 200 meters from the Grunewald’s eastern shore. It is nestled between Lieper Bay and Steinlanke.
The names Lipa and Lanke hint at the past. They are Slavic words meaning “Linde” and “small lake.” These names tell us of the Polabian people who once lived here. Even today, the linden tree is the most common tree on Lindwerder with 56 trees.
Let’s journey back to 1888. Dr Koch, a landowner, purchased Lindwerder. Eleven years later, he started building a house. A freight ferry was used to bring building materials to the island.
By 1905, Lindwerder became a popular destination. A public ferry made the island accessible. An excursion steamer landing was built on the west shore. Sadly, tragedy struck in January 1912. Georg Heym, an expressionist poet, drowned near Lindwerder while ice skating.
After World War II, the island changed again. Large amounts of rubble were dumped on the east side. This increased Lindwerder’s size by 3,000 square meters. The dumping also shortened the crossing from the mainland.
In 1956, the Yacht Club Müggelsee chose Lindwerder as its home. The club expanded over the following years. A new restaurant was built in 1971. It continues to welcome visitors today.
Currently, two ferries serve Lindwerder. A private passenger ferry can be summoned by ringing a bell. A freight ferry handles supplies. Lindwerder offers a restaurant with delicious food. You can reach Lindwerder by ferry. The ferry is summoned with a bell. The ride costs a small fee for adults. Children ride for free.
As you wander the island, consider its past. Think of the people who lived and visited here. Lindwerder stands as a testament to Berlin’s history. It is also a peaceful retreat. The island is a place where nature and history intertwine.