Have you ever walked among trees older than your great-grandparents? Welcome to Handewitter Forst. This 590-hectare forest near Handewitt is a treasure. It’s one of the largest contiguous wooded areas in Schleswig-Flensburg.
Handewitter Forst or Hanved Skov in Danish has a rich history. Written records first mention it in 1558. For centuries uncontrolled logging threatened the forest. Thankfully in the 18th century a gamekeeper was appointed. This helped to stop the reckless deforestation.
Initially the forest was mainly deciduous trees. Years of over-exploitation changed that. Fast-growing conifers like Norway spruce Sitka spruce Douglas fir and white fir were planted. You can still see many of these today. However some hardy pines and hemlock thrive in the sandy soil. Oak and beech trees add diversity to the mix.
Storms in 1962 and 1967 severely damaged Handewitter Forst. These devastating events forced a shift. More deciduous trees are now planted. The forest is managed using natural forestry principles. This means reducing the number of conifers and prioritizing native trees like beech and oak.
The highest point in Handewitt is within Handewitter Forst. It reaches a modest 62 meters. The Autobahn 7 cuts through a small part of the forest. Rest stops Altholzkrug are at either end of this section. The northwestern edge is known as Handewitt-Busch.
Handewitter Forst is part of the Flensburg state forest. Schleswig-Holsteinische Landesforsten manages it. A district forester oversees Handewitter Forst and nearby areas. These include Klueser Wald and Glücksburger Wald.
Sadly the majestic Snake Eagle once nested here until 1884. Today you can spot black woodpeckers and bats. A forest kindergarten is also located within the peaceful woods. Storms Christian and Xaver in 2013 caused extensive damage. The scars of these powerful storms are still visible.
Explore Handewitter Forst. Discover its long history and diverse plant life. Notice the contrast between old and new growth. Appreciate the resilience of this special place.