Zollenspieker Fährhaus

In 1252, the Zollenspieker Fährhaus began its long life. It wasn’t a hotel then. It served as a customs station. Imagine the Elbe River flowing by, much as it does today. Picture boatmen stopping to pay their tolls. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus stood as a vital point of control along this busy waterway. The name itself, “Zollenspieker,” hints at this early function. “Tol” means toll, and “Spieker” refers to a warehouse. So, Zollenspieker was a place where goods could be stored and tolls were collected. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus has witnessed centuries of history unfold. It was destroyed by Lüneburg troops in 1620 and rebuilt the following year. During the Thirty Years’ War, troops frequently camped at the Fährhaus. By 1870, it had transformed into a popular tourist destination, complete with a restaurant and a dance hall. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus wasn’t just a place of business. It was a social hub, a place where people gathered to enjoy the majestic Elbe River and the lively atmosphere. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus has been a hotel since 2012, blending historical charm with modern elegance. The original structure, a testament to its rich past, stands alongside a new building. It successfully met the criteria for a 4-star rating under the German Hotel Classification. This combination of old and new creates a unique experience for guests. Visitors can enjoy comfortable rooms, first-class service, and excellent cuisine while surrounded by the echoes of history. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus stands as a piece of Hanseatic history, inviting guests to experience its rich past and present-day comforts.