2_0_DiscoverGermany_July 2015_Issue28:Scan Magazine 1
26/6/15
11:41
Page 50
Charming historic town with a stunning lakeside setting Plau am See [Plau on the Lake] in the Ludwigslust-Parchim district of MecklenburgWestern Pomerania is a true gem for nature lovers, water sport enthusiasts and little adventurers too. TEXT: TINA AWTANI | PHOTOS: TOURIST INFO PLAU AM SEE
Located on the western shore of Lake Plau, one of Germany’s largest lakes, and the Müritz-Elde-Waterway, the area is officially declared a climatic health resort and part of the famous Mecklenburg Lake District. Plau am See was established as a town in 1235 and beautiful timber framed houses as well as lovingly preserved brick buildings in the historic city centre are silent witnesses of the past. A visit to Plau am See holds many positive surprises and highlights include “the lifting bridge, the Burgturm fortress tower with its rampart, the St. Marien church dating back to 13th century or our town hall, which is built in Dutch Renaissance style,”as Michael Wufka, managing director at Tourist Info Plau am See, points out. A new watchtower directly above where the Müritz-Elde-Waterway meets Lake Plau offers spectacular views. “The interaction of silence, nature and water right in front of our doorstep makes
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one leave all stress behind immediately. A stroll through the forest or along the shores of Lake Plau is truly relaxing and paddling along the Elde River through town towards the open Lake Plau facilitates the feeling of total freedom,” Wufka says. Don’t miss the Plauer Segelsommer sailing weeks, when countless white sails are gracing the glistening water. Walk, cycle or take a bus around the lake and take advantage of the ‘Plau kocht’ campaign. Initiated by award-winning chefs, seven restaurants around the lake teamed up to offer delicious culinary delights made from local produce. Plau am See is great for families as kids never get bored. They can follow the traces of the knights in the ancient ruins, explore the technical innovations of the 19th century in the Burgmuseum, which gets an entire new floor in 2015, or take a guided tour
Main image: The old town of Plau am See Above: Endless waterways offer perfect recreation (top) Hiking path through the forest along the lake (below) Below: Inside the Burgmuseum Award-winning chefs of Plau cooking campaign (bottom)
through town with Plaulina, the lovely witch. More adventure is available in the Bärenwald Müritz bear compound, where 19 of these magnificent animals can be observed in their natural habitat. www.plau-am-see.de www.plau-kocht.de