Travelers often seek rural serenity outside Berlin, yet the city itself holds a hidden gem. Lübars, an authentic Berlin village, lies just 13 kilometers north of the eastern city center. It offers a surprising countryside atmosphere, a distinct departure from urban sprawl.
Typical apartment blocks and office buildings gradually fade from view when approaching Lübars. Instead, visitors encounter a landscape more reminiscent of neighboring Brandenburg. This includes a picturesque hill, lush cornfields, and parts of an actual 13th-century settlement.
The ‘Alte Fasanerie,’ or Old Pheasantry, sits at the foot of Lübars’ hill. This charming spot provides an excellent playground for children. During warmer months, outdoor tables appear, offering refreshments like lemonade and beer to visitors.
Countless families enjoy sunny days on the vast pastures of the ‘Lübarser Höhe,’ the village hill. It provides ample space for picnics, kite flying, and various sports. Moreover, the hill boasts a unique view; distant apartment blocks, often considered unattractive up close, appear almost scenic from this vantage point.
The extensive Lübars Fields spread throughout this area, now part of the Reinickendorf district. Historical documents first mention the village in 1247. Locals likely cultivated similar crops 773 years ago, and Lübars’ cobblestone streets probably looked much as they do today.
However, the year 1247 certainly predates Angelina’s Ice Cream Parlor. This establishment is undoubtedly Lübars’ most popular summer attraction. Patrons often form long queues for classic vanilla, strawberry, or chocolate ice cream.
The ‘Alter Dorfkrug,’ an old village pub, dates back to the mid-19th century and enjoys monument protection. Its interior maintains an authentic charm. Guests can savor excellent food and fine wines in its garden or former ballroom. This restaurant, nestled in the village center near the old church and a historic phone booth, truly enhances the area.
A scenic path leads from the cobblestone streets, winding through fields and pastures. It culminates at Berlin’s last open water source, the ‘Osterquelle.’ Unfortunately, this spring, feeding the tiny ‘Quellgraben’ brook, now produces more mud than water. For a larger body of water, visitors can head to Ziegelei Lake.
Horse riding stands as a primary activity in Lübars. Numerous paddocks and stables are dotted across the village. These facilities house very well-cared-for animals.
Lübars held even greater tourist appeal during the Cold War era. Its existence as a 13th-century village with working farmers within walled West Berlin seemed both exotic and intriguing. In many ways, that distinctive charm persists today. Accessing Lübars is straightforward via bicycle, car, or bus lines 222 and X21.
