Picturesque town of fairy tales, home of the race between the hare and hedgehog
The Hanseatic and Fairytale Town of Buxtehude is located in the holiday region “Altes Land am Elbstrom” (Old Country on the Elbe). Families, cyclists, hikers, and fairytale enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for a relaxing holiday, varied vacations, and enjoyable day trips. Motorhome travelers following the German Fairy Tale Route can stop at the camper site near the historic old town and explore Buxtehude and the surrounding region from there.
A maritime atmosphere permeates the historic town center with its many half-timbered houses. Buxtehude was the first German town to be systematically built around a central harbor basin, making it the most modern harbor foundation on German soil at the time. As a former inner-city harbor, the Fleth canal—alongside St. Petri Church, a Gothic brick basilica—is one of the city’s most important landmarks.
Buxtehude for Fairytale Enthusiasts
Buxtehude is famous as the town where “dogs bark with their tails and the hare and the hedgehog race each other.” Everything in Buxtehude revolves around these charming animals: ballet performances, art exhibitions, the Hare and Hedgehog Fountain, children’s books, and souvenirs. Life-sized, individually designed hare and hedgehog figures can be found in front of shops throughout the town, giving the historic fairytale a modern touch.
Anyone wishing to learn more about the tale of the Hare and the Hedgehog has come to the right place. On guided city tours led by guides dressed in hare and hedgehog costumes, visitors hear stories and anecdotes about Buxtehude with charm and wit, accompanied by the famous phrase “Ick bün al hier” (“I’m already here”).
After strolling through the town, guests can relax in one of the many small cafés in the old town. During the Christmas season, Buxtehude becomes especially magical when the town center is transformed into a winter wonderland. A cozy atmosphere, sparkling lights, the scent of mulled wine, traditional crafts, spectacular walk acts, numerous activities for children, and festive music attract visitors from near and far every year. Under the illuminated canopy of lights—decorated with hares and hedgehogs—it is wonderful to stroll through the town. Further information about the Buxtehude Winter Wonderland can be found at www.wintermärchen-buxtehude.de.
Buxtehude for Holidaymakers and Day Visitors
Hikers and cyclists can discover the diverse natural surroundings of Buxtehude. An extensive network of trails opens up not only the historic old town but also the natural highlights within the city area: the upper and lower reaches of the Este River, the Neukloster Forest, the beginning of the Altes Land region, and the varied landscapes of moorland, marshes, and geest. Scenic cycling routes along the Este and the Elbe offer beautiful views and plenty to enjoy. The Hare and Hedgehog Cycling Route around the fairytale town is particularly well suited for day trips.
