Plänterwald is an almost 90 hectare big forest right in the middle of the city in Berlin-Treptow. The forest follows the banks of the river. Here stressed out city people can escape the bustle of the capital and take long strolls through this green area.
The shady paths are very popular among runners as well as bikers – part of the European Bicycle Track R1 goes through Plänterwald. The asphaltic track of Dammweg and Kiehnwerderallee inside the area is also great for skating. Families with children especially enjoy the playground as well as the water playground in the middle of the forest. During hot days the cool woods are a welcome change from the sunny city playgrounds. Kindergarden and school classes often visit the educational center Waldschule, which is part of Plänterwald, too.
The area is also famous for the former amusement park Spreepark, which was the only amusement park in the former GDR. In 2002 the park shut down its doors and it’s been one of those abandoned hidden places with all the old rides and figures ever since. In May 2018 the city announced new plans to revive Spreepark. A new recreation park and cultural center is in the making; though the old Ferris wheel is going to be only ride that will be featured there.
