Description
In the eastern part of Müritz National Park, near the small village of Serrahn, lies a natural treasure of global importance: the Serrahn Beech Forests, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Ancient and Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe". Here, ancient European beeches have been growing undisturbed for centuries, forming one of Germany’s most pristine deciduous forest ecosystems.
The Serrahn woodlands are among the oldest near-natural broadleaf forests in Germany. Towering beeches, scattered old pines, and a mosaic of bogs, lakes, and forest clearings define the landscape. Between gnarled tree giants and decaying logs, rare species such as the speckled fungus moth and hermit beetle find refuge – both dependent on old-growth, structured forests.
Above the waters, white-tailed eagles and ospreys soar, while barbastelle bats emerge at dusk to hunt. In spring, you may spot collared flycatchers and middle spotted woodpeckers feeding their chicks.
Visitors can explore the Serrahn wilderness on the Forest Discovery Trail, which runs between Zinow and Lake Schweingarten. Informational signs along the path share facts about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology. A highlight is the bog boardwalk near the ranger station in Serrahn. The station also houses the interactive exhibit "In the Realm of Beech Trees", offering hands-on insights into this rare ecosystem.
Historical Information
The Serrahn forests are part of a pan-European natural heritage site: in total, 94 forest areas across 18 countries form the world’s largest serial World Heritage site. In Germany, other UNESCO beech forest locations include Jasmund National Park, Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, Hainich National Park, and the Schorfheide-Chorin Biosphere Reserve.
>> Untouched nature: Germany's 16 national parks. Read more
How to get there
The village of Serrahn is located in the eastern part of Müritz National Park, in the state of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, and is accessible by both car and public transportation.
By Car
From Neustrelitz, take B198 toward Carpin, and turn off shortly before Carpin to reach Serrahn. Parking is available in the village, close to the ranger station and bog boardwalk.
By Public Transport
Take the train to Neustrelitz. From there, regional buses toward Feldberg serve stops near Serrahn. As public transport in rural areas doesn’t run frequently, it’s best to check the latest timetables in advance.