Water Tree Ockensen in Lower Saxony

In the village of Ockensen, part of Salzhemmendorf in the Weser Uplands, stands a natural phenomenon unlike any other in Lower Saxony: the Water Tree. From its moss-covered tip, clear spring water continuously bubbles forth.

Over many decades, the calcium-rich spring water shaped the Water Tree by depositing layer upon layer of travertine, gradually forming an impressive tufa sculpture. Mosses and lichens spread across its porous surface, while small animals use the damp environment as a sheltered habitat. Nestled in a cool hollow surrounded by lush greenery, the Water Tree stands like a living sculpture. The gentle trickle of water and the peaceful atmosphere give the place an almost fairytale-like quality.

Hiking to the Water Tree

The Water Tree can be reached via the SA 2 "Water Tree Ockensen" nature park trail, which winds through the gentle hills of the Weser Uplands. Along the way, you’ll enjoy wide-open views and educational nature trails with fascinating information about water, geology, and landscape conservation. At the destination, you can rest, take in the tranquil mood, and observe nature in all its richness.

The Water Tree owes its origin not only to nature, but also to an early 20th-century technical setup. Between 1904 and 1926, sawmill owner Hermann Meyer operated a sawmill in Ockensen powered by a water turbine. To create enough pressure, a small reservoir pond was built above the village at the Ith hills, with pipes running downhill to the sawmill.

To monitor water levels, Meyer installed a tall overflow pipe below the pond. When the reservoir was full, water would begin to flow out of the pipe – a simple yet effective signal. Over the years, the calcium-rich water left behind deposits of calcium carbonate at the outlet. With the help of moss growth, these deposits eventually formed the distinctive tree-shaped tufa formation seen today.

Today, the Water Tree is considered a protected natural monument and a unique example of the interplay between technology, geology, and ecology.

The Water Tree is located in the Weser Uplands Nature Park, near the Ith Hills, in the village of Ockensen, part of the Salzhemmendorf municipality (Lower Saxony). It is easily accessible by both car and public transportation.

By Car

You can reach the trailhead by taking either B1 or B240. From Hameln or Hildesheim, follow signs to Salzhemmendorf and continue toward Ockensen. Parking is available in the village, including near the start of the nature park trail.

By Public Transport

Take the train to Hameln or Alfeld (Leine). From there, regional bus line 44 (Hameln–Salzhemmendorf–Alfeld) runs to the stop "Ockensen Ortsmitte". From the bus stop, it’s only a short walk to the circular hiking trail that leads to the Water Tree.