Taking a refreshing swim in the cool waters of the upper Warnow on a lukewarm summer day and then watching the sailboats rocking during the sunset in the city harbor with a cool drink. Despite these unique opportunities, Rostock is still a truly underrated city. But why you should put the Hanseatic city on your to-do list and what makes it so special, you will learn in our declaration of love.
The Hanseatic city has a history of over 800 years. In 1218, the city received its city charter and with the accession to the Hanseatic League in 1283, it gained further importance. Of course, the port and the direct proximity to the Baltic Sea were decisive for the economic boom, which brought prosperity and prestige to the people of the city. The university, founded in 1419, also contributed greatly to the Hanseatic city's upswing.
Who Rostock would like to experience, there are many opportunities here. Of course, there are the activities and sights that are recommended to every tourist. But it is also worth leaving the beaten track and explore new things. But what is there in Rostock Things to see besides the usual museums and churches?
Kröpi, or Kröpeliner Straße, is not only the Hanseatic city's boulevard, but also its heart. Here you can store well, gladly and unagitatedly and also otherwise enjoy yourself. Small pubs and restaurants invite you to linger, where you can also enjoy a cool beer from the local Hanseatic brewery.
For those interested in culture, there is a chance to explore the museums and churches of the Hanseatic city.
Via Lange Straße, the route goes through the northern old town down to the city harbor on the Warnow River. Relaxed and pleasant hours can be spent in the restaurants overlooking the water. Water sports enthusiasts will find small stores here and can try out the equipment on site.
Here, where the ships to Warnemünde and depart for the harbor tour and where the berths for sailboats and motor yachts are almost fully booked in summer, there is also a historic crane facility. Until the 1990s, goods were still handled here. Today, the technical monuments are a landmark of the Hanseatic city.
There is sailing on the Warnow, and other water sports activities on the Upper and Lower Warnow, where the river is not quite as wide. With the help of the Canoe Club (RKC), which has produced many a successful canoeist, the Warnow can be explored by canoe. At the gates of the Hanseatic city, along the river, with St. Mary's Church in view and past several houseboats, the water sports enthusiast can enjoy the peace and quiet. Such a tour has its own charm and is absolutely recommendable.
Right next to the canoe club is the Flussbad. The club-run facility has its own flair. Those who don't necessarily want to go to the well-filled beaches of the Baltic Sea in summer will find a small bathing oasis at Mühlendamm - not far from the city center. 3,500 square meters of water with a diving tower, an "iceberg" and a water slide offer lots of fun. For the little ones there is a mud playground and those who want to do some sports can do so either on the volleyball court or in the water on the canoe polo area.
Where there is water, you may also go on the boards. Stand up paddling is offered in many facets along the Warnow: With the mobile SUP station it is even easier to open up to this hobby. In addition to courses - depending on previous knowledge - SUP yoga is also gaining more and more followers. Stability on the board and elegant movements unite here.
An undertaking of a somewhat different kind is offered by the river sauna. On a converted houseboat, visitors can explore the city on the Warnow River, enjoy the silhouette and take an extensive sauna at the same time. Eight people can be accommodated on the converted houseboat, which features upscale amenities. On the sweatbox there is a sauna room with a panoramic window on 10 by 4 meters, a relaxation room with eight loungers, a terrace with two hanging chairs as well as further seating, kitchen and bathroom. Drinks and fruit have been thought of, as well as the boat's safety equipment and two pile anchors, boat hooks, lines and fenders. And best of all, the plunge pool is right by the boat.
While we are at it to rave, then we also want to show our favorite place. This is located on the other side of the Warnow River. On a beautiful wooden pier you can make a cozy picnic and have a great view of the city. Especially early risers are rewarded with a unique sunrise at this great place.
So you don't necessarily have to look for Warnemünde to be able to experience maritime flair. And yet it is worth taking a detour to the small Baltic seaside resort. Warnemünde was first mentioned in a document in 1195 and has belonged to the Hanseatic city since 1323. On the way to the beach, there is the obligatory fish sandwich that must be protected at all costs from the ravenous seagulls that punish any carelessness with an "attack". Once the Baltic Sea is reached, there is nothing more than waves, water and wind. You can also get active here: the Baltic Sea is definitely a surfing hotspot. A little tip: An overnight stay at the Dock Inn, a hotel made of containers, is a real experience. The stylish house is equipped with a bouldering corner, a cinema, foosball and pinball.
In Rostock Discovering things worth seeing is not difficult. The IGA Park between the districts of Schmarl and Groß Klein offers not only concerts and open-air cinema performances during the summer months. The traditional ship "Typ Frieden" is also moored on the banks of the Warnow River and can be visited as a shipbuilding museum. Photographers will also find great photo spots in the IGA Park.
On the other side of the Warnow is not only the harbor. In the direction of Markgrafenheide and Graal Müritz lies the Rostock Heath, a recreational area of more than 6,000 hectares with the largest coastal forest in Germany. The protected landscape area offers excursionists a network of trails about 60 kilometers long, which can be explored on foot or by bike. Especially for outdoor fanatics like us, the area is an absolute paradise.
We are overjoyed to call this area home. Rostock offers a huge variety and captivates with a unique atmosphere. Living here feels like a vacation every day, especially in summer. That's exactly why we recommend you to absorb a little of this atmosphere and pay a visit to the unique Hanseatic city.
Cover photo: Built close to the water - the Hanseatic city of Rostock © TMV/Manthey
