Famed for its rhododendron festival, Westerstede serves as the capital of Lower Saxony’s Ammerland district. The region’s acidic peat soils are ideal for the growth of rhododendrons, which have been cultivated here and shipped around the globe for decades.
Things to do in Westerstede
On the edge of Westerstede’s town centre is the Ammerländer Spielzeugmuseum, a toy museum filled with vintage dolls, teddies and model railways. Relive your childhood memories as you browse the hand-carved wooden toys that are on display, together with miniature soldiers and play tea sets.
Green thumbs shouldn’t miss a visit to Rhododendronpark Hobbie, which is Germany’s largest garden dedicated to rhododendrons. Established by Dietrich Gerhard Hobbie in the 1920s, it is traversed by a network of walking trails that wind between its ancient trees and themed garden beds. After discovering the unique varieties and hybrid rhododendrons on display, you can relax with a hot drink at the Park Cafe.
Travelling with kids? They’ll love letting loose at Landerlebnis, a family-friendly amusement park featuring tractor rides, an upside-down barn and a miniature roller coaster. The on-site petting zoo is home to friendly donkeys, geese and pigs while the outdoor playground boasts swings, slides and a mud pit. Local produce is for sale at the farm store.
Getting around Westerstede
Westerstede is around 30 minutes’ drive from Oldenburg and one hour from Bremen. Bremen Airport is also an hour away and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Westerstede-Ocholt railway station, which is around five minutes’ by taxi from the town centre. Renting a car is the most convenient way of accessing the surrounding attractions.