Müritz Bear Sanctuary
Müritz Bear Sanctuary
Highlight • Structure
Müritz Bear Sanctuary
Cycling
4.4
(304)
Hiking
4.8
(185)
Mountain biking
4.4
(7)
Gravel riding
5.0
(1)
Bärenwald Müritz is a unique animal welfare project and Western Europe's largest bear sanctuary, nestled in the picturesque Mecklenburg Lakes region near Stuer, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. Situated at an elevation of approximately 98 metres, this expansive 16-hectare natural forest provides a species-appropriate home for brown bears rescued from inadequate conditions across Europe, allowing them to rediscover their natural instincts.
Visitors consistently praise the sanctuary for its commitment to animal welfare, offering a rare opportunity to observe rescued bears thriving in a spacious, natural environment. The educational exhibitions throughout the park, coupled with the family-friendly attractions like the forest adventure playground and nature discovery trail, make it a truly engaging experience for all ages. Many appreciate the organic bistro and the fact that their visit directly supports the vital work of FOUR PAWS.
Before heading out, it's good to know that the sanctuary is well-equipped for visitors, including a barrier-free visitor center. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout the park for a small fee, and there's even a dedicated dog playground. Entrance fees vary seasonally, with adults typically paying around €11. For those arriving by bike, convenient bicycle parking is available, and the location is well-connected by the Plauer See circular bus.
The Bärenwald Müritz is open year-round, though bears may be less visible during their winter hibernation. The warmer months offer the best chance to see the bears actively roaming, digging dens, and bathing in ponds. Beyond observing the bears, visitors can enjoy tranquil walks through the forest, participate in guided tours, or explore the various educational stations. Cyclists often incorporate a visit into their routes around the Mecklenburg Lakes.
Many visitors highlight the joy of seeing bears exhibiting natural behaviors, a stark contrast to their previous lives in captivity. The nearby fisherman's kiosk is a popular stop, offering delicious smoked fish rolls, ice cream, and drinks, providing a pleasant refreshment break during your visit. The combination of animal observation, educational insights, and the serene forest setting creates a memorable outing.
Whether you're interested in wildlife spotting, family activities, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk, the Bärenwald Müritz offers a range of experiences. You can explore various trails and routes within the sanctuary, learning about the bears and their journey to recovery. To plan your visit and discover suitable routes for hiking or cycling in the area, komoot offers numerous options that pass by this unique destination.
Cycling is not permitted along parts of this segment
Tips
July 1, 2019
Hiking
•
June 17, 2019
Cycling
The fisherman himself there are delicious smoked fish rolls (about 3-4 € in 2019), ice cream and drinks.
The entrance fee for the bear park can also be paid at the cash desk of the kiosk and then through a small gate to the grounds.
•
January 14, 2023
Hiking
The BÄRENWALD Müritz, an animal welfare project by VIER PFOTEN, offers an alternative for such bears: In near-natural enclosures, the bears can rediscover their instincts and live out their natural behavior – roaming, retreating, digging dens, bathing in the pond, or going into hibernation.
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Details
Informations
Elevation 100 m
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Monday 8 June
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86 %
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Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours and entrance fees for Bärenwald Müritz?
The sanctuary has seasonal opening hours. From March 15 to October 31, it's open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. During the winter season, from November 1 to March 14, hours are daily from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Entrance fees vary: Adults are €11.00, children (5-14 years) are €5.00, and reduced tickets (for pupils 15+, students, severely disabled, pensioners) are €9.00. A family ticket (2 adults + up to 3 children) costs €26.00. Dogs are welcome on leash for a fee of €2.00.
Is Bärenwald Müritz suitable for a winter visit, and will I see bears?
Yes, Bärenwald Müritz is open year-round, including winter. However, bears typically hibernate during the colder months, so they may be less visible or active. The sanctuary offers a different, tranquil experience in winter, but for active bear sightings, the warmer months are generally better.
How long should I plan for a visit to Bärenwald Müritz?
To fully experience the sanctuary, including observing the bears, exploring the educational exhibitions, enjoying the forest adventure playground, and perhaps having a meal at the bistro, visitors typically spend 2 to 4 hours. This allows ample time to walk the trails and learn about the bears' stories.
Are there specific trails or routes within Bärenwald Müritz, and what is their difficulty?
The sanctuary features a network of paths and a nature discovery trail designed for easy walking. The terrain is generally flat and accessible, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The focus is on observation and education rather than strenuous hiking. There are no significant elevation changes or challenging terrains.
What facilities are available for families with children at Bärenwald Müritz?
Bärenwald Müritz is very family-friendly. It boasts a large forest adventure playground, a nature discovery trail with a maze, a high path, and a bear memory game. Throughout the park, educational exhibition stations, like the 'Bear Den,' engage children in learning about bears and animal welfare.
Is Bärenwald Müritz accessible for visitors with mobility challenges or strollers?
Yes, the visitor center is modern and barrier-free. Many of the paths within the sanctuary are designed to be accessible, making it suitable for strollers and visitors with mobility challenges. This allows everyone to enjoy the experience and observe the bears.
Can I bring my dog to Bärenwald Müritz, and are there specific rules?
Dogs are welcome at Bärenwald Müritz for a small fee (€2.00). They must be kept on a leash throughout the park. Additionally, there is a dedicated, free dog playground available for them to enjoy.
What are the parking options and public transport connections to Bärenwald Müritz?
Parking is available on-site. Visitors often note that parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arriving earlier in the day is recommended. For public transport, the sanctuary is well-connected by the Plauer See circular bus, offering a convenient way to reach the location without a car.
Are there food and drink options available at the sanctuary, or nearby?
Within Bärenwald Müritz, there is an organic bistro offering freshly prepared, vegan and vegetarian dishes made from regional ingredients. Additionally, a popular stop for many visitors is the nearby fisherman's kiosk, located at the official side entrance, which offers delicious smoked fish rolls, ice cream, and drinks.
What kind of educational experiences can I expect at Bärenwald Müritz?
The sanctuary provides extensive educational opportunities through information boards and exhibition stations, such as the 'Bear Den,' which educates visitors on bear hibernation, the harsh realities of captive bear life, and animal welfare. Expert-led guided tours are also available, offering deeper insights into the bears' lives and the sanctuary's vital work.
What makes Bärenwald Müritz different from a traditional zoo?
Bärenwald Müritz is an animal welfare project by FOUR PAWS, not a zoo. Its primary mission is to provide a species-appropriate home for brown bears rescued from inadequate conditions, allowing them to rediscover natural behaviors in a vast, natural forest environment. The focus is on rehabilitation and education about animal protection, rather than exhibition.