The Steinhuder Meer or Lake Steinhude is a lake in Lower Saxony, Germany. The Lake is located 30 KM northwest of Hanover. It lies within a region known as the Hanoverian Moor Geest. The lake is named after the nearby village of Steinhude, has an area of about 30 square kilometers. The steinhuder Meer is the largest lake of northwestern Germany. The Lake Steinhude is very shallow, with an average depth of only 4.4 ft and a maximum depth of less than 9.8 ft.

The Steinhuder Meer is part of the glacial landscape formed after the recession of the glaciers of the latest Ice Age, the Weichselian glaciation. Nature lovers can join one of the nature and landscape tours and with luck catch a glimpse of sea eagles. The environment around the lake can be best explored as a one or two-day trip around the Steinhuder Meer.

The two theories explained the formation of Lake Steinhuder. The first one says that glaciers gouged out the hole and meltwater filled it. However the other theory says that an ice storm formed the hole and as the groundwater rose, the lake was formed. The most important is 18^th century fortification small artificial island “The Wilhelmstein”.  The Wilhelmstein Island was built around 1761 to 1765 then used as a military fortress. Afterwards it was used as military school. It is located in the middle of lake. The The Steinhuder Meer is heart of nature reserve, and also used as recreational area.

The other Badeinsel Steinhude  was built in 1975 using sand retrieved from the lake. It has a sandy beach which is popular during summer.  Access to this island is via 80m pedestrian bridge from Steinhude. The lake offers the opportunity for sailing and surfing for water enthusiasts.

The Steinhuder Meer as a Tourist Place:

The lake steinhuder is famous destination for locals and for vacationists. Up to three ships offer cruises; they are supplemented by smaller boats running on schedule across the lake. The various small shops, seafood restaurants and markets invite you to take a stroll or enjoy a good meal. A beautiful bike path encircles the lake, crossing various landscapes. Source: CP