Steinhöfel Palace Park

Steinhöfel Palace Park is considered the first landscape garden to be laid out in the English style in the entire Mark Brandenburg. The ensemble includes Steinhöfel Palace, which is one of the most beautiful late Classicist aristocratic residences in the region. It owes its present form to the von Massow family, who had it extended several times in the course of the late 18th century.

Famous architect David Gilly completely rebuilt the palace by order of Valentin von Massow. The farm buildings which previously stood opposite the palace were demolished and replaced with an elongated pond surrounded by trees and a meadow. At the end, a small bridge spans the artificial watercourse as the centre of the newly created park. It was very unusual for this period for the palace not be in the usual central axial position in relation to the garden ensemble but situated to the side of it instead.

The extensive park offers beautiful views of meadows, old trees and the pond. At the entrance, two sphinxes are enthroned on portals, apparently welcoming each visitor individually. Set amid the garden landscape there are other buildings besides the palace which have been harmoniously integrated into the idyllic landscape. The most striking of these in terms of cultural history is the library, which was designed to resemble an ancient temple. Numerous small urn sites are key features in the overall ensemble and are reminiscent of the Romantic period. An extensive walk or simply the opportunity to take in the peace and quiet will make any visit to this park a wonderful outing in the warm summer months.

The design of the gardens harmonises with individual buildings such as the Chinese House, the Bird House and the Library to create memorable landscape images. After your walk you can enjoy the culinary delights served in the restaurant at the Schloss Steinhöfel hotel or else unpack your picnic basket and eat your meal while enjoying the view under one of the beautiful trees.

Year of construction: 1730
How to get there: Car: A12 exit Fürstenwalde/Ost, then via B168 and L36