Reiswerder – Berlin’s island republic

In the middle of Lake Tegel, hard to believe, lies an island where modern Berlin seems far away: Reiswerder. A "mayor" rules here, although only a small association is in charge. The island is car-free, has no electricity and no running water - which makes it a mysterious place to escape the noise of the city. A walk along narrow paths reveals enchanted nature. And right in the middle of it all: the Inselbaude, where you can expect rustic home cooking and a touch of island romance.

The small island with a big character

Reiswerder is around 330 metres long and up to 180 metres wide.
It is the only one of the Tegel islands to have its own town hall with a tower and clock, symbolising the special identity of the islanders.
Although life on the island is based on pumped water and small facilities, there is still a restaurant: the Inselbaude near Udo, which offers simple meals and its own beer (Wildsau, with hops from Reiswerder).

Pure nature & protected areas

Reiswerder is part of the "Islands in Lake Tegel" nature reserve (LSG-2C).
Part of the island has been deliberately left to nature to create space for native species: Herons, kingfishers, reed warblers as well as wild boars, raccoons and martens find refuge here.
In addition, the district of Reinickendorf has worked with the association to draw up a planting list in 2020 in order to promote endangered trees and shrubs such as willow and elm - with a focus on native species.

History that moves

Reiswerder has always been an island caught between natural and cultural landscapes. Early use by the Bonus family with a focus on agriculture characterised the surroundings.
During National Socialist persecution, the island offered refuge to Jews between 1943 and 1944. they lived in hiding for 18 months until they were discovered in 1944 and deported by the Gestapo. The book Untergetaucht auf Reiswerder vividly documents this fate.
In the 1970s, the number of pavilions was reduced due to the high level of pollution; today there are around 100-120 remaining places.

Atmosphere & experience

City life is far away on Reiswerder. Birds, wind and water are your companions: the lake reflects the shore, paths lead through sparse deciduous forests, and every now and then a view opens up over expanses of water. Every now and then a window rattles, a raccoon scurries past. You will feel a sense of community in the small association - with meetings in the "town hall", communal gardening and small festivals.
At the Inselbaude, you are part of this island society: occasionally you will meet islanders or club members, exchange ideas and enjoy the simple, honest life together.

Arrival & ferry

• The island can only be reached by ferry "Reiswerder ", operated by the association Naturfreunde Baumwerder-Reiswerder 1914 e.V.
• Ferry landing stage on the eastern shore of Lake Tegel, close to the bathing area.
• Timetable: from April to mid-October, the ferry runs daily every half hour from 6:00 am until sunset; in winter (October to March) only on Fridays, weekends and public holidays.
• An exact timetable can be found on the association's website or under "Reiswerder".
• Cost: approx. €3 per person for the return journey (according to reports, please check).

Notes for your excursion

• Due to the protected area, restrictions apply - shore extensions or jetties require authorisation.
• The footpath on the island is unpaved - suitable footwear recommended.
• Catering on Reiswerder is seasonal: regularly open in the warm season, possibly limited in the low season.
• The island is ideal for walks, observing nature, taking quiet breaks and switching off from the hustle and bustle of the city.