The Eilenriede is a 640-hectare protected urban forest in Hanover, Germany. It is located east of the city center and is divided into a northern part in the Zoo district and a southern part in the Kleefeld district. The forest has a long history, dating back to the Middle Ages, and was once part of a larger forest called the Nordwald. The name 'Eilenriede' is derived from the German words for 'alder tree' and 'swampy ground'. The forest was gifted to the city of Hanover in 1371 and has been managed and protected by the city ever since. Today, the Eilenriede is a popular recreational area for families, with many walking and cycling paths, as well as a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the forest's history and ecology on the 500-meter-long Waldgeschichtspfad trail, which features information boards and interactive exhibits. The forest is also home to several historic landmarks, including the remains of a medieval landwehr, a system of fortifications and watchtowers that once protected the city
Plan your family visit to the Eilenriede with these blog insights 👇

Activities: We went to the Eilenriede, Hannover's city forest. We saw joggers, some walkers, and a heron at the big pond. Then it was time for the playground. On the side facing the city, there are two playgrounds. The Sonnenspielplatz was especially nice
Highlights: Franka had no limits on the playground. She loved the slide and the shapes in the sand. The Sonnenspielplatz was situated in the shade between the trees and offered something for every age ✨