Müritz Water Tower

Reviewed by Emily McDonnell

A striking, 120-year-old water tower boasting 4 industrial-chic apartments at the water’s edge in Germany’s Lake District

Type:

Self-catering rental

Costs:

From €75

Sleeps:

Four apartments for 2-6 (whole house rental available for up to 14)

Where?

Müritz National Park, 2h 10 from central Berlin

What?

This listed landmark from 1897 once provided water from the surrounding lakes to the nearby Mecklenburg town of Waren/Müritz, and it’s since found a new lease of life. The 35-meter-high, red-brick tower stands majestically atop a wooded hill at the edge of the Müritz National Park. It was saved from ruin by a cooperative who lovingly restored the building, transforming it into four sleek, modern apartments. Bold colour schemes make the quaint circular windows pop, while exposed wrought-iron pipes stand boldly alongside elegant white, wooden furniture.

The Water Tower is ideal for those in search of romantic respite, while friends and families will also find total escapism. Take to the lakes by boat, hike through the forests or unwind in the nearby spa before cosying up back at the tower to watch for shooting stars from your porthole-style window. I don’t know what’s more breathtaking, the Lake District or the Water Tower, either way, a stay here is a must.

Why?

I fell in love because...

The effortless blend of modern design with old industrial features
The surrounds are stunning: you’re in a forest overlooking two lakes

You must...

Go for a dip in one of the many lakes on your doorstep, wild swimming doesn’t get better than this
Get a Fisch-Brötchen (fish sandwich) from the Müritz-Fischer sales point, its an institution

You might dislike...

In high season (June-September) there’s a 4-night-minimum stay
The staircase to the apartments is quite steep and narrow, but the views are well worth the climb

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Who?

Introducing the cooperative!

“Life here is about the simple pleasures: lazing by the lake, listening to the wind in the treetops, and watching the stars glint in the night’s sky as bats dart by. Each of us comes here to switch off, and we couldn’t imagine a better weekend escape.”

The co-op’s insider tips

You can’t stay here and not explore the Müritz National Park, famous for all its lakes: head out on foot, by bike (rental available in Müritz) or by boat
Embrace German coffee and cake culture, and head to Dat Tortenhus to try their delicious homemade baked goods
Treat yourself to a good bottle of wine at Wine Tango, the atmosphere is great!
Go on a day trip to the nearby town Güstrow, and check out the Renaissance castle: it’s picture-perfect!

What people
are saying.

“Great place, architecturally appealing and well thought through.”

— Alexander

“A beautiful water tower, which is lovingly cherished and cared for, in the forest adjacent to the spa park. It’s perfectly located, too, in the forest just a leisurely distance from the hustle and bustle of Müritz.”

— Berhard

The essentials.

Sleeping arrangements: There are 4 apartments: Hagenow (double), Kargow (double), Güstrow (double + sofa bed), and Pankow (2 doubles + 1 bunk bed).
Bathroom set up: Each apartment has its own bathroom with a shower.
Food: All apartments have cooking facilities, including fridges and hobs, as well as oil, salt and pepper. Hagenow has a microwave, and Kargow, Güstrow and Pankow have an oven. Fischers Küche, Leddermann and Moments all come as recommended restaurants, and there are bakeries and supermarkets within walking distance.
For families: Kids will love the Water Tower, but given the steep staircase and direct access to the lake, you’ll need to keep an eye on little ones. Two high chairs and two travel beds can be provided on request.
On-site equipment: There are lots of board games and books, as well as candles and PAL radios, for cosy evenings in the apartment.
Optional extras:
Help: The co-op’s caretaker lives nearby and is always on hand should you need help.
Remember to pack: Tea and coffee, a laptop or tablet if you want to watch movies, and slippers.
Pets: Dogs are allowed in the ground-floor apartment Hagenow only.
Sustainability: All wall surfaces are made from organic materials (loam and wood), there are composting boxes in the garden, and nesting boxes for Jackdaws under the roof

Where?

Müritz Water Tower is located both at the edge of Müritz National Park, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and the town of Waren/Müritz, overlooking two lakes.

You can reach the Water Tower in just under 2 hours with a car from Berlin and can park on site.

You can get a direct train to Waren/Müritz station from Berlin; from there, it’s a 35-minute walk(!) or a 10-minute taxi ride.