The Waterworks

Reviewed by Emily McDonnell

Completely unique design apartments in a former water and electricity utility, boasting views of lake Scharmützelsee and Brandenburg forest

Type:

Self-catering apartments

Costs:

From €140

Sleeps:

Six apartments for 2-6

Where?

Bad Saarow, 1 hour from central Berlin

What?

If someone told you to picture an electricity utility building, we can guarantee that you wouldn’t picture The Waterworks, a stunningly renovated former water and electricity utility in Brandenburg’s beautiful Scharmützelsee region. The building dates from 1908, and was saved from ruin by couple Tim and Heike, and their friend Wolfgang, back in 2008. Tim had already made a name for himself in the architecture space as a lover of unique buildings, such as lighthouses, which he transforms into creative places to stay.

The Waterworks is no exception: the six apartments are full of striking design pieces that set off the original, industrial features of the building. The the E-Werk Loft, where former transformers and generators for the energy supply were found, boasts a free-floating bed and huge iron fireplace. The Wasserturm is perhaps one of the most romantic retreats we’ve come across, thanks to its four floors, each featuring ultimate indulgence: a circular bed, a whirlpool bath, a hanging fireplace and an observation tower from where you can watch the stars. This hideout is special, and we challenge you to not feel totally relaxed after a stay here.

Why?

I fell in love because...

The building is totally unique and has been lovingly renovated with modern decor that highlights the structural beauty of the property
You’re located next to Scharmützelsee, one of the region’s most beloved lakes

You must...

Visit the SaarowTherme, you get free entry when staying at Wasserwerk Bad Saarow, and unwind in the many saunas and heated pools
Take a long stroll around Großer Glubigsee, a crystal clear lake surrounded by forest and with sandy beaches

You might dislike...

There’s a final cleaning charge that’s not included in the daily rates
Next to the property is a car park, and while convenient, it’s not the most beautiful to look at

No items found.

Wasserwerks Bad Saarow

Who?

Introducing Tim!

“I’ve fallen in love with Germany’s unique buildings, and take great pleasure in renovating them so others can fall in love, too.”

I love…

“The location is just wow! You’re just a few steps to the beautiful Scharmützelsee, right next door to the Saarow Therme, and there are lots of good restaurants around you, plus you’re staying in the most beautiful house of all!”

Tim’s insider tips

Soak up the special ambience of the building, either in your rooms or the garden
Explore the Scharmützelsee region, it’s truly stunning - for instance, take a walk through the gently rolling Rauen Hills where you’ll find an observation tower or do some water sports on the lake
You can’t not spend a day at the Saarow Therme! There are a range of saunas - including a cinema sauna!
Bring a good book, so you can curl up and read in front of the big fireplace

What people
are saying.

"We will remember the days at the waterworks for a long time and would like to come back some time."

Inga

"My daughter and I stayed for three days in the machine loft and we would love to come back here every year: a wonderful place to relax."

Barbara

The essentials.

Sleeping arrangements: There are six apartments that sleep from 2 to 6 people; each is unique is layout and decor.
Bathroom set up: All apartments have their own bathrooms; toiletries are included, and there’s are slippers you can use.
Food: Breakfast can be ordered (€15 per person), and is a delicious mix of local produce. Each apartment has its own kitchen, and there are lots of restaurants within walking distance.
For families: The Meisterwohnung and Direktorenwohnung are best suited for those with kids, as they have two separate bedrooms plus sofa beds. Both have outdoor space; the Meisterwohnung is on the ground floor and opens into the garden.
On-site equipment: There are a few selected books about Bad Saarow, as well as TV sets with Netflix.
Optional extras: Breakfast isn’t included in the price.
Help: There is onsite help, should you need it.
Remember to pack: Your swimwear! You’ll need it for the therme or a swim in the lake!
Pets: Dogs are welcome in the Direktorenwohnung and the Maschinen-Loft.‍
Sustainability: The breakfast is made with produce that were in plastic-free packaging, the building is heated using district heating (Fernwärme Heizung), and there are e-charging station for bicycles. Plus the whole building was saved from repair, meaning saved from being demolished and something new built with new materials.

Where?

The Waterworks are located in Bad Saarow, near the expansive Scharmützelsee.

It's just over an hour away from Berlin with a car.

You can get here easily with public transport: get the train to Fürstenwalde(Spree), and then it's a short bus trip.