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 | Berlin River Spree, Wannsee and Havel Lakes Reviews | Tips 1 - 10 of 19 |  |  | |  |  | River Spree, Wannsee and Havel Lakes: Turtle Walk #1: Griebnitzsee To Potsdam Sanssouci | Tip Rating:      |  |  | |  |
This is a 6.5 km or 4-mile-walk formerly used by GDR border police along Griebnitzsee to Potsdam (main/central station). The walk can easily be extended to visit the Dutch Quarter (8km / 5 miles) and Sanssouci Palace (11-13 km / 7-8 miles). The walk is easy, just never leave the shore and changes to "get lost" are slim. A map of Potsdam is recommended, though. There are coffeehouses and ice parlours along the way. The walk is quite unique, not only for historical reasons, but also because it guides you along lakes and castles that are part of the UNESCO World Heritage program. Take the S-Bahn railway to Gribnitzsee station, cross the street and your are standing in front of Gribnitzsee. Now turn left and follow the way (pic 1). There are only two occasions where a little care has to be taken not to choose the wrong direction (pic 2+3). Again, just make sure that you stay close to the shore and you cant go wrong. Some parts of the walk are now private property, which is a shame since the treaty between both German countries stated that the way around Griebnitzsee and access to the lake shall remain public domain. Still, owners have to allow the general public pass their soil. There's no reason to return to the S-Bahn station when you see a sign that reads "Privatweg" (private way). Later, the surrounding area becomes more open. You walk through one or two parks but still along water, only that it's now river Havel. Glienicke Bridge, the famous bridge used for exchange of spies during the Cold War, is easily visible. When you see a main street (pic 4) cross your way, you can either go straight and head directly to Potsdam central station where you can take the S-Bahn back to Berlin. Or you go down main street and at crossroads keep a little left. This way will take you to Potsdam's picturesque Dutch Quarter. Have a coffee and consider taking the "full blast" by visiting Sanssouci Palace (pic 5). Entrance to the park is free; voluntary admission fees are welcome.
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