Hanseatic
modern
A city on the water
Surrounded by water
Water is everywhere in Stade. This has always had and continues to have a significant influence on life, business and tourism in the Hanseatic city. The narrow streets of the historic town are characterised by its maritime charm – on some days a “stiff breeze” blows like on the North Sea and the ebb and flow of the tide influence the hustle and bustle in Stade’s harbours. Its location on the Schwinge and Elbe rivers offers excellent conditions for excursions on the water and a wide range of water sports, making the town an ideal destination for skippers.
Schwinge & Elbe
Stade is close to the river Elbe, which flows straight towards the North Sea from here. The river Schwinge even flows through the city, giving the historic town centre a special maritime charm. The Schwingetal valley is characterised by green expanses and provides a stunning backdrop for unique nature excursions.
On the banks of the river Elbe, the landscape is dominated by green dykes, sheep peacefully grazing, sweeping views to the far shore and, unmistakably for the Altes Land region, the orchards.
The historic town surrounded by the river Burggraben
The historic town centre is surrounded by the ramparts and the river Burggraben. The former moat now contributes greatly to the charm of the town. Idyllic parks and cosy spots by the water invite you to rest and relax. The shallow water of Burggraben also offers ideal conditions for a trip in a canoe, kayak or on a SUP board. Stade’s old town centre can be discovered from the water during a trip on the Fleetkahn (canal boat) on the Burggraben.
Dine & unwind at the Hanseatic harbour
The Fischmarkt at the historic Hanseatic harbour is appropriately referred to as “Stade’s living room”. A variety of restaurants and cafés have set up shop in this homely spot. Cosy seats right on the quay wall inspire maritime dreams. Especially in summer, it is the perfect place to unwind. A large selection of traditional and modern, regional and exotic, sweet and savoury, small and large specialities will cater to every taste and appetite.
Stade's harbours - an oasis for skippers
After an eventful trip on the river Elbe, Stade is the perfect place to cast anchor and relax. Between Stadersand, where the Schwinge flows into the Elbe, and Stade’s historic town centre, there are four marinas where skippers may moor their boats.
The Stadthafen harbour is located in the heart of the old town and offers great views of the charming cityscape. The Motor- und Yachtclub Stade and SC Diamant harbours downstream are somewhat quieter. From the sailing club, you can reach the river Elbe in no time.
Permanent guests in the Stadthafen harbour
The maritime regulars at Stade’s Stadthafen harbour have become “part of the furniture”, so to speak. The museum ship Greundiek, maritime ambassador of the Hanseatic city of Stade, is permanently moored on the town side of the harbour basin. Regularly, cultural events are organised on board the coaster. Additionally, the Greundiek is a swimming museum that can be toured and, despite her advanced age, she still sets sail on excursions.
The “Wilhelmine” and the “Heinrich” combine history and modernity perfectly as the two over 100-year-old barges are moored directly in front of the modern Stade Hafencity.
Maritime Experiences
Water enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Stade. In recent years, the range of maritime excursions and activities has been continuously expanded.
Guests can choose between a trip on the historic Fleetkahn around the town centre or an outing on the river Elbe on the MS Greundiek or the Wilhelmine. A trip on the flat-bottomed boat Tidenkieker invites you to experience extraordinary moments in nature, while the BBQ donut makes for a special treat during a trip on the picturesque river Burggraben.
Watersports
Stade is also a well-known destination for active holidays. Water sports enthusiasts can look forward to a wide range of activities here. The waters of the river Schwinge above the town harbour make for a wonderful setting for canoe, kayak or stand-up paddle board trips. After a pleasant tour along the ramparts, you can reach the Schwinge meadows from the Holzhafen harbour and enjoy the natural landscape. Those who prefer to stay on land can enjoy going fishing. For something new, try yoga by the water or – particularly challenging – on a SUP board.
Nearby beaches
The location on the rivers Schwinge and Elbe brings with it a scenic phenomenon that puts a smile on most visitors’ faces: white sandy beaches and places to relax by the water. And not just one, but a handful. At StadeBeach, you can enjoy refreshing drinks while soaking up the summer sun on the terrace right by the Holzhafen harbour. In Bassenfleth in the Altes Land region, the long, white Elbe beach will make you feel like you’re in the Carribean. The beach in Abbenfleth, not far from the Grauerort fortress, is a hidden gem. A little further in the direction of Cuxhaven is the next beach paradise – the Elbe beach on the island of Krautsand. Here you will find a white sandy beach, a seperate stretch of beach for dogs and their owners and a beach bar with refreshing drinks and delicious food.
Water tourism concept
With the water tourism concept, the Hanseatic City of Stade and STADE Marketing und Tourismus GmbH have set out to create a range of infrastructure measures to enable guests and locals to experience the numerous activities along and around the river Schwinge.
The funding project aims at strengthening Stade’s identity as a city on the water and promoting Stade and the region as a water tourism destination. The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund.
