Wilhelmstein Island
Built in 18th-century, the tiny artificial island called Wilhelmstein is located on Lake Steinhude, the largest lake in northwestern Germany. The island is based on piles of stones, that had to be carried there by the local fishermen in their boats. Between 1765 and 1767 it was turned into a military fortress by William, Count of Schaumburg-Lippe. His vision was an impenetrable getaway in his own land. In 1772, the first German submarine, Steinhuder Hecht, was constructed on the island. Wilhelmstein today is a museum and a popular tourist destination Steinhuder Meer. For more information please visit the official website.
Location: Lower Saxony, Germany.
UnusualPlaces Field Notes
- Location
- Wilhelmstein island, Steinhuder Meer, Lower Saxony, Germany
- Coordinates
- 52.460455, 9.307437
- Access
- Boat from Steinhude or Mardorf; fortress tickets sold in island shop/kiosk. Dogs allowed on island but not inside fortress
- Admission
- Fortress adult €5; age 4–13 €2; under 4 free. Boat crossing extra
- Time needed
- Boat approach takes about 25 minutes; add island exploration and return travel
- Opening hours
- 2026 island/fortress season: daily March 20–October 31. Closed November 1–March 19 during the lake’s winter navigation ban
- Location checked
- 2026-09-23
- Facts checked
- 2026-09-17
Location
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