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
- Reach the island by scheduled boat from Steinhude or Mardorf. The ordinary passenger-ship return crossing is €11 adult / €6 ages 4–13 / €2 per dog, paid separately from fortress entry. Fortress tickets are sold on the island; dogs may visit the island but not enter the fortress.
- Admission
- Fortress entry: adult €5; ages 4–13 €2; under 4 free. Boat is separate: scheduled passenger-ship return ticket from Steinhude or Mardorf is €11 adult, €6 ages 4–13, €2 per dog. A different traditional “Auswanderer” trip has separate fare/availability; check the current operator timetable.
- Time needed
- Boat approach takes about 25 minutes; add island exploration and return travel
- Best season
- The published 2026 visitor season runs March 20–October 31. This is the fortress’s operating season, not a claim that one weather season is best.
- Opening hours
- The island fortress is open daily March 20–October 31, 2026. The island closes November 1–March 19 during the lake’s winter navigation ban. Scheduled passenger-ship departures and return times vary by season; check the current timetable before travel.
- Location checked
- 2026-09-23
- Facts checked
- 2026-10-19
Location
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