Discover Erfde

Local history, Geest landscape and activities on the Eider come together in Erfde. When planning your trip, it is helpful to consider the differences between central Erfde, the routes through the countryside and the options by the water: the town combines a historic building with various destinations for outdoor activities.

Geest island, moors and wetlands

Erfde lies on a Geest island formed by an ancient moraine. The surrounding area is characterised by numerous moors and wetlands. In addition to the options in town, visitors planning a stay have a reason to make the landscape part of their trip. In Bargen, extensive walking and riding trails form a circular route through the countryside. They offer a way to explore the area on foot or on horseback, without requiring a particular duration or level of difficulty.

Church and culture in Erfde

St. Mary Magdalene’s Church stands in central Erfde. The Romanesque fieldstone church dates from the 12th century and houses a votive ship commemorating shipping on the Eider. The building thus connects local history with a theme that can also be found elsewhere in the surrounding area. In Bargen, a district of Erfde, the Stapelholm-Huus houses a museum and a weaving room. Groups are advised to book in advance. The Stapelholm-Huus information point also offers a selection of tourist brochures and an adjoining coworking area. The brochure selection and the availability of the coworking area may change; check in advance if needed.

Routes and options by the water

The options around the Eider vary considerably: the Bargen ferry connects Erfde-Bargen and Delve-Schwienhusen across the river. It carries passengers with or without bicycles and is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. Check the current operating status before travelling.

Bargen bathing area is an unsupervised natural swimming spot on the Eider. Facilities include a sunbathing lawn, play equipment for children and sanitary facilities. As swimming conditions and safety measures may change, check them before visiting. Facilities at the site may also change.

Erfde outdoor pool has a pool area of 1,000 square metres, with diving, play and swimming areas. There is a separate pool with a small slide for young children; the facilities also include water toys, a sandpit and a playhouse. Swimming and playing at the outdoor pool are therefore quite different from visiting the unsupervised bathing area by the river.

Bargen sports boat harbour has 72 berths, a landing stage for passenger ships and a wastewater pumping station. Right next to it, the Bargen canoe rest area offers a canoe launch site and places to rest. The locations mentioned cater to different interests on the water: swimming, a trip across the Eider, canoeing or using the harbour.

Discover more destinations: Klein Bennebek, Börm, Süderstapel, Bergenhusen, Wohlde, Norderstapel, Tetenhusen, Dörpstedt.

View the main travel overview: Kropp-Stapelholm.