Spreequelle Kottmar, Germany, Eibau, Saxony, 02739

## Overview The Spreequelle on the Kottmar mountain is one of the most celebrated natural springs in Saxony, Germany. It marks one of the three source springs of the River Spree — the iconic waterway that flows through Berlin before joining the Havel. The spring sits on the slopes of the Kottmar, a prominent basalt hill (583 m) in the Upper Lusatia region near the town of Eibau in the municipality of Kottmar, Saxony (postal code 02739). The spring has been recognized and visited for centuries, and its significance as a headwater of the Spree gives it a special place in German geography and culture. The site features a stone-built spring house with a hot-spring-like architectural surround framing the water outlet — a charming, almost ceremonial structure that reflects the reverence locals have long held for this source. The surrounding area is forested and tranquil, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts exploring the Kottmar trails. While the spring is categorized as a public drinking spring, the water has been reported as not suited for drinking and should be used only for non-drinking purposes. Visitors should not consume the water without independent verification of its quality. ## Directions The spring is located in a wooded area on the Kottmar, so reviewing a map or GPS before setting out is strongly recommended. **GPS Coordinates:** 51.010901, 14.649371 (approximate; the listing GPS is 51.00957, 14.65028) **Address:** 02739 Kottmar, Germany (near Eibau) 1. **Starting point:** Begin at the Netto Marken-Discount store near the crossing of Highway 96 (B96) and Löbauer Straße in Eibau. 2. Head **north** along Löbauer Straße. 3. Take the **second right turn** and continue straight for several kilometers. 4. Watch for a road called **"Wolfsgrubenweg"** on your left. 5. Turn left onto Wolfsgrubenweg. The spring area will be on your **right** side. 6. You may need to park and **walk a short distance** through the forest to reach the spring itself. *Note: The final approach is through woodland, so sturdy footwear is recommended.* ## What to Expect The Spreequelle is set in a peaceful forested landscape on the Kottmar hillside. The spring emerges through a carefully constructed stone surround that gives it a distinctive, almost monumental appearance — reminiscent of a hot spring enclosure. Water flows from the outlet year-round, though flow rates may vary seasonally. The surrounding woods are part of a network of hiking trails on the Kottmar, and the spring is a natural stopping point along several popular routes. The area is quiet and scenic, ideal for a short excursion or a longer hike. **Practical tips:** - The location is in the woods, so plan your visit during daylight hours. Driving to the area and navigating the trails at night is not recommended. - Carry essentials including a first aid kit, water, and a charged phone with offline maps. - The terrain is generally manageable but can be uneven and muddy after rain — wear appropriate footwear. - There are no facilities at the spring itself, so come prepared.