Bärenwald Müritz
Stuer, Germany
About Bärenwald Müritz
BAERENWALD Mueritz at Stuer on the Plauer See is western Europe's largest bear sanctuary and a project of the animal welfare foundation VIER PFOTEN. It currently holds 11 brown bears rescued from zoos, circuses and private keeping. Bears that have lived in captivity cannot be released - they are too dependent on people to survive in the wild - so the sanctuary gives them near-natural enclosures where they can roam, withdraw, dig dens, bathe in the pond and go into winter rest.
It is deliberately a single-species site, open from 30 March to 31 October, daily 10:00 to 17:00 with last entry at 16:00, and it runs keeper-led tours and a bear academy.
health and well-being.
It includes giving animals proper food, clean living spaces, medical care, and treating them with respect.
These standards help make sure animals live safe, healthy, and stress-free lives.
Visitors can park in the designated parking area near the entrance of Bärenwald Müritz. Parking is free, making it convenient for families and groups. It is advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a good parking spot.
- The sanctuary offers guided tours that provide in-depth information about the bears and their care.
- There is a bio-bistro on-site that serves fresh, vegan-vegetarian meals made from local ingredients.
- Visitors can purchase souvenirs and sustainable products at the on-site shop.
- Photography is allowed, but it is recommended to be respectful of the animals' space.
- Bärenwald Müritz is home to 70 bears rescued from captivity, including those previously held in restaurants in Albania.
- The sanctuary spans an area of untouched forest, allowing bears to exhibit natural behaviors.
- Over 0+ visitors come annually to see the bears and participate in tours and events.
- In 2022, VIER PFOTEN successfully rescued the last restaurant bear from Albania, marking a significant achievement in animal welfare.