The thin asparagus stalk contains protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, making it very good for you indeed. It can be served with Hollandaise sauce or melted butter and ham. Alternatively, you can let the chefs of Lower Saxony surprise you. The town of Nienburg elects its own Asparagus Queen at the asparagus market to honour this finest of vegetables. Whatever you do, one real "must" is a visit to an asparagus exhibition with the chance to sample some asparagus or perhaps trying your hand at cutting the asparagus yourself! The region around the medieval asparagus-growing town of Burgdorf between the Südheide (south heath) and Hannover is an idyllic area of countryside full of forests and lakes. The town's finest old timber-framed buildings include the town hall, Burgdorfer Schloss and the museum set in a smallholder's house.
You can explore the verdant countryside in the heart of Lower Saxony on a walking or cycling tour, or while enjoying sports or the more leisurely pursuits of angling and berry-picking. Alternatively, you can go mushroom-picking in the sprawling forests or enjoy a walk across the tranquil, idyllic heathland and unspoilt moors, past enchanting ponds, lush meadows and cornfields waving in the wind. Experience Lower Saxony at its best at the "Asparagus Sunday" festival in Lüchow, with a trip on the "Asparagus Express" in Bruchhausen-Vilsen, at the Oldenburger Münsterland region's asparagus feast, the Nienburg asparagus market, or the asparagus market and Asparagus Cup equestrian tournament in Kirchdorf. Even if you are unable to visit during the asparagus season, there are still plenty of sights, attractions and events to make your trip worthwhile. It truly is a region of culinary finesse and natural splendour. Lower Saxony and the Asparagus Route look forward to your visit.