Educational Leave in Medingen: Monastic Charm, Nature, and a Dash of Adventure
Educational leave is the perfect opportunity to fill your mind with new knowledge while letting your soul unwind. My most recent educational trip took me to the charming village of Medingen near Bad Bevensen—a place that turned out to be surprisingly versatile, offering everything from idyllic hiking trails to unexpected train adventures. Here, historical settings, natural experiences, and a sense of community blended into an unforgettable week.
Kloster Medingen: Tranquility and History at Your Doorstep
Our accommodation was located right next to Kloster Medingen, a true historical gem. This impressive building, with its magnificent architecture and serene atmosphere, provided a wonderful backdrop for the week of learning. Between seminars, I often strolled through the monastery garden, feeling the centuries of history that seemed to live within its ancient walls.
It was nearly impossible not to pause and soak in the peaceful vibe. Some of us even found time to visit the monastery church or learn a little about the site’s rich history, which dates back to the 13th century.
Culinary Delights and an Evening of Music
In addition to food for thought, our palates were also well taken care of. The cuisine was a real hidden gem! Whether hearty dishes or light vegetarian options, the meals were so delicious they became a topic of conversation during every break.
A special highlight was the evening spent in the cozy cellar bar of our accommodation. With refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere, someone picked up a guitar—and soon, the mood soared with songs from the 70s and 80s. We sang, laughed, and had great conversations. That evening brought us all closer together, adding a personal touch to the educational trip.
Learning and Hiking: Perfect Lunch Breaks
While the course filled my mind with knowledge during the day, the lunch breaks invited me to explore the surrounding nature. The No. 2 hiking trail through the Staatsforst Rießel forest was a standout experience. The path meandered idyllically along the Ilmenau River, accompanied by the gentle sound of flowing water and a fresh breeze of pure nature. The destination was the historic Alte Mühle (Old Mill) in Medingen—a place straight out of a postcard. Alternatively, one could stroll into Bad Bevensen, where the Kurpark offered a true oasis of relaxation.
The Kurpark and the “Sonnenfalle”
The Kurpark isn’t just expansive—it’s an experience. While exploring, I discovered the Sonnenfalle (Suntrap)—a building that truly lives up to its name. Whether in summer or winter, you can bask in its warmth. With its wheelchair-accessible design, the space is open to everyone. Holding a cup of tea in hand, soaking in the sunlight, time seemed to stand still—at least until the next course session.
A Record in Boules?
Who would have thought? Bad Bevensen once earned a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records—for endurance boules! Back in 2006, the local boules enthusiasts managed a marathon game lasting 40 hours and 9 minutes. Although this record was later surpassed (now held by a Belgian team at 52 hours), it’s still an impressive feather in Bad Bevensen’s cap.
Wellness Evening at the Jod-Sole-Therme
Another highlight was our visit to the Jod-Sole-Therme. After a day full of learning and hiking, alternating between steamy saunas and warm pools felt like a ticket to paradise. It was the perfect way to unwind—and to exchange anecdotes about the course and surroundings with fellow participants.
The Journey Back: A Mini Adventure
The educational leave concluded with an ending that was a bit… well, unexpected. On the train ride home, nearly all the toilets suddenly went out of order, accompanied by the announcement: “Due to water shortage.” While some passengers chuckled at the irony of the moment, this final twist proved yet again that improvisation is key. After all the peace and relaxation in Medingen, this train ride brought back a sense of adventure.
Conclusion: Educational Leave for the Soul
Medingen and Bad Bevensen offer not just an inspiring learning environment but also the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether it’s hiking trails, wellness experiences, or the warm comfort of the Sonnenfalle in the Kurpark, those who choose this destination for their educational leave will recharge both mind and body. Not even a water shortage can spoil the experience—it simply adds a humorous touch to the finale.
