History

History and tradition: the fascinating history of the Zollenspieker Fährhauses.

" The Zollenspieker says hello to you: 'I want to see everyone happy and cheerful!' "

The house used to have an unwritten motto in the hall, framed by four-country motifs.

Zollenspieker Fährhaus

When a new hotel is opened, it’s like a wedding celebration. It’s a significant event that is expected to last for many years. The hotel must have a well-planned concept, comfortable rooms, and satisfied guests to succeed. Something old, blue, and something new is needed to complete the traditional requirements. The historic house and the Elbe are already present, so the only missing piece is something new. The architects have accomplished a remarkable feat by designing the new building. However, the Zollenspieker Fährhaus offers much more than just a hotel. It’s a former customs house with a rich history of over 750 years, making it an authentic monument.

In 2012, right after the newly built Zollenspieker Fährhaus was finished, it was classified and evaluated according to the German Hotel Classification criteria, which it successfully achieved.

During the award ceremony, Ulrike von Albedyll, the managing director of DEHOGA Hamburg, expressed her excitement by stating: “We are delighted to announce the addition of another traditional establishment to Hamburg’s 4-star hotels. The Zollenspieker Fährhaus is a popular tourist destination in the southeast of Hamburg and where visitors can feel comfortable and relaxed.”

Facts and Figures About the Zollenspieker

The foundation walls can be traced back to the year 1252.

Year

1252

As of 1252, a ferry connection has been available between Hoopte in Lower Saxony and Zollenspieker on the opposite side of the Elbe. Today, this ferry is still in operation.

Year

1252

The name "Toln Spieker" was first mentioned in 1460. It was where boatmen and travelers crossing the Elbe River were required to pay customs duty, also known as "Tol." Additionally, the " Spieker " warehouse provided secure storage space for goods.

Year

1460

Destruction by Lüneburg troops and subsequent reconstruction in 1621

Year

1620

1626 / 1627. During the Thirty Years' War, changing troops camped at the Fährhaus.

Year

1626

New construction of the main facade with a stepped gable.

Year

1866

In 1870, Zollenspieker became a tourist attraction. The old customs warehouse became a restaurant with a dance hall.

Year

1870

Construction of the Hauge House.

Year

1880

Extension of the coffee terrace.

Year

1890

In 1920, the Fährhaus managed to avoid a devastating fire in Zollenspieker.

Year

1920

In 1920, the Fährhaus managed to avoid a devastating fire in Zollenspieker.

Year

1945

During the great flood, the Zollenspieker was underwater.

Year

1962

Founding of the Zollenspieker Yacht Club.

Year

1963

The Zollenspieker Fährhaus becomes the property of Bodo Sellhorn and is thoroughly renovated by 1997.

Year

1994

2012 Opening of the 4-star hotel.

Year

2012

Extension and conversion of the kitchen in the traditional house.

Year

2014

A Piece of Hamburg History

The traditional house has been under monument protection for over 765 years, boasting a rich history. Originally built as a customs tower, the building was rebuilt the following year after being destroyed by Lüneburg troops in 1620. In addition to its function as an inn and service area, the traditional house has also served as a customs station and ferry house at one of Hamburg’s oldest Elbe ferry crossings. In 1863, the customs office was abolished, and the traditional house was given a new look with the addition of a dance hall. Ever since the old ferry house has become a popular spot due to its majestic view of the Elbe and the old chestnut trees in its beer garden.

Symbiosis of Old and New

In May 2012, the Zollenspieker Fährhaus underwent a significant expansion, aligning it with modern standards of hotel and gastronomy comfort while preserving its rich history.

Elbe River Kilometer 598.5

Gardens, fields, greenhouses, and the majestic Elbe characterize the scenic character of the Vier- und Marschlande in the southeast of Hamburg. Here, next to a nature reserve and the romantic dyke, is the Zollenspieker Fährhaus at Elbe River kilometer 598.5. Between the 13th and 19th centuries, a customs and ferry station was established to monitor the sovereignty of the Elbe by the respective landlord. The ferry at the pier right in front of our door is still available to take day-trippers across Elbe. Whether viewing from the water or the numerous beautiful vantage points in and around our house, the unique location at the southernmost point of the Hamburg Elbe provides an unparalleled panoramic view of the riverbanks and the Elbe.