Which lakes, forests, and rivers surround Berlin?

Berlin is situated within a landscape defined by an extensive belt of forest-rimmed lakes and glacial terrain. Approximately one-third of the Greater Berlin area is covered by sandy pine and mixed birch forests, lakes, and beaches.1

The city's primary waterways include:

• Spree River: This river flows through the center of Berlin in several branches and joins the Havel River at Spandau.21
• Havel River: Located to the west of the city, the Havel traverses a chain of lakes and meets the Spree at Spandau.13
• Dahme River: This river contributes to the network of lakes located to the southeast of the city.1

These rivers and their associated lake systems are integral to the geography of the region, which is characterized by sandy glacial soil.1