The tradition of fruit growing in this region dates back to the 12th century, when nuns and monks of the Cistercian order established monastery gardens for their own supply, cultivating the first fruit trees and bushes, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Even today, you can explore this history at Kloster Buch near Leisnig.
Strocken is the starting point for the bike route through Gallschütz with its bicycle church and onward to Kloster Buch with the former Cistercian monastery St. Marien, which was first inhabited by monks in 1192. The Kloster Buch e.V. association founded in 1997 breathed new life into the old monastery walls after a long period of decay and offers guests historical tours where you can learn more about the life and work of the monks in spiritual and culinary terms. Also popular is the regional farmers market held on the second Saturdays from March to December. The town of Leisnig enchants with the charm of a medieval-looking old town. The Mildenstein Castle and the boot museum in Döbeln, with the world's largest gaiter boot, are worth a visit. The circular route ends back in Strocken via Polditz and Börtewitz.
