4.3
(391)
6,072
runners
223
runs
Jogging routes around Höftsee are set within the picturesque Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, characterized by numerous lakes, gentle hills, and extensive beech forests. The region offers diverse natural landscapes, including tranquil lakefront views and paths along the Schwentine River, which connects Höftsee to other larger lakes. Joggers can expect varied terrain, from easy lakeside paths to more challenging routes with elevation changes through natural forests, providing a restorative backdrop for physical activity.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.8
(12)
247
runners
11.3km
01:20
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
102
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
5.0
(5)
95
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(16)
87
runners
8.62km
00:58
80m
80m
Hard run. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.0
(4)
70
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Discover the Holstein Switzerland and enjoy your hike along the circular routes Kellersee, Plöner Seen and Segeberger Flüsse und Seen. Look out for our 20 stamp boxes and take a short break there. In the stamp boxes you will find a stamp with a motif from the Holstein Switzerland and a number as well as a stamp pad. Press the stamp onto the correspondingly numbered field in your hiking pass and continue to the next stamp box.
7
0
The Schwentine River connects numerous lakes in the Holstein Switzerland region, here Lake Plön with Lake Höftsee.
1
0
The feeling: The scenery conveys a deep sense of peace and serenity. It is a moment in which the picturesque landscape of the lake district is particularly striking, and one can enjoy the silence far removed from the hustle and bustle.
10
1
The core of today's Prince's House was built around 1750 according to plans by the court architect Johann Gottfried Rosenberg as a private garden pavilion for Duke Friedrich Carl of Plön. ... Source: http://www.prinzenhausploen.de/
3
0
The lake, situated in a hilly landscape, is bordered by extensively managed grassland to the north and east, a mixed forest to the southeast, an allotment garden and a cemetery on the southern shore, as well as private gardens, a fishing club on the western shore, and a path running directly along the lake for approximately 800 meters. West of the cemetery is a large, unsupervised bathing meadow, and another bathing area can be found in the forest. Furthermore, it has three small, wooded islands (from west to east: Kleiner Warder, Mittelster Warder, Großer Warder). The lake level fluctuates between a maximum of 22.45 meters above sea level in spring and a minimum of 22.27 meters above sea level in late summer (data from 2001). During the winter months, Schöhsee is of regional importance for several waterfowl species, particularly for up to 2,000 tufted ducks. Furthermore, the lake is part of the hunting grounds of white-tailed eagles and a breeding ground for oystercatchers, great crested grebes, kingfishers, common goldeneyes, and many other waterfowl species. Due to the relatively small catchment area resulting from the lake's low nutrient content, especially nitrogen and phosphorus, and the consequently limited algae growth, Lake Schöhsee, with a summer visibility of over 3.5 meters, is one of the clearest lakes in Schleswig-Holstein. The use of motorboats and sailboats on the lake is generally prohibited, while canoes, rowboats, and paddleboats may use it with permission obtained from the angling club. The Max Planck Institute for Limnology (since April 2007, the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology), which existed under this name until 2007 and is located on the shore of Lake Schöhsee, studied, among other things, the inland water ecosystem there. Since the lake, which is currently in good ecological condition, particularly with regard to underwater fauna and vegetation, and has only a limited capacity for regeneration due to the relatively long exchange time, it requires strict protection to maintain this condition. Any potential threat would arise from the intensification of agriculture and the use of fertilizers on fields or in gardens.
12
2
Autumn at Schöhsee in Plön (Holstein Switzerland) is known for its particularly beautiful and peaceful atmosphere.
12
0
Evening atmosphere at Lake Schöhsee. Situated in a hilly landscape, the lake is bordered by extensively managed grassland to the north and east, a mixed forest to the southeast, an allotment garden and a cemetery on the southern shore, as well as private gardens, a fishing club on the western shore, and a path that runs directly along the lake for approximately 800 meters. West of the cemetery is a large, unguarded bathing area, and another bathing area can be found in the forest.
14
0
Swimming area on the Großer Plöner See (Great Plön Lake) with a sandy beach, playground, and sunbathing lawn. The long, sandy beach is the ideal swimming spot for families. A sunbathing lawn, benches, a hammock, a slide, mini-golf, and a small playground invite you to linger. The water is gently sloping and marked with a non-swimmer's boundary. Shady spots and a jetty into the water are available, as are changing facilities and restrooms.
11
4
There are over 220 running routes available around Höftsee, offering a wide variety of options for different fitness levels. These trails are set within the picturesque Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, providing diverse landscapes for your run.
The running trails near Höftsee offer a diverse range of terrain. You can expect tranquil lakeside paths, routes along the Schwentine River, and trails winding through extensive beech forests. The region is characterized by gentle hills, so some routes will include elevation changes, providing a varied and engaging experience for runners.
Yes, many of the running routes around Höftsee are loops, making them convenient for starting and ending your run at the same point. For example, the popular View of Plön – Vierer Lake loop offers scenic views over 11.3 km.
While running near Höftsee, you can encounter several interesting sights. The area is known for its beautiful lakefront scenery and connections to the Schwentine River system. You might pass by a unique watermill that utilizes the drop between Höftsee and the Großer Plöner See. Additionally, you can find viewpoints like the Bench with a view of Behlersee and Höftsee, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding lakes.
Yes, the Höftsee area offers a selection of easy running routes that are suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed pace. These trails often feature less challenging terrain and provide opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park together.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the running trails around Höftsee, especially within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature protection areas or during wildlife breeding seasons, and to respect local signage regarding pet regulations.
The running routes around Höftsee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Runners often praise the tranquil lakefronts, the varied landscapes including river paths and natural forests, and the restorative backdrop for physical activity. The diverse network of trails caters to various ability levels, making it a favorite among local runners.
While some routes, especially those connecting to larger lakes or towns, can be popular, the extensive network of trails within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park allows for finding quieter paths. Exploring routes slightly off the main lakefronts or venturing deeper into the forests can offer a more peaceful running experience away from the crowds.
The best time of year for running around Höftsee is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the natural landscapes of Holstein Switzerland are at their most vibrant. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Winter running is also possible, but trails may be icy or muddy, so appropriate gear is recommended.
Yes, Höftsee is connected to the Schwentine River system, and there are routes that follow its course. A notable option is the View of the Schwentine – Princes' Palace, Plön loop, which is a moderate 13.6 km path that follows the river and passes by historical landmarks, offering a unique blend of nature and culture.
Absolutely. Höftsee's proximity to the Großer Plöner See means that several running routes offer expansive views of this large lake. For instance, the Great Plöner Lake – View of Lake Plön (Großer Plöner See) loop is an 8.6 km trail that leads through varied landscapes with stunning vistas of the lake.
While specific cafes directly on the immediate Höftsee running paths might be limited, the nearby town of Plön offers various amenities, including cafes and restaurants, which can be easily accessed after your run. The broader Plön region is well-equipped for outdoor enthusiasts, so you'll find options for refreshments within a short distance.


Browse the best Running Trails & Routes in other regions.