The best walks and hikes around Machnower Lake
4.6
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51,673
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1,588
hikes
Hiking around Machnower Lake, located southwest of Berlin, offers diverse natural features and historical attractions. The region is characterized by panoramic lake views, extensive forested paths, and the presence of the Teltow Canal. Hikers can explore the Bäketal Nature Reserve and encounter varied flora and fauna within this landscape. The terrain includes remote paths, open fields, and small wooded hills, making it suitable for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Machnower Lake
- The most popular hiking route is Machnower Lake – Kleinmachnow Lock loop from Kleinmachnow, a 4.5 miles (7.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete, offering views of the lake and the historic lock.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Machnower Lake – Kleinmachnow Lock loop from Kleinmachnow, an easy 3.8 miles (6.2 km) path. This route combines natural lake scenery with glimpses of local historical elements.
- Local hikers also love the Teltow Canal at Nathan Bridge – Kleinmachnow Lock loop from Kleinmachnow, a 6.8 miles (11.0 km) trail leading through areas near the Teltow Canal and the lake, often completed in about 2 hours 47 minutes.
- Hiking around Machnower Lake is defined by panoramic lake views, forested paths, and the Teltow Canal. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and some more challenging routes.
- The routes in Machnower Lake are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10,000 reviews. More than 50,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Machnower Lake's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
7
hikers
3.45km
00:53
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(166)
608
hikers
6.60km
01:42
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(13)
31
hikers
10.6km
02:44
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(35)
149
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Manzels had one son, Gerhard Ludwig. He was an assistant director to the film director Friedrich Wilhelm Murnau, who was laid to rest here. From this acquaintance, Manzel's father created the bust of Murnau for his grave wall in 1932, which can still be seen there today.
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The wooden cemetery chapel, modeled on Norwegian stave churches, was built between 1908 and 1911 according to plans by church architect Gustav Werner. Its well-known model is the Wang Church in the Giant Mountains. The wooden interior, the sparsely painted decoration, the colorful Art Nouveau stained-glass windows, and the organ by Wilhelm Sauer have been preserved in their original condition. Gustav Werner, born in 1859, was buried in 1917 opposite his building in the chapel forecourt. The chapel now hosts not only funeral services and church services, but also occasional musical events.
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Directly in the entrance area of the Südwestkirchhof Stahnsdorf cemetery stands the masterpiece of Berlin sculptor Ludwig Manzel: a monumental marble relief of Christ. 23 life-size figures (the elderly, the sick, the suffering, the blind, a widower with children, and the sinner) turn from both sides toward Jesus Christ, seated in the center, from whom they hope for salvation. The text from the Gospel of Matthew is fitting: "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." Christ here is not the "universally pleasing blessing," but rather one recognizes his compassion for the suffering. They are almost naked to avoid any class distinction. The artist Ludwig Manzel died on November 20, 1936, and found his final resting place close to his greatest life's work. In contrast, however, his grave is simple. It stands just a few meters across the main path. Source: https://www.tagesspiegel.de/potsdam/potsdam-mittelmark/inspirationen-auf-einem-friedhof-in-paris-7791865.html
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For anyone who likes the architectural uniqueness of a Norwegian-style cemetery chapel so much that they'd like to learn a little more about the construction of stave churches, I can recommend a segment from the television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity." It features the Urnes Stave Church in Norway. It is the oldest of its kind and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The film can be viewed in the ARD media library via the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/urnes-stabkirche-von-urnes-norwegen-folge-312/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS82ODQzNzM2
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Guided tours of the very large cemetery are also available by bike https://www.suedwestkirchhof.de/veranstaltungen.html
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A new S-Bahn station is to be built east of Sputendorfer Straße. This will make Stahnsdorf the new terminus of the S-Bahn line extended from Teltow. In the future, S-Bahn trains will depart from here every 10 minutes to central Berlin. A central platform with two tracks is planned. A storage facility with four tracks is planned northeast of the new station. Further information on the S-Bahn connection, the surrounding area, and the new town center can be found at: https://www.stahnsdorf.de/sbahn.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Machnower Lake?
There are over 1,500 hiking routes recorded around Machnower Lake on komoot, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 1,000 easy routes and over 400 moderate trails.
What is the general difficulty level of hikes around Machnower Lake?
The hiking trails around Machnower Lake are generally considered easy, making them accessible for various fitness levels. Many paths are well-maintained and suitable for a relaxed walk. While most routes are easy, there are also moderate options available for those seeking a bit more challenge.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Machnower Lake?
Yes, many of the routes around Machnower Lake are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Teltow Canal at Nathan Bridge – Kleinmachnow Lock loop from Kleinmachnow, which offers a moderate 11 km experience.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I see while hiking around Machnower Lake?
The area is rich in both natural beauty and historical points of interest. You can explore the listed Kleinmachnow Village Church, the historic Kleinmachnower Lock on the Teltow Canal, and the scenic Machnower See North Shore. Don't miss the Old Forester's House and the impressive old tree population along the Zehlendorfer Damm.
Are the hiking trails around Machnower Lake suitable for families with children?
Absolutely. The paths are mostly easy to walk, and the shorter distances, such as a 4 km circular route taking about an hour, are ideal for families. The blend of tranquil nature and historical sights offers an engaging experience for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the trails around Machnower Lake?
Yes, the natural environment with its forested paths and lake views is generally suitable for dog walking. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like Bäketal, and to be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
Where can I park when visiting Machnower Lake for a hike?
While specific parking lots aren't detailed, the area is well-developed for visitors. Look for designated parking areas near popular starting points like the Kleinmachnower Lock or in the vicinity of Kleinmachnow village. Public transport access is also a convenient option.
How can I reach the hiking trails around Machnower Lake by public transport?
The Machnower Lake area is well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach the starting points of many hikes. The Kleinmachnower Lock, a significant starting point, is accessible via local bus routes from nearby train stations, offering a convenient way to begin your adventure.
What is the best time of year to go hiking around Machnower Lake?
Machnower Lake offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora and nesting nightingales, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer is perfect for enjoying the lake views, and even winter walks can be serene, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments along the hiking routes?
Yes, there are options for refreshments. The region has traces of the old manor village Kleinmachnow, which has developed into a popular residential area. You can find a water mill that now functions as a restaurant by turning right at Zehlendorfer Damm, offering a pleasant stop for a meal or drink.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the Machnower Lake area?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 10,000 reviews. Hikers particularly praise the panoramic lake views, the peaceful forested paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical attractions like the Kleinmachnower Lock and the old village church.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Machnower Lake?
You can expect diverse natural features, including magnificent panoramic views over Machnower See, extensive forested areas with impressive old trees, and the tranquil Bäketal Nature Reserve. The Teltow Canal also adds another water-based element, with paths running alongside it, creating a varied landscape.
Most popular routes around Machnower Lake
Most popular attractions around Machnower Lake
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