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Germany
Schleswig-Holstein
Ostholstein

Holstein Switzerland

Top 20 Lakes in Holstein Switzerland

Lakes in Holstein Switzerland define a region in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and over 200 clear lakes. This designated nature park is situated between Kiel and Lübeck. The area is known for its diverse waterscapes and numerous recreational activities. It offers a landscape reminiscent of a Swiss setting.

Best lakes in Holstein Switzerland

  • The most popular lakes include Eutin Castle, a castle that serves as the cultural center and nucleus of the town. It is one of the most important secular court buildings in Schleswig-Holstein.
  • Another must-see spot is Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), an island in the Great Plön Lake. This island is known for its cormorant colonies and vegetation.
  • Visitors also love Kellersee Pier, a popular spot on the Kellersee. This pier offers views and seating along the shore.
  • Holstein Switzerland is known for large lakes, interconnected lakes, and lakes with promenades. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore.
  • The lakes in Holstein Switzerland are appreciated by the komoot community. With over 2400 upvotes and 350 photos, the komoot community has documented many routes and spots.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge

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You drive on the eastern shore through a beautiful embankment to Plön. Here and there, it gives a view of the lake and the city still lying in the Ferrne.

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Dieksee Promenade

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The Dieksee promenade takes you from the Malente Wildlife Park to the Diekseeholm forest.

The Dieksee promenade runs along the western shore of the 368-hectare Dieksee lake. Here you will find many of Malente's hotels, guesthouses, and health clinics.
Redesigned in 2007, the promenade consists partly of paved stone slabs and partly of hard-packed sand. During the construction work, a floating pontoon for events was installed near the pier for the 5-Lakes Cruise and Kellersee Cruise. An additional wooden walkway was also added to the promenade. Terraced platforms have been integrated along the embankment, offering a particularly beautiful view of the Dieksee.

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Eutin Castle

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Eutin Castle in Eutin, East Holstein, is the cultural center and nucleus of the town. Along with Gottorf Castle and Glücksburg Castle, it is one of the most important secular court buildings in Schleswig-Holstein. The four-winged complex originated from a medieval castle and was expanded into a royal residence over several centuries.

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In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known example of the destructive effect of cormorant droppings, which virtually destroy vegetation. There was also a cormorant colony on an island in Lake Selent, which was later abandoned and subsequently recovered.

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From here you can wonderfully see the Plön Castle. Ideal to take a break. A park bench is also available. Idyllic: A small stream flows here into the great Plöner See. You have to take the small path down to the water from the main path.

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Tips from the Community

Rüdiger M
June 17, 2025, Dieksee Promenade

The Canada goose is a species of bird in the anatidae family and is considered the most common goose in the world. Its native range is North America. It is a characteristic lowland bird there, breeding on inland lakes in prairie and agricultural areas.

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The Dieksee promenade takes you from the Malente Wildlife Park to the Diekseeholm forest. The Dieksee promenade runs along the western shore of the 368-hectare Dieksee lake. Here you will find many of Malente's hotels, guesthouses, and health clinics. Redesigned in 2007, the promenade consists partly of paved stone slabs and partly of hard-packed sand. During the construction work, a floating pontoon for events was installed near the pier for the 5-Lakes Cruise and Kellersee Cruise. An additional wooden walkway was also added to the promenade. Terraced platforms have been integrated along the embankment, offering a particularly beautiful view of the Dieksee.

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In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known example of the destructive effect of cormorant droppings, which virtually destroy vegetation. There was also a cormorant colony on an island in Lake Selent, which was later abandoned and subsequently recovered.

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Rüdiger M
April 16, 2025, Eutin Castle

Eutin Castle in Eutin, East Holstein, is the cultural center and nucleus of the town. Along with Gottorf Castle and Glücksburg Castle, it is one of the most important secular court buildings in Schleswig-Holstein. The four-winged complex originated from a medieval castle and was expanded into a royal residence over several centuries.

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Rüdiger M
April 10, 2025, Eutin Castle

Guided Tour of the Magnificent Chambers of Eutin Castle Stroll through the 850-year-old Eutin Castle and its magnificent chambers on a guided tour or on your own. The tour includes visits to the castle chapel, the original castle kitchen, and the former living quarters of the dukes. Today, the castle impresses visitors from all over the world as a museum and with special exhibitions. Large-scale ceiling paintings, precious wall coverings, original furniture, paintings, clocks, and furnishings such as three unusual ship models of Tsar Peter the Great can be admired. Prices: €8 per person | 0-6 years free | 7-12 years €2.00 | Families: 2 adults and children €16.00 | Public tour of the castle: €4 plus admission fee Reduced admission: Guests with an Ostholstein Museum ticket, schoolchildren aged 13 and over, trainees and students up to 28 years of age, severely disabled persons, welfare recipients, and the unemployed: €4.00 Photography permit: €1.50 for unlimited photographs in the castle exhibition, without flash, tripod, or similar, and for private use only.

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200 lakes close together, with Schleswig-Holstein's largest lake at its center: that's Holstein Switzerland. It's not without reason that this "lake paradise" is one of the most popular vacation regions for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and those looking to slow down from the stresses of big city life. The Great Plön Lake, with its deep blue waters and pristine shoreline, entices visitors to spend relaxing holidays on, in, and around the lake. Whether paddling, sailing, fishing, swimming, diving, or golfing near the lake – the options are endless. Furthermore, the 30 square kilometer expanse of water with a depth of 58 meters invites you to enjoy relaxing lake views. And all around the lake, picturesque towns like Plön, Bosau, and Dersau boast a wealth of culture, history, and nature. It's no wonder this lake has been awarded the seal of "Schleswig-Holstein's Favorite Lake" several times in a row.

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Rental of canoes, kayaks, SUP boards for individual and guided tours across the lakes and the Schwentine. The Malenter Kanucenter by Bottervogel is located just a few minutes' walk from Malenter train station, directly opposite the Dieksee promenade. Canoes (Canadians), kayaks and SUP boards as well as the necessary accessories such as paddles, life jackets and barrels for waterproof transport of smartphones and other valuables can be rented here. Groups, families and individuals can paddle across the lakes and the Schwentine either independently or - by prior arrangement - as part of a guided tour.

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Rental and sale of kayaks and Canadian canoes. Boats and accessories are also available for purchase. Boats Keusen, located in the Eutin district of Fissau, is just 130 m from the water hiking car park at the start of the Schwentine water hiking trail. Here you can not only rent kayaks and Canadian canoes, but also buy your own boats - the range includes kayaks, Canadian canoes, pedal boats, SUPs and fishing boats. For a fee, transport and collection of the rented canoes can be arranged.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What water sports and activities can I enjoy on the lakes in Holstein Switzerland?

The numerous lakes in Holstein Switzerland are perfect for a variety of water sports. You can enjoy swimming, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddling, and windsurfing. Many lakes are interconnected, offering opportunities for extended canoe trips, especially along the Schwentine River. For example, on the Großer Plöner See, you can find boat rentals for canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and even dragon boats. The Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) area also offers sailing school options.

Are there good opportunities for hiking or cycling around the lakes?

Yes, Holstein Switzerland is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. The hilly terrain and extensive network of paths provide numerous themed routes and circular trails. You can find many routes for different sports, such as MTB Trails in Holstein Switzerland, Running Trails in Holstein Switzerland, and Gravel biking in Holstein Switzerland. A popular spot for a scenic walk is the Dieksee Promenade, which runs along the western shore of the Dieksee.

What natural features and wildlife can I observe around the lakes?

The lakes are nestled within forested hills and surrounded by diverse landscapes, including reed bays and meadows, supporting rich biodiversity. Birdwatchers can spot great crested grebes, tufted ducks, goldeneyes, and reed warblers. The population of white-tailed eagles is also increasing. The Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) is known for its cormorant colonies and unique vegetation.

Are there any historical or cultural attractions near the lakes?

Absolutely. The lakeside towns offer cultural experiences, with castles like Eutin Castle, which serves as a cultural center and is one of the most important secular court buildings in Schleswig-Holstein. Plön Castle is another notable historical site. The region also hosts events like the Schleswig-Holstein Musik Festival.

Which lakes are particularly popular for visitors in Holstein Switzerland?

Among the most popular lakes are the Großer Plöner See, known for its size and islands, the Kellersee, offering excellent water sports, and the Dieksee, with its scenic promenade. Other highlights include Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) and the Kellersee Pier, which offers great views and seating.

What makes the Großer Plöner See a must-visit lake?

The Großer Plöner See is the largest lake in Schleswig-Holstein and a major highlight. It features wooded banks and over 30 islands, making it a scenic area and an important nature reserve. You can enjoy boat tours offering views of Plön Castle and the Prinzeninsel, known for its sandy beaches. The lake is also a habitat for various water birds, including the sea eagle. You can get a great perspective from the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge.

What can I do at Dieksee?

The Dieksee is a prominent lake in the region, featuring a scenic Dieksee Promenade that connects the Malente Wildlife Park to the Diekseeholm forest. It's a popular spot for activities like pedal boating and offers beautiful views from terraced platforms along the embankment.

Are the lakes in Holstein Switzerland family-friendly?

Yes, many areas around the lakes are very family-friendly. Highlights like the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, Dieksee Promenade, Eutin Castle, Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), and Kellersee Pier are all categorized as family-friendly, offering activities and sights suitable for all ages.

What is the best time to visit the lakes in Holstein Switzerland?

The region is beautiful year-round, but the warmer months from spring to early autumn are ideal for water sports, hiking, and cycling. During this time, you can fully enjoy the outdoor activities and the vibrant natural scenery. The lakes also offer a serene escape for tranquility and relaxation.

What kind of viewpoints are available to enjoy the lake scenery?

There are several excellent viewpoints around the lakes. The View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge offers a picturesque perspective of the largest lake. The Dieksee Promenade has terraced platforms for beautiful views of the Dieksee, and the Kellersee Pier provides a popular spot with seating and views along the shore of the Kellersee.

Can I take a boat tour on the lakes?

Yes, boat tours are available, particularly on the Großer Plöner See, offering views of Plön Castle and the Prinzeninsel. These tours provide a relaxing way to experience the picturesque beauty of the lake and its island paradise.

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Still not found your perfect lake in Holstein Switzerland? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

KasseedorfSchönwalde am BungsbergAltenkrempeRatekauBosauMalenteScharbeutzEutinSüselStockelsdorfWangelsOldenburg in HolsteinBad SchwartauAhrensbökSierksdorfKellerseeFehmarnTimmendorfer StrandGroßer Eutiner LakeLensahnSchashagenDiekseeGroßenbrodeGrömitzNeustadt in HolsteinBeschendorfHeiligenhafenGöhlGremersdorfDamlosManhagenRiepsdorfKabelhorstGrubeHemmelsdorfer LakeUkleiseeKellenhusenDahmeGroßer Pönitzer LakeBinnenwasser

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