Lakes around Schellhorn are characterized by their location within the picturesque Holstein Switzerland region, which features over 200 lakes amidst rolling hills and forests. The municipality of Schellhorn is directly adjacent to the Lanker See, a significant natural area. This region offers access to numerous lakes, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The landscape provides opportunities for various water sports and nature observation.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
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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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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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The Great Plön Lake offers bathing areas for swimming in the summer months. The water quality is generally very good or excellent. The Prinzenbad on the west bank of the Prinzeninsel with its beautiful sandy beach, kiosk and lifeguard is worth a visit.30.12.2024
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A varied selection of refreshments and cocktails attracts visitors to the bar. There is a carefree party atmosphere here. Music and good humor bring a southern flair to Holstein Switzerland. Swimming makes you hungry. Tasty snacks satisfy your hunger between meals. After swimming, comfortable lounge chairs invite you to chill out. The beach is also an ideal place for picnic lovers. It gets romantic in the evening when the setting sun is reflected in the Great Plön Lake and waves gently lap on the shore.
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In the west of the island is the approximately 100-meter-wide sandy beach. The gently sloping shore offers ideal bathing conditions for children. In summer, a DLRG post is manned here. But adults also experience the purest holiday atmosphere. With lush forest in the background, you have a relaxing view of the lake landscape. Small islands interrupt the calm surface of the water, in which the sun reflects when the weather is nice. Canoes, boats and stand-up paddlers move across the lake and take disturbing thoughts of everyday stress with them. This makes the island a place to switch off and recharge.
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Beach between the Princes' Island in the Great Plön Lake with a sandy beach and DLRG. At the end of the idyllic Princes' Island is the natural beach with a view of the sunset included. As a destination for a day trip or a rest stop, you should not miss the approximately 100 m wide, gently sloping sandy beach. The bathing area can only be reached on foot, by bike or by excursion boat. The bathing area is guarded by the DLRG and has a kiosk, toilet, shower, playground and in summer also a volleyball net. Parking spaces are located on the Ascheberger Chaussee (approx. 2 km to the bathing area).
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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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The Lanker See, directly adjacent to Schellhorn, is a significant natural area. Its western side is a designated nature reserve, offering crucial breeding and resting grounds for numerous endangered bird species like the Common Goldeneye, Great Bittern, and Marsh Harrier. A cycling and hiking trail, part of the Preetzer "Schusteracht," leads past the lake, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Großer Plöner See also hosts rare bird species, including the white-tailed eagle, and features diverse flora and fauna within its nature park.
Yes, several lakes and their surrounding areas are great for families. The Großer Plöner See is particularly popular, offering 13 official swimming spots. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön are noted for their facilities, sandy beaches, and refreshing swims. The region's lakes generally provide clear waters and opportunities for various activities suitable for all ages.
The Großer Plöner See is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy canoeing, sailing, angling, swimming, and diving. Boat rentals are available for canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards, allowing you to explore the interconnected lakes of Holstein Switzerland. Electric boat tours are also an option for a more relaxed exploration of the lake's beauty.
Absolutely. The Holstein Switzerland region, with its numerous lakes, offers extensive opportunities for hiking and cycling. A cycling and hiking trail, part of the Preetzer "Schusteracht," passes the Lanker See. For more options, you can explore various routes such as the "Walter Ewoldt Bridge – Lanker Lake Beach loop" for easy hikes or the "Lanker See Beach – Gut Wahlstorf Manor loop" for mountain biking. Find more trails in the Easy hikes around Schellhorn and MTB Trails around Schellhorn guides.
Near the Großer Plöner See, you'll find Plön Castle, which overlooks the town of Plön. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is also historically significant, having been owned by the House of Hohenzollern since 1910. Additionally, the Sieversdorf Bridge is a relic of the narrow-gauge railway that operated in the region until the 1930s.
The lakes in the Holstein Switzerland region, including the Großer Plöner See, are generally known for their clear waters and are popular for swimming. The Großer Plöner See consistently receives excellent water quality ratings and has 13 official swimming spots. While specific designated wild swimming areas might vary, the overall water quality and natural setting make many areas suitable for a refreshing dip.
The Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) is a notable natural monument. It's part of an area characterized by idyllic bays and small beaches. While beautiful, it's also known for hosting cormorant colonies, which can impact local vegetation, making it an interesting site for observing natural ecological processes.
While the Großer Plöner See has popular spots, its vast size and numerous islands mean you can often find quieter bays and smaller beaches. The Lanker See, particularly within its nature reserve areas, offers a more tranquil experience focused on nature observation away from larger crowds. Exploring the many interconnected lakes of Holstein Switzerland by canoe can also lead you to more secluded spots.
The lakes around Schellhorn offer picturesque views, characteristic of the Holstein Switzerland region with its rolling hills and forests. From the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, you can see the expansive lake and Plön Castle. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel offers a wonderful view of Plön Castle, and the Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön is known for its beautiful sunsets.
Yes, the region around Schellhorn and its lakes provides excellent opportunities for road cycling. You can find various routes, such as the "Rethwisch–Fladenritt Road – Wielen–Trent Rural Road loop" or the "Wahlstorf Manor – Gut Wahlstorf Manor loop." These routes offer diverse distances and difficulty levels, allowing you to explore the scenic lake landscape on two wheels. More options are available in the Road Cycling Routes around Schellhorn guide.
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning natural beauty, the clear waters ideal for swimming and water sports, and the extensive opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The panoramic views, especially of Plön Castle from various points on the Großer Plöner See, and the peaceful nature observation at places like the Lanker See, are frequently highlighted. The availability of facilities and family-friendly beaches also contributes to a positive experience.


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