Lakes around Kirchbarkau are situated in a picturesque lake district in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The region features several notable lakes, including the Bothkamper See, known for its recreational opportunities, and the ecologically important Kührener Teich and Lanker See. This area offers diverse natural landscapes, from designated bathing areas to significant nature reserves, providing various walking paths and hiking routes.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
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The 79-hectare "Kührener Teich and Surroundings" nature reserve, designated in 1994, lies directly south of the 207-hectare "Peninsulas and Bays in Lake Lanker" nature reserve, separated by the railway embankment. This protection safeguards two nationally important breeding, resting, and feeding areas for endangered and rare bird species, as well as for the rare fire-bellied toad. The core of the nature reserve is the 40-hectare fish pond, which is on average only half a meter deep and drains into Lake Lanker via a dam on the northern edge. North of the path, which runs along a narrow ridge, a species-rich, wet lowland area extends to the railway embankment. The natural water balance has been restored through damming. Large bodies of water occasionally extend here. The area is part of the European ecological network "Natura 2000" (protected habitat area and bird sanctuary). Pond management
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The alternation between high and low water levels is particularly well known for Lake Einfeld, where so-called “hunger stones” become visible at extremely low water levels.
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The Kirchbarkau - Preetz - Lütjenburg (KPL) narrow-gauge railway, founded in 1908, connected rural towns in the region from 1910 onwards over a distance of 41.1 kilometres with 23 stops and was used primarily for freight transport, for example for agricultural products. Despite good infrastructure and regular transport, it was not economically viable, so passenger transport was initially discontinued and then all operations were discontinued in 1938. The line was dismantled, but relics such as the Schwentine Bridge remind us of this short but significant era in regional transport history.
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Go into the NABU house, close the door and watch the birds 😉.
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Just watch out for the edge when going up and down
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Hey, the bridge is pretty, but make the effort to explore the moderately difficult route including the Schwentine and the western mountain landscape. It's worth it. In small groups or in pairs. Really.
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The beautiful bridge should be torn down. A citizens' initiative saved the bridge for pedestrians and bicycles. Now it is freshly painted and maintained by citizens every second year.
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The lakes around Kirchbarkau offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous trails for easy walks and moderate hikes, especially around Bothkamper See. The hiking routes around Kirchbarkau include options like the 'Lake Forest Path – View of Bothkamper See' loop. For cyclists, there are gravel biking and road cycling routes that explore the scenic lake district.
Yes, the Kührener Teich Nature Reserve is a significant ecological area, crucial for protecting endangered and rare bird species, as well as the rare fire-bellied toad. It's part of the European ecological network "Natura 2000" and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature observation. The larger Lanker See also has extensive nature reserve areas.
The Bothkamper See has a designated bathing area in Kirchbarkau, which regularly boasts good to very good water quality, making it a popular spot for swimming. Additionally, the Lanker See offers a large free swimming area with a sandy beach and bathing island at Schellhorn.
Absolutely. Many trails and paths encircling lakes like Bothkamper See are suitable for all fitness levels and families, offering easy walks with scenic views. The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve also has paths that are generally considered family-friendly for nature exploration.
You can discover several historical points of interest. The White Bridge over the Rosensee, built in 1907, is the oldest concrete arch bridge in Schleswig-Holstein. Another historical structure is the Sieversdorf Bridge, a relic of the former Kirchbarkau-Preetz-Lütjenburg narrow-gauge railway.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Summer months are ideal for swimming and water-based activities, though be aware of potential algal blooms at Bothkamper See. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and nature observation, with vibrant foliage or blooming flora. Winter can provide serene landscapes for walks, especially if the lakes freeze over.
Yes, the Twisted Tree at Lake Bordesholm is a notable natural feature with an interesting eco-trail. The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve, with its shallow fish pond and wet lowland areas, offers a unique ecological landscape. Many trails around the lakes provide excellent viewpoints over the water and surrounding nature.
The Bothkamper See is easily accessible, located approximately 1 kilometer from Kirchbarkau. Other lakes and nature reserves in the district, such as Kührener Teich and Lanker See, are also within easy reach by car or bicycle, offering various entry points and parking options for visitors.
Yes, there are several circular walking routes. For example, you can find a loop around Lake Bordesholm, which is about 5.2 km long and offers great views. Many paths around Bothkamper See also form circular routes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a more extended hike.
The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve is ecologically vital as it protects nationally important breeding, resting, and feeding grounds for endangered and rare bird species, as well as the rare fire-bellied toad. Its core is a shallow fish pond, and the restoration of its natural water balance has created a species-rich, wet lowland area, making it part of the European ecological network "Natura 2000".
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from the recreational opportunities at Bothkamper See to the serene and ecologically rich areas like the Kührener Teich. The well-maintained trails and paths for walking and cycling are also highly valued, as are the historical bridges that add character to the routes. The komoot community has shared over 190 photos and given more than 700 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.


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