Top 20 Lakes around Rathjensdorf
Best lakes around Rathjensdorf are situated within the picturesque "Holstein Switzerland" region, a municipality in the district of Plön, Schleswig-Holstein. This area is characterized by diverse lakescapes and rolling hills. It offers opportunities for water sports, relaxation, and nature observation. The region's focus on nature conservation enhances the appeal of its lakes for visitors.
Best lakes around Rathjensdorf
- The most popular lakes is Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, a beach that offers a wonderful view of Plön Castle. This location is…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge
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Dieksee Promenade
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The Dieksee promenade runs along the western shore of the 368-hectare Dieksee lake. Here you will …
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Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See)
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View of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake
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Kellersee Pier
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Tips from the Community
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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The trip around the Kellersee is worthwhile in every season
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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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From 1-person kayaks to 10-person canoes with equipment and instructions If someone has arrived without a canoe, they don't have to miss out on the fun of paddling. The rental stations in Malente, Plön, Eutin and Bosau offer everyone the opportunity to rent a canoe or kayak including accessories and you usually also receive a short instruction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes to visit around Rathjensdorf?
The region around Rathjensdorf, nestled in 'Holstein Switzerland', offers diverse lakes. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel on Großer Plöner See is highly popular, offering a wonderful view of Plön Castle. Another favorite is Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its cormorant colonies and idyllic bays. Visitors also enjoy the Kellersee Pier, providing access to the Kellersee for various water sports.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Rathjensdorf?
The lakes are set within rolling hills and scenic landscapes. Großer Plöner See features wooded shores and numerous islands, home to various bird species. Plußsee is a unique kettle lake surrounded by forest, serving as a protected breeding ground for sea eagles. Sterin Island on Großer Plöner See is notable for its cormorant colonies and small beaches. The Schwentine river flows through the Dieksee, adding to its natural charm.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer family-friendly options. Großer Plöner See is excellent for swimming, sailing, and canoeing, with beautiful bathing areas, playgrounds, and sunbathing lawns. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is a designated family-friendly spot. Boat rentals for pedal boats, rowing boats, SUPs, and even dragon boats are available, and sailing schools offer courses for children.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Rathjensdorf?
The summer months are particularly popular for visiting the lakes, offering ideal conditions for swimming, sailing, and other water sports. However, the region's scenic landscapes and rolling hills make it attractive for hiking and cycling throughout spring, summer, and autumn. Nature observation, especially for sea eagles, can be rewarding in different seasons.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond water sports like swimming, sailing, and canoeing, the region is excellent for hiking and cycling. You can find numerous routes for different activities. For cycling, there are options like the cycling routes around Rathjensdorf, including easy loops around Prinzenbad Beach. Road cycling enthusiasts can explore routes like the road cycling routes around Rathjensdorf, and there are also gravel biking trails, such as those around Kellersee and Great Eutin Lake.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is located on Prinzeninsel, which was purchased by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and is still owned by the House of Hohenzollern. This area features forest, swampy terrain, and a sandy beach, offering a glimpse into its historical past.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers various options. Along the lakeshores, you can find fish restaurants serving freshly caught fish from the Great Plön Lake, adding to the regional culinary appeal. The Dieksee Promenade, for example, runs along the western shore of the Dieksee and features many hotels, guesthouses, and health clinics.
What makes Plußsee unique among the lakes in the region?
Plußsee is unique as a geologically significant kettle lake ('Söll') with no natural inflows or outflows. It is surrounded by forest and is a protected breeding ground for sea eagles. Its ecological importance and the extensive scientific research conducted there in the past make it a special point of interest for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Are there good viewpoints to enjoy the lake scenery?
Absolutely. The View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge offers picturesque vistas, including Plön Castle and the Princes' Island. The Kellersee Pier provides access to the Kellersee and is a popular spot for relaxing and enjoying the water. The Dieksee Promenade also features terraced platforms with particularly beautiful views of the Dieksee.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Rathjensdorf?
Visitors frequently appreciate the picturesque beauty and tranquility of the lakes. The opportunity to experience the romantic island paradise of Großer Plöner See, observe diverse water birds, and potentially spot sea eagles is a highlight. The idyllic bays and small beaches, along with the variety of water sports and recreational activities, are also highly valued by the community.
Is it possible to rent boats or take sailing lessons?
Yes, boat rentals are widely available, especially on Großer Plöner See. You can rent pedal boats, rowing boats, SUPs, and even dragon boats. Sailing schools offer a wide range of courses from May to October, catering to beginners, advanced sailors, and even children, making it easy to enjoy the water regardless of your experience level.
How accessible are the lakes from Rathjensdorf?
Rathjensdorf is situated directly on the shores of Großer Plöner See, making it highly accessible. Other lakes like Schöhsee are also easily reachable, being only about 2.1 km away. The Trammer See has a designated swimming area within the municipality of Rathjensdorf, offering a convenient local spot for recreation.
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