The best walks and hikes in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei
4.5
(4691)
25,044
hikers
906
hikes
Hiking in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei traverses a diverse landscape, a former military training ground now largely a protected Flora-Fauna-Habitat. The area covers approximately 400 hectares, with 227 hectares designated for protection under EU directives. It features about 64% grassland interspersed with fens and ponds, alongside 27% forest cover. This varied terrain includes open moor and meadow landscapes, characterized by a dense network of hedgerows and numerous small bodies of water.
Best hiking trails in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei
- The most popular hiking route is Wüstenei Military Training Area loop from Badendorf, a 2.9 miles (4.6 km) trail that takes 1 hour 10 minutes to complete, offering an easy walk through varied landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Wüstenei Military Training Area – Mini Garden loop from Badendorf, an easy 4.7 miles (7.6 km) path. This route leads through areas featuring small bodies of water and open meadows.
- Local hikers also love the Wüstenei Military Training Area loop from Sankt Lorenz Nord, a 1.4 miles (2.2 km) trail leading through grassland and forested sections, often completed in about 35 minutes.
- Hiking in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei is defined by diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, fens, ponds, and forests, alongside a dense network of hedges. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The routes in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4,400 reviews. More than 25,000 hikers have used komoot to explore Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
4.8
(25)
146
hikers
4.63km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
28
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
5
hikers
6.60km
01:40
20m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
hikers
12.7km
03:15
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Evangelical Church of Zarpen is a brick Gothic church in Zarpen, begun in 1221, which was built in the 13th century as the parish church of this early medieval main town and for the surrounding villages of the former Reinfeld Monastery in what is now the Nordstormarn district.
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Groß Steinrade was incorporated into Lübeck in 1970 as part of a regional reform from Stockelsdorf. The first owner is named in 1306 as Marquard von Sandberg, who sold Groß Steinrade and Eckhorst to the Lübeck citizen Dietrich von Ahlen. Later, there were frequent changes of ownership (v. Wickede, v. Calven, v. Brömbsen, etc.) until the estate came into the possession of Henning von Rumohr in 1732. This family remained in possession of the estate until the death of the last Rumohr, General Detlev von Rumohr (1961). The house and farm have since been demolished; the approximately 150 hectare forest property has been transferred to the federal government and has been used as the Wüstenei military training area since 1965. The grave site is also located on the training ground. The pioneer units from the Trave barracks mainly use the site, but of course also the units stationed in the Hanseaten barracks (HL) in Lübeck-Blankensee. The public part of the Wüstenei, which has been separated since 1994 and is around 100 hectares in size, is a landscape conservation area and is open to the public. The Bundeswehr still uses the Wüstenei training area today, so entering the military part is prohibited. https://pzgrendiv6.de/pzgrendiv6/standorte/stouebpl-wuestenei.html
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There are still some cranes here.
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Here you should make a small detour and drive through this beautiful avenue of old linden trees in the direction of Zarpenerhof. Halfway there, however, it is better to turn left and continue on towards Zarpen, because straight ahead you only reach a dead end and the private farm grounds.
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Only the eastern part (near Groß Steinrade) is freely accessible to the public and has been designated a nature reserve since 1994. The rest of the training area is still used by the German army, although apparently only rarely. Units from Lübeck and Bad Segeberg used to train there, but their locations have all been closed since the 1990s. The numerous warning signs are apparently quite new and therefore still serious. The signs on both sides show the same warning, so you can never be really sure whether you are driving in or out.
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I have cycled here many times and on January 6th, 2024 I had my first meet5 hike with 11 interested people over 14 km through all areas and on all paths. I have never seen or heard of BW exercises here. So no criticism from me! Almost all dog owners adhere to the leash requirement and there is absolute silence and no traffic here. My hiking group was thrilled! She didn't know that at all. By the way, we parked in 23619 Badendorf, Zur Wüstenei. Our tour: [https://www.komoot.de/tour/1409155027]
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From the bike you can let your gaze wander over the green meadows.
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Along the road to Dahmsdorf, you drive over a small hill. Although you only reach a height of about 30 meters, in good weather you have a beautiful view of the silhouette of Lübeck's towers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 900 routes available. The majority, around 650, are classified as easy, making the area accessible for many hikers.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
The terrain in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei is very diverse. You'll find approximately 64% grassland interspersed with numerous small fens and ponds, alongside 27% forest cover. There's also an open moor and meadow landscape, and a dense network of hedges. For a slight change in elevation, some routes feature sections like "über den Wall" (over the embankment).
What makes Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei a unique place for hiking?
Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei is unique due to its past as a military training ground now largely transformed into a protected Flora-Fauna-Habitat (FFH) area. This has resulted in a rich tapestry of diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, fens, ponds, and forests, supporting unique flora and fauna. The area also carries a historical context, having once housed manor houses that supplied Lübeck.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
The hiking trails in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 3,900 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied landscape, the peaceful atmosphere, and the well-maintained paths that offer a range of experiences from easy walks to slightly more adventurous sections.
Are there any restrictions or safety considerations for hiking in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
Yes, it's crucial to be aware that Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei remains a partially active military training ground. While the southern part is generally accessible outside of training hours, the northeastern section is a military safety zone and strictly off-limits. Always heed warning signs to ensure your safety and respect ongoing military activities.
Where can I park when visiting Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei for a hike?
Parking is generally available, especially near accessible entry points. Many hikers utilize parking areas close to Groß Steinrade, which provides good access to the eastern part of the nature reserve.
Can I reach Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei by public transport?
Yes, Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei is accessible by public transport. Bus services connect the area, particularly from nearby towns like Badendorf and Groß Steinrade, making it possible to reach trailheads without a car.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
Absolutely. Many paths in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei are easily walkable and suitable for families. Routes like Wüstenei Military Training Area loop from Badendorf offer an easy walk through varied landscapes, perfect for a family outing.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
Dogs are generally welcome on the hiking trails in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei. However, as parts of the area are a nature reserve and a former military training ground, it's important to keep dogs on a leash, especially in sensitive ecological areas or near active military zones, and to clean up after them.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei?
Yes, Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei offers numerous circular hiking routes. Popular options include the Wüstenei Military Training Area – Mini Garden loop from Badendorf, which takes you through areas with small bodies of water and open meadows, and the Wüstenei Military Training Area loop from Sankt Lorenz Nord.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the trails?
Along the trails, you can explore diverse natural features such as grasslands, fens, ponds, and forests. Notable landmarks include the Wüstenei Training Area Nature Reserve itself, which protects the area's biodiversity, and the unique terrain feature known as over the embankment (Wüstenei).
Are there trails suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy walk?
Yes, Standortsübungsplatz Wüstenei is very beginner-friendly, with a large number of easy trails. For example, the Mini Garden loop from Badendorf is an easy route that allows you to enjoy the landscape without significant elevation changes.
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