Lakes around Hornbek, located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offer a diverse natural landscape characterized by numerous lakes and protected areas. This region is part of the Herzogtum Lauenburg district, known for its extensive network of waterways and forests. Visitors can explore various lakes, including those near the historic town of Mölln, which is often referred to as the "Eulenspiegel town." The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst its natural features and cultural sites.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Carmen Langmaack, who passed away in 2015 at an advanced age, left a remarkable legacy to the town of Mölln. A foundation was established to promote nature conservation, animal welfare, and environmental education – entirely in her spirit. Although she no longer lived in Mölln for many years, she maintained a close connection to her homeland and the surrounding nature. Today, a beautiful footpath with a wooden bridge between the lakes at Schmalsee commemorates her: the Carmen Langmaack Trail.
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Mölln: Bridges at Schmalsee reopened to pedestrians
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HIKE THROUGH THE HELLBACHTAL Natural hiking trails run through the rustic mixed forests. The meltwater from the last ice age formed the valley through which the Hellbach flows. The highlight of the tour remains a variety of different types of water, the likes of which you would hardly find in such a small area. The gap is repeatedly bridged by wonderful views and insights into a meadow valley. The winding Hellbach with its alder belt offers good observation opportunities at the bridges and footbridges. The Hellbachtal tour can be extended as desired to include the Mölln lakes. https://www.herzogtum-lauenburg.de/wandel-durch-das-hellbachtal
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It's easy to walk along here.
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This bridge allows for a slightly smaller lap just around the Schmalsee
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A beautiful, worthwhile hiking trail around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lüttauer See.
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The region around Hornbek, located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is characterized by a diverse natural landscape with numerous lakes and protected areas. It's part of the Herzogtum Lauenburg district, known for its extensive network of waterways and forests. You'll find a variety of lakes, from large, clear ones like Schmalsee and Lütauer See, to smaller, protected lakes within nature reserves such as Krebssee and Lottsee.
Yes, the area offers excellent hiking opportunities. For example, there's a worthwhile hiking trail around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lütauer See. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau also features a trail that leads almost entirely around the lake. Additionally, the Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve offers beautiful routes through wet meadows and forests.
Many lakes in the Hornbek area are family-friendly. Schmalsee is a popular choice, and the Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau provides easy water access and a covered rest area. The Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve is also suitable for families looking to explore nature.
Yes, swimming is possible in several lakes. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau offers clear water and bathing stairs for easy access. The nutrient-poor Krebssee, located within the Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve, is known as one of the cleanest lakes in northern Germany with excellent visibility.
The Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve is a notable natural monument, featuring wet meadows, orchid meadows, and lakes like the nutrient-poor Krebssee and the more secluded Lottsee. This valley is a tunnel valley washed out by meltwater, offering a unique ecological environment.
Yes, the historic town of Mölln, often called the "Eulenspiegel town," is directly adjacent to some of the lakes, such as Schmalsee. From certain points, like the View of Mölln's Old Town and St. Nicolai Church, you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of Mölln's old town and its iconic church across the water.
Beyond hiking, the area around Hornbek offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for jogging, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are several running trails like the "Victoria Railway Memorabilia Collection loop from Hornbek" (Running Trails around Hornbek), road cycling routes such as the "Wotersen Castle loop from Hornbek" (Road Cycling Routes around Hornbek), and MTB trails like the "Hellbach Railway Bridge loop from Grambek" (MTB Trails around Hornbek).
While specific dog-friendly trails are not explicitly detailed, the natural areas and hiking trails around lakes like Schmalsee and Lütauer See are generally welcoming for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check local regulations for nature reserves.
The lakes around Hornbek offer beauty year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for swimming, boating, and enjoying the lush green landscapes and orchid meadows in areas like the Hellbach Valley. Autumn provides stunning foliage, while winter offers a serene setting for crisp walks, especially around the frozen lakes.
Yes, the Carmen Langmaack Bridge on the Schmalsee is a notable feature. It's part of a beautiful footpath that leads over a wooden bridge between Schmalsee and Lütauer See, commemorating a local benefactor who supported nature conservation.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. Many appreciate the well-maintained hiking trails, especially around Schmalsee and Lütauer See, and the clear water for swimming. The scenic views of Mölln's Old Town from the lakes are also a highlight, as is the unique ecosystem of the Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve.
The lakes, particularly those near Mölln like Schmalsee and Lütauer See, are generally accessible. Mölln itself has public transport connections. For specific parking information or public transport routes to more secluded lakes, it's advisable to check local transport schedules or mapping services.


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