Castles around Timmendorfer Strand provide a historical dimension to the coastal landscape of Ostholstein. While the area is known for its beaches, the surrounding region features several historical castles and manor houses. These sites offer insights into architecture and past eras. The diverse historical landmarks are situated amidst natural settings, including lakes and forests.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Timmendorfer Strand
The Schleswig-Holstein Cheese Road in 8 stages
Magic Moments — 6 magical places in Germany and Denmark
Active at the Baltic Sea
Cycling around Timmendorfer Strand
Hiking around Timmendorfer Strand
Running Trails around Timmendorfer Strand
MTB Trails around Timmendorfer Strand
Road Cycling Routes around Timmendorfer Strand

Gravel biking around Timmendorfer Strand
Apart from the raised embankment, unfortunately not much else can be seen. A shelter offers protection and a place to rest.
1
0
The beautiful entrance gate is practically directly in front of Pötenitz Castle. Pötenitz Castle is being completely renovated and converted into a castle hotel with a surrounding holiday complex. The innovative planning concept focuses on the renovation of the listed castle on the one hand and the construction of new, modern holiday properties on the other. This creates a combination of the preservation and at the same time the new beginning of a history.
1
0
The castle complex is located on the Langen Hörn. The hill is surrounded on three sides by the Schwartau, so the castle never had any great fortifications. Not much is known, but it was probably owned by the bishop, who administered the diocese from Old Lübeck. The castle complex is several hundred meters long and can be walked along its entire length. The ramparts that separated the castle sections from each other are still clearly visible.
1
0
Sightseeing for archaeology fans! Anything but the classic medieval castle ruins, but thanks to the information sign it becomes a bit more interesting. The route to the castle is also interesting, it is almost 1.5km along forest paths and trails with tall grass and you may also have to cross the odd wooden bridge, pure adventure!
0
0
High-quality private clinic in a beautiful castle. Golf club next door.
1
0
Manor house (manor house, castle) Johannstorf In 1743, the two-storey brick building was built on the site of a former moated castle according to plans by master builder Rudolph Matthias Dallin. The client for the construction was the von Buchwald(t) family, whose ancestral seat had been Johannstorf since 1412. The eye-catcher is the central projection on the southwest side of the manor house with colossal pilasters, the portal crowning and the triangular gable decorated with a coat of arms. Inside, the spacious hall impresses with a double staircase that leads to the upper floor. In the garden room, wooden wall panels that reach up to the ceiling have been preserved; stucco ceilings, fireplaces and stoves, mirrors and textile wall coverings are also still there. In 1782, the Eckermann family acquired the estate and remained the owners until it was expropriated in 1945. After 1945, the manor house was mainly inhabited. The listed building has been privately owned since 1993, and the urgently needed renovation was a long time coming. Through a legal settlement between the town of Dassow and the owner, the town of Dassow has managed to at least partially start the renovation of the manor house. The outbuildings are continuing to deteriorate, as is the manor house. The moat has also unfortunately deteriorated. https://gutshaeuser.de/de/guts_herrenhaeuser/gutshaeuser_j/gutshaus_herrenhaus_schloss_johannstorf
5
0
In any case, you cannot get to Pötenitz Castle through this gate or by car or bicycle.
2
0
The region around Timmendorfer Strand offers a variety of historical sites, including impressive manor houses like Johannstorf Castle, well-preserved castles such as Warnsdorf Castle, and archaeological sites like the Räuberkuhle Motte, which marks the spot of a former 13th-century tower hill castle.
Yes, Warnsdorf Castle is beautifully situated in a park directly on Hemmelsdorfer See, offering picturesque views and tranquil surroundings. It's approximately 5 km from Timmendorfer Strand.
Absolutely. The Räuberkuhle Motte in Timmendorfer Strand-Häven is an archaeological site of the former 13th-century tower hill castle, Gosevelde. While the wooden structure no longer stands, an information board and the enclosed mound allow visitors to imagine its historical existence in the forest.
Johannstorf Castle is a grand old mansion dating back to the end of the 18th century. It was built in 1743 as a successor to a medieval moated castle. While parts have been renovated, some sections are still awaiting restoration, offering a glimpse into its rich past and aristocratic living.
Warnsdorf Castle is considered family-friendly, offering a beautiful park setting by Hemmelsdorfer See. The Entrance gate to Pötenitz Castle is also listed as family-friendly, though the castle itself is a ruin and cannot be visited.
The region offers various outdoor activities. For instance, near the castles, you can find numerous hiking routes. Check out the Hiking around Timmendorfer Strand guide for trails like the Brodtener Steilufer Cliffs loop or routes around Niendorf Harbour. There are also running trails and road cycling routes available.
Schloss Eutin is a significant cultural highlight in the region, known for its grand architecture, spacious park, and historical importance. It's a bit further afield than other local castles but makes for a rewarding day trip. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes from Timmendorfer Strand.
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for visiting the castles and their surrounding parks, as the weather is pleasant for exploring. However, the historical sites can also offer a unique charm during autumn with changing foliage or a quiet, contemplative atmosphere in winter, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
While specific rules vary, many outdoor areas around castles like the park at Warnsdorf Castle or the forest paths leading to the Räuberkuhle Motte are generally accessible for dogs on a leash. It's always advisable to check specific site regulations before your visit.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical insights, architectural beauty, and picturesque natural surroundings. The opportunity to explore sites like the grand Johannstorf Castle, the lakeside setting of Warnsdorf Castle, and the intriguing archaeological remains of the Räuberkuhle Motte provides a diverse experience for history and nature enthusiasts alike.
While Timmendorfer Strand has good local transport connections, direct public transport to some of the more secluded castles like Johannstorf Castle or the Räuberkuhle Motte might be limited. Warnsdorf Castle is approximately 5 km from Timmendorfer Strand, making it potentially accessible by a combination of public transport and a short walk or bike ride. Driving is often the most convenient option for exploring the region's castles.
Near Warnsdorf Castle, you'll find options in the nearby seaside resorts of Timmendorfer Strand and Travemünde. For Schloss Eutin, the town of Eutin offers various cafes and restaurants. For more rural sites like Johannstorf Castle or the Räuberkuhle Motte, it's best to plan for refreshments in larger nearby towns before or after your visit.


Looking for the best castles somewhere else? Discover other guides around Timmendorfer Strand: