Top 6 Castles around Scharbeutz
Best castles around Scharbeutz are found within the surrounding Ostholstein region, offering a glimpse into the rich past of Schleswig-Holstein. This area is characterized by its historical estates and significant landmarks, providing a diverse landscape for exploration. The region extends into Holstein Switzerland, showcasing various forms of historical fortifications and estates. These historical sites are well worth a visit for those interested in the area's heritage and medieval ruins near Scharbeutz.
Best castles around Scharbeutz
- The most popular castles is Eutin Castle, a castle that originated as a medieval castle and evolved into a four-winged ducal residence. It is one of Schleswig-Holstein's most important secular court buildings, alongside Gottorf Castle and Glücksburg Castle.
- Another must-see spot is Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch, a historical site with remnants such as a raised wall hinting at its past existence. Here, visitors can observe the remains of a moat and rampart from a high medieval castle.
- Visitors also love Warnsdorf Castle, a castle located in the enchanting landscape of East Holstein directly on Hemmelsdorfer See. It is a high-quality private clinic in a beautiful castle setting.
- Scharbeutz is known for fortified castles, ducal residences, and archaeological castle sites. These sites offer a glimpse into the rich past of Schleswig-Holstein, showcasing various forms of historical fortifications and estates.
- The castles around Scharbeutz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2700 upvotes and over 1800 photos shared.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Eutin Castle
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Promenade on the Great Eutin Lake
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Gut Sierhagen
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First mention
The Gut Sierhagen in the heart of the Holstein Switzerland has a varied history behind it and begins with the first mention of the place Sierhagen in connection with a monastery founded in the 12th century.
From the fortified castle to the manor house
From the early Middle Ages to the 17th century, the estate was owned by the von Buchwaldt family, who played a major role in shaping it. In the 16th century, the Buchwaldts replaced the old castle with defense towers with a twin house with two separate wings. In 1647 they acquired the estate Hasselburg.
Cultural blossom
1666 the estate was sold together with the Hasselburg estate to the family of the Earl of Dernath. Impressed by the work of the French Sun King Louis XIV, Gerhard von Dernath also took on the building skills and added a connecting center wing to the two side wings. In this time, the culture was well maintained on the goods and on Sierhagen got the floriculture - and thus the maintenance of an orangery - an important role. Perhaps Gerhard Graf von Dernath lived on too large a foot, at any rate, the yield of his goods was no longer enough and he had to declare bankruptcy in 1730. Both goods were sold.
The rich landowner
First, the family of the Counts of Brockdorff became its new owners. At the time of the Brockdorffs, the eastern gatehouse was built, which is decorated on the court side by a flying fish - the heraldic animal of Brockdorffs - over the gate ride. Shortly thereafter, in 1765, Wulf Heinrich von Thienen acquired the estate. He was a skilled merchant and economist and became one of the wealthiest landlords of his time. In 1809, when he died at the ripe old age of 88, he bequeathed the estate to a grandson of his sister, Count Wulf von Scheel-Plessen, in the absence of his own heirs. To this day, the Scheel-Plessen family owns the beautiful estate.
New building pleasure
In 1825, Mogens Joachim Scheel-Plessen - the father of Wulf Scheel-Plessen - had the manor house rebuilt by the Hamburg architect Alexis de Chateauneuf in the classical style. The architecture of this architect can be admired in Hamburg, including the Alsterarkaden. At the time of the reconstruction of the mansion in Sierhagen de Chateauneuf was 25 years old. With a youthful zest for action, he not only rebuilt the building, but also designed the interior in the lower salons.
Only a castle
When his granddaughter Louise inherited the estate in 1876, it experienced a second cultural heyday. For many years Louise was the palace lady of the Empress Auguste Viktoria in Berlin and also attracted a large circle of artists and scientists to Sierhagen. She was offered an elevation to the princely estate in 1900, but she refused with her husband Carl Scheel-Plessen, as this would have meant the conversion of the mansion to a princely castle and the financial expenses spared.
To the modern age
After the Second World War, the goods were divided between two siblings, so that today only the estate Sierhagen and the Meierhof Good Mühlenkamp are in the possession of the Counts of Scheel-Plessen. Today, the estate of Carl-Christian Graf v. Scheel Plessen led in the 8th generation.
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Räuberkuhle Motte (motte-and-bailey castle)
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Info:
de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Burg_Gosevelde
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Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch
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Tips from the Community
Apart from the raised embankment, unfortunately not much else can be seen. A shelter offers protection and a place to rest.
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Sierhagen Estate is one of twelve noble estates in East Holstein that share a long, rich history: small, moated knight's castles – called mottes – transformed in the early modern period into estates where noble landowners could dispose of their serfs as they saw fit. Some estates grew large and influential. With the end of the Weimar Republic, the power of these magnificent estates collapsed. Over the centuries, the Syraa fortress became the large Sierhagen Estate, with a large manor house in the neoclassical style. The estate is still surrounded by a moat. Over the centuries, it passed through several noble hands; today it belongs to the Count and Countess of Scheel-Plessen. The estate includes 1,500 hectares of land and forest, making it one of the estates still economically successful today. The estate can be visited at any time, and you can take a stylish break at the excellent Café Palmgarten, provided it is open. Be sure to check the opening hours; Unfortunately, we found the gate closed. https://www.gut-sierhagen.de/ Gut Sierhagen in Holstein Switzerland
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Eutin Castle in Eutin, East Holstein, is the cultural center and nucleus of the town. Along with Gottorf Castle and Glücksburg Castle, it is one of the most important secular court buildings in Schleswig-Holstein. The four-winged complex originated from a medieval castle and was expanded into a royal residence over several centuries.
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Guided Tour of the Magnificent Chambers of Eutin Castle Stroll through the 850-year-old Eutin Castle and its magnificent chambers on a guided tour or on your own. The tour includes visits to the castle chapel, the original castle kitchen, and the former living quarters of the dukes. Today, the castle impresses visitors from all over the world as a museum and with special exhibitions. Large-scale ceiling paintings, precious wall coverings, original furniture, paintings, clocks, and furnishings such as three unusual ship models of Tsar Peter the Great can be admired. Prices: €8 per person | 0-6 years free | 7-12 years €2.00 | Families: 2 adults and children €16.00 | Public tour of the castle: €4 plus admission fee Reduced admission: Guests with an Ostholstein Museum ticket, schoolchildren aged 13 and over, trainees and students up to 28 years of age, severely disabled persons, welfare recipients, and the unemployed: €4.00 Photography permit: €1.50 for unlimited photographs in the castle exhibition, without flash, tripod, or similar, and for private use only.
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Canoeing Experience – With or Without a Guide There are many ways to plan your relaxing canoeing or paddling holiday in Holstein Switzerland. For those who would like to gain deeper insights into the region, we offer guided canoe tours for groups. These range from canoeing tours in Plön to evening tours in Malente and Eutin. But even those who don't have their own canoe and prefer to paddle without a guide will find plenty to enjoy: canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available everywhere along the lakes and waterways. Furthermore, our extensive network of idyllic rest areas, modern ferry crossings, and conveniently located launching points make paddling a truly relaxing experience. This applies equally to athletes, explorers, and those looking to slow down, with or without family.
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Insider Tip: Paddling Break with Old Town Ambience During an active paddling tour, you can easily dock in the city bay and take a short break in one of the various cafés and restaurants surrounding the historic market square.
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The Great Eutin Lake and the Kellersee are not just great for swimming and bathing. Active holidaymakers can paddle to their heart's content in a canoe, kayak or SUP - the perfect combination of nature experience and sport is also possible on holiday! The equipment is available from the local rental company. Holiday anglers are not left out either - fishing is permitted on Eutin's waters from both the shore and the boat. With a bit of luck, you'll catch the rare whitefish. If you need a break after all the activity, but still don't want to miss out on fresh air and a view of the lake, you can set up camp at the natural campsite on the Kellersee.
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In Eutin, the Great Eutin Lake is just a stone's throw from the old town. If you need to cool off after cultural enjoyment, you don't have to go far. The historic outdoor swimming pool with old changing rooms, wooden bathing jetties and lifeguard's house is just a 5-minute walk from the castle and the old town and is just the thing for families with children and enthusiastic water lovers. During a hiking or cycling tour, small, hidden natural bathing spots are also ideal for a dip in the cool water. If the weather is a bit more northern German, you can switch to the swimming pool with a view of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most significant castles and historical sites near Scharbeutz?
The most significant historical sites in the vicinity of Scharbeutz include Eutin Castle, a ducal residence and museum, and Gut Sierhagen, a historical estate that evolved from a fortified castle. You can also explore archaeological sites like the Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch and the Räuberkuhle Motte, an early tower hill castle.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Scharbeutz?
Yes, Eutin Castle is considered family-friendly, offering guided tours through its chambers. Additionally, the adjacent Eutin Castle Kitchen Garden is a lovingly landscaped area with lots to discover, making it enjoyable for all ages. The Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch also offers an interesting outdoor historical experience for families.
What kind of historical insights can I gain from visiting Eutin Castle?
Eutin Castle offers a comprehensive journey through 850 years of history. Visitors can take guided tours through magnificent chambers, including the castle chapel, original kitchen, and ducal living quarters. The castle functions as a museum, showcasing extensive ceiling paintings, valuable tapestries, original furniture, and unique items like ship models by Tsar Peter the Great, providing deep insight into the life of the ducal family and Schleswig-Holstein's past.
Can I find cafes or restaurants at the castles near Scharbeutz?
Yes, Eutin Castle has restaurants located in its inner courtyard, offering a convenient option for refreshments during your visit.
What are the parking options at castles in the Ostholstein region?
Parking availability varies by location. For Eutin Castle, parking is generally available in Eutin, often within walking distance of the castle grounds. For estates like Gut Sierhagen, visitors can view the estate from the outside, but driving through the private grounds is not permitted.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The region around Scharbeutz offers various outdoor activities. You can find excellent cycling routes, including those around the Great Eutin Lake which passes near Eutin Castle. There are also gravel biking routes, such as the 'Sierhagen Estate loop' which takes you close to Gut Sierhagen. For more details on routes, check out the Cycling around Scharbeutz and Gravel biking around Scharbeutz guides.
Are there any less-known or archaeological castle sites to explore?
Yes, for those interested in archaeological sites, the Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch offers remnants of a high medieval castle, including a visible moat and rampart. Another interesting site is the Räuberkuhle Motte, an early tower hill castle (Burg Gosevelde) located in the forest, where you can observe the former tower hill and moat.
What is the best season to visit Eutin Castle?
While Eutin Castle is open year-round, the surrounding gardens and the nearby Eutin Castle Kitchen Garden are particularly beautiful in spring and summer when the plants are in full bloom. The castle's interior tours are enjoyable regardless of the season.
What makes Gut Sierhagen unique among the historical sites?
Gut Sierhagen stands out for its evolution from a medieval fortified castle to a classical manor house. Its history spans centuries, with continuous ownership by notable families like the Scheel-Plessen family since 1809. This offers a unique perspective on the architectural and social changes of aristocratic estates in the Holstein Switzerland region.
Are there any castles further afield in Schleswig-Holstein that are worth visiting?
If you're willing to venture further within Schleswig-Holstein, Glücksburg Castle near Flensburg is a highly significant example. It's a historic moated castle built between 1582 and 1587, considered one of the most important secular court buildings in the state, offering guided tours and insights into four centuries of castle history and its connection to European royalty.
What do visitors appreciate most about the castles and historical sites in this region?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich historical context and the well-preserved architecture of sites like Eutin Castle, with its magnificent chambers and art treasures. The natural beauty surrounding many sites, such as the Eutin Castle Kitchen Garden and the forest setting of the Räuberkuhle Motte, also receives high praise. The opportunity to glimpse into Schleswig-Holstein's past is a major draw.
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