Best lakes around Schmalsee are found in the Herzogtum Lauenburg district of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Schmalsee itself is an elongated lake spanning nearly 19 hectares with a depth of up to 7.8 meters, nestled within forests east of Mölln. The region is characterized by numerous bodies of water, including the larger Schaalsee and smaller lakes like Lütauer See, all part of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park. A hiking trail encircles Schmalsee, offering insights into the local natural environment.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The shores of the lakes up here are partly boggy... this not only creates a special atmosphere, but also provides important habitat for numerous animals.
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Designated bathing beach for dogs, so that even four-legged friends can cool off.
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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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It's easy to walk along here.
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No special skills required.
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While Schmalsee is a beautiful destination, the Herzogtum Lauenburg district offers several other lakes. The much larger Schaalsee, about 13 kilometers away, is highly recommended for its recreational offerings and status as a biosphere reserve. Closer to Schmalsee, you'll find the Lütauer See and Lüttauer See, often included in hiking routes. Other nearby options include Hegesee, Schulsee, and Ziegelsee, all within a few kilometers of Mölln.
Yes, the area around Schmalsee is very family-friendly. The Schmalsee itself features a hiking trail suitable for families. The nearby Naturparkzentrum Uhlenkolk offers a cafe, playgrounds, a wildlife park, and a boulder garden, making it an excellent destination for children. The Carmen Langmaack Bridge on the Schmalsee is also part of a beautiful footpath that connects Schmalsee and Lütauer See, which is enjoyable for all ages.
The Schmalsee region is characterized by its natural beauty, particularly its elongated forest lakes. You'll find dense forests surrounding the water, offering scenic views, especially from the East shore of the Schmalsee. There are also wetland areas, like the Wetland Area, which are natural paradises for local wildlife, including frogs and toads. The Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park provides a rich environment for nature observation.
The region around Schmalsee offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Schmalsee Northeast Shore – Lütauer See loop' or explore MTB trails such as the 'Waldhalle at Schmalsee – Schmalsee loop'. For runners, there are numerous trails, including the 'Hellbachtal Forest Nature Spot – Hein-Hollenbek Railway Path loop'. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the dedicated guides for Cycling around Schmalsee, MTB Trails around Schmalsee, and Running Trails around Schmalsee.
Yes, a popular hiking trail encircles the entire Schmalsee, offering insights into the nature of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park. This approximately 45-minute walk is particularly colorful in autumn. The Shore Path at Schmalsee and Lütauer See is another excellent option, close to the water and mostly under trees, with good terrain.
The Schmalsee region is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly recommended. During this season, the wooded shores reflect vibrant colors on the water's surface, making the hiking trail around the lake especially picturesque. The area offers a high recreational value throughout the warmer months for various outdoor activities.
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful landscape and the well-maintained hiking trails. Many find the area around Schmalsee to be a fantastic lake with many possibilities for exploration. The peaceful atmosphere, especially for anglers, and the scenic views from spots like the East shore of the Schmalsee are also highly appreciated.
Yes, on the northern shore of Schmalsee, you'll find the 'Waldhalle' restaurant and hotel, which offers views of the lake. The nearby town of Mölln also provides various options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation.
Yes, Schmalsee is a good spot for anglers seeking peaceful hours. The lake is home to various native fish species and features an interesting shore structure with numerous spots for shore fishing. More information can be found on the Mölln tourism website: Angelrevier Schmalsee.
A full hike around the Schmalsee typically takes approximately 45 minutes. This circular trail provides a comprehensive experience of the lake's natural surroundings.
The Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, where Schmalsee is located, generally welcomes dogs, but it's always advisable to keep them on a leash, especially in nature protection areas and during breeding seasons, to protect local wildlife. Specific dog-friendly swimming areas or off-leash zones may vary, so check local signage.
The Carmen Langmaack Bridge on the Schmalsee is a wooden bridge that connects the Schmalsee and Lütauer See. It is part of the Carmen Langmaack Trail, a beautiful footpath established in memory of Carmen Langmaack, who left a legacy to the town of Mölln to promote nature conservation and environmental education.


Still not found your perfect lake around Schmalsee? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.