Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Natural Monuments
Germany
Schleswig-Holstein
Plön

Rantzau

Top 20 Natural Monuments around Rantzau

Best natural monuments around Rantzau are characterized by a landscape rich in lakes, forests, and historical markers. The region, encompassing parts of Holsteinische Schweiz, offers diverse natural attractions. These include significant lakes with islands and scenic viewpoints, as well as unique natural and man-made features. Visitors can explore areas known for their ecological importance and recreational opportunities.

Best natural monuments around Rantzau

  • The most popular natural monuments is Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), a lake feature known for cormorant…

Last updated: May 11, 2026

Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See)

Highlight • Lake

In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Kellersee borders Malente to the east. It has a total area of approximately 50.6 hectares and a maximum depth of approximately 27 meters. A 14.6 km hiking trail surrounds the …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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

The mirror ponds are located directly above the Dieksee. The hiking trail runs between Dieksee and the mirror ponds. Originally laid out in the 19th century as fish breeding ponds, …

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

15.08.2012 — In Eutin: Like the Little Mermaid of Copenhagen · Bronze sculpture "The Watcher" by Karlheinz Goedtke, on the Great Eutin Lake since 1994 ...

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Schwentine Bridge Timmdorf

Highlight • Bridge

A small narrow bridge

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Rantzau.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Rantzau

Cycling around Rantzau

Hiking around Rantzau

Gravel biking around Rantzau

MTB Trails around Rantzau

Road Cycling Routes around Rantzau

Running Trails around Rantzau

Tips from the Community

Rüdiger M
June 27, 2025, Schwentine Bridge Timmdorf

The Dieksee is a lake in Holstein Switzerland. It covers 386 hectares, has a maximum length of approximately 3.4 km and a maximum width of 1.6 km. The lake is up to 38 m deep and lies approximately 22 m above sea level. The Schwentine River flows through it from east to west.

Translated by Google

17

1

A small narrow bridge

Translated by Google

18

1

Discover Holstein Switzerland from the water Come aboard the white fleet and discover the unique natural landscape of Holstein Switzerland! On the beautiful 5-Lakes Cruise or Kellersee Cruise, you'll experience Holstein Switzerland from a completely new perspective. Lake cruises are an experience not only on warm summer days, but also in inclement weather. On our heated boats – some with catering – even the dreariest rainy day can be enjoyed.

Translated by Google

16

1

In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known example of the destructive effect of cormorant droppings, which virtually destroy vegetation. There was also a cormorant colony on an island in Lake Selent, which was later abandoned and subsequently recovered.

Translated by Google

24

1

Ponds located in the Diekseeholm forest area, which were formerly used for fish farming. These natural attractions in Malente were created in 1869 for the breeding of noble fish. The ponds are fed by fresh spring water from the "Diekseeholm" forest area. They are connected to each other by small streams and channels. The ponds get their name because the surrounding trees are particularly beautifully reflected in the calm, smooth water. In the immediate vicinity of the Spiegelteiche (Mirror Ponds) is one of Malente's Kneipp facilities: a natural water treading pool and an arm-kneading pool.

Translated by Google

12

0

This lake also offers great opportunities for anglers. You can catch eels, perch, bream, pike, tench, zander, carp, roach, rudd, and burbot. For further important information and legal regulations regarding this fishing area, as well as for fishing permits, please contact: Schwarten Fishing Tenant Kellerstraße 52 23714 Bad Malente-Gremsmühlen Tel.: +49 4523 3563

Translated by Google

12

1

Kellersee borders Malente to the east. It has a total area of approximately 50.6 hectares and a maximum depth of approximately 27 meters. A 14.6 km hiking trail surrounds the lake, including several highlights along the way. These include, for example, the "WunderWeltWasser" nature trail for all ages and the Rothensande estate, the original setting for the Immenhof films. Kellersee can be explored by both excursion boats and sailboats. Canoe trips from Eutin-Fissau are also possible, and there is also a swimming area here. Other swimming areas can be found in Wöbbensredder or at Hamburger Strand in Sielbeck. The swimming areas in Sielbeck and Fissau are unguarded. Anglers also have plenty of opportunities here, as the lake has a good population of zander, pike, and sea bass. Numerous waterfowl can also be observed here. This lake also offers great opportunities for anglers. You can catch eels, perch, bream, pike, tench, zander, carp, and others 🐟

Translated by Google

13

0

The Great Plön Lake attracts visitors in summer with bathing areas and good water sports opportunities. In addition to beautiful hikes and boat trips, a stroll through the small town of Plön is also worthwhile. With an area of around 28 square kilometers, the Great Plön Lake is the largest inland body of water in Schleswig-Holstein.

Translated by Google

15

4

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique natural features can I discover around Rantzau?

The region around Rantzau, particularly within the broader Holsteinische Schweiz, offers a landscape rich in lakes and unique natural formations. You can explore sites like Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its cormorant colonies and ecological significance, or the Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente, which feature historical fish breeding ponds now used as cold spring water Kneipp basins.

Are there any historical natural monuments in the Rantzau area?

Yes, the most prominent historical natural monument in the immediate Rantzau area is the Rantzau Stone. This erratic boulder, located near Klein Gladebrügge, bears an inscription from 1575 commemorating Frederick II's reign and Heinrich Rantzau's 50th birthday. Additionally, the Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente, while natural, have a historical past as 19th-century fish breeding ponds.

What are the best natural viewpoints around Rantzau?

For stunning vistas, visit Kellersee — Lakeside view at Sielbeck, which offers picturesque views over the lake in Holstein Switzerland. Another notable spot is the Schwentine Bridge Timmdorf, providing a scenic perspective over the river and surrounding nature.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit near Rantzau?

Absolutely. Many natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) offers insights into local wildlife and boat rental opportunities. The Kellersee — Lakeside view at Sielbeck features a nature trail and opportunities for observing waterfowl. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente provide a unique natural experience with cold spring water basins. Even the historical 'Schauende' statue in the Great Eutin Lake is considered family-friendly.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and gravel biking. For example, explore the easy hikes around Rantzau, or challenge yourself on the running trails. Gravel biking enthusiasts can discover routes like the 'View of Lake Dieksee – Schwentine Bridge Timmdorf loop' among the gravel biking routes around Rantzau.

Are there hiking trails around the natural monuments?

Yes, several natural monuments are surrounded by or feature hiking trails. A 14.6 km hiking trail encircles the Kellersee, offering scenic views and access to nature. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente are also accessible via hiking paths. You can find more options in the easy hikes around Rantzau guide.

What kind of wildlife can be observed near the natural monuments?

The lakes in the region are particularly rich in wildlife. Sterin Island in Großer Plöner See is well-known for its cormorant colonies. Around Kellersee, you can observe numerous waterfowl, and anglers can find zander, pike, and sea bass. The surrounding forests also host various bird species and other local fauna.

Is the Rantzau region suitable for dog-friendly outings?

Yes, the natural areas around Rantzau are generally dog-friendly. For instance, the trails and lakeside views around Kellersee — Lakeside view at Sielbeck are suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure your dog is on a leash where required and respect local regulations, especially in nature protection areas.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Rantzau?

Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil beauty of the lakes, the opportunities for active recreation like hiking and cycling, and the unique natural features. The ecological significance of sites like Sterin Island and the historical context of the Mirror Ponds also draw considerable interest. The overall peaceful atmosphere and scenic viewpoints are often highlighted.

Are there opportunities for water sports or activities on the lakes?

Yes, the large lakes in the area offer various water activities. On the Großer Plöner See, near Sterin Island, you can find sailing schools with boat rentals for pedal boats, rowing boats, SUP, and sailing courses. Kellersee also allows for exploration by excursion boats, sailboats, and canoe trips, with several swimming areas available.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Rantzau?

The natural monuments around Rantzau are beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, water sports, and enjoying lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, perfect for scenic walks. Even in winter, the serene, often snow-dusted landscapes around the lakes can be very picturesque, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Most popular routes around Rantzau

Cycling around Rantzau

Most popular attractions around Rantzau

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Rantzau:

WahlstorfSchellhornKletkampKührenNehmtenWittmoldtDersauDörnickBlekendorfKirchnüchelLehmkuhlenBösdorfLebradeKalübbeMuchelnBelauRathjensdorfBokseeDannauHögsdorfGrebinHelmstorfHeikendorfFahrenSchönkirchenLaboeBehrensdorfGiekauProbsteierhagenPassadeHöhndorfKlein BarkauPostfeldHohwachtBarsbekBothkampPrasdorfBarmissenStoltenbergWendtorfBrodersdorfSchwentinentalPohnsdorfGroßbarkauHonigseeDobersdorfWarnauFargau-PratjauMönkebergWankendorfTröndelRendswührenFiefbergenKirchbarkauKrokauPankerSchönberg (Holstein)LöptinMartensradeLutterbekGroßer Plöner LakeLütjenburgKrummbekSchlesenSchwartbuckRuhwinkelBendfeldNettelseeStakendorfRastorfSchillsdorfGroßharrieKlampTasdorfBönebüttelKöhnLammershagenSelentSuhrer See Und UmgebungSuhrer LakeNehmtener Forst

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Dannauer Lake

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy