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.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
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 • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
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
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.
17
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.
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.
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.
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
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 🐟
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.
15
4
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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