Top 20 Natural Monuments around Rathjensdorf
Best natural monuments around Rathjensdorf are defined by the region's location within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, characterized by rolling hills, diverse forests, and over 200 lakes. This landscape, shaped by the last ice age, includes significant natural features like the Großer Plöner See and the Schwentine River. These areas collectively offer a rich natural experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best natural monuments around Rathjensdorf
- The most popular natural monuments is Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, a beach that offers views of…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See)
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Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel
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View of the Großer Plöner See
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Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente
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Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön
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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.
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From here you have a beautiful view of the lake
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I can't recommend the tour around Lake Plön. About 66% of the route is on unpaved, potholed forest paths. It's more of a hiking trail than a bike path. The route is very, very poorly signposted.
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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.
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In the west of the island is the approximately 100-meter-wide sandy beach. The gently sloping shore offers ideal bathing conditions for children. In summer, a DLRG post is manned here. But adults also experience the purest holiday atmosphere. With lush forest in the background, you have a relaxing view of the lake landscape. Small islands interrupt the calm surface of the water, in which the sun reflects when the weather is nice. Canoes, boats and stand-up paddlers move across the lake and take disturbing thoughts of everyday stress with them. This makes the island a place to switch off and recharge.
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Beach between the Princes' Island in the Great Plön Lake with a sandy beach and DLRG. At the end of the idyllic Princes' Island is the natural beach with a view of the sunset included. As a destination for a day trip or a rest stop, you should not miss the approximately 100 m wide, gently sloping sandy beach. The bathing area can only be reached on foot, by bike or by excursion boat. The bathing area is guarded by the DLRG and has a kiosk, toilet, shower, playground and in summer also a volleyball net. Parking spaces are located on the Ascheberger Chaussee (approx. 2 km to the bathing area).
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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.
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There is a ban on the use of boat engines on the Great Plöner Lake (with exceptions for commercial shipping and rescue services). For several years now, electric motors for fishing boats and sailing boats (calm pushers) have been allowed on the Great Plöner Lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features define the landscape around Rathjensdorf?
The natural landscape around Rathjensdorf is primarily defined by its location within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. This area is characterized by rolling hills, diverse forests, and over 200 lakes, a landscape shaped by the last ice age. Key features include the expansive Großer Plöner See and the meandering Schwentine River.
What are some popular natural monuments to visit near Rathjensdorf?
Visitors often enjoy the Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, which offers beautiful views of Plön Castle and is part of the historical Prinzeninsel. Another popular spot is Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its birdlife including cormorant colonies. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente also draw visitors with their historical significance and forest trails.
What kind of wildlife can I observe in the natural monuments around Rathjensdorf?
The region is rich in biodiversity. The Großer Plöner See, especially its nature reserve areas, is an important breeding ground for aquatic birds like white-tailed eagles, greylag geese, and goosanders. The Schwentine Oxbow Nature Reserve Trail is home to kingfishers, grey wagtails, and various amphibians. You can even find a dedicated Sea Eagle Observation Station north of Plön to spot these majestic birds.
Are there any historical natural monuments or sites with historical significance?
Yes, several natural monuments have historical ties. The Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is located on Prinzeninsel, once owned by Emperor Wilhelm II. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente were originally laid out in the 19th century as fish breeding ponds before becoming a natural Kneipp facility.
What makes the Großer Plöner See a significant natural monument?
The Großer Plöner See is the largest lake in Schleswig-Holstein and the tenth largest in Germany. It covers 28 square kilometers, reaches a depth of 56 meters, and is notable for its numerous islands, making it the most island-rich lake in the region. Its western part is a designated nature reserve, crucial for bird species like white-tailed eagles.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Rathjensdorf?
Many natural monuments in the area are family-friendly. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön offer swimming and relaxation. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente provide forest trails and a unique Kneipp experience. The Schwentine Bridge Timmdorf is also suitable for families exploring the river landscape.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers a wide array of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on various trails, including easy routes like the 'View of Lake Plön (Großer Plöner See) – Plön Castle loop' found in the Easy hikes around Rathjensdorf guide. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Langenrade Windmill Sventana – Plön Castle loop' available in the Road Cycling Routes around Rathjensdorf guide. For mountain biking, explore trails such as 'View of Plön Castle – Olsborg Island loop' from the MTB Trails around Rathjensdorf guide.
Are there opportunities for water-based activities?
Absolutely. The Großer Plöner See offers abundant opportunities for swimming, sailing, canoeing, and stand-up paddling, with thirteen official bathing spots. Scenic boat tours are also available from Plön and Bosau. The Schwentine River provides tranquil paddling experiences through picturesque natural scenery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Rathjensdorf?
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially from spots like Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, which offers a wonderful perspective of Plön Castle. The peaceful atmosphere, opportunities for birdwatching, and the chance to connect with nature through activities like swimming and hiking are also highly valued.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Rathjensdorf?
The Holstein Switzerland Nature Park is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, hiking, and cycling, with wildflowers in bloom. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and even winter walks can be picturesque, especially around the frozen lakes and forests. Birdwatching is excellent during migration seasons.
Are there facilities available at these natural monuments?
Some natural monuments, like Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön, offer facilities such as bathing spots and picnic areas. The historical farmhouse on Prinzeninsel now houses a tourist restaurant. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente feature a natural Kneipp facility and a covered rest area.
Where can I find unique natural experiences, like birdwatching?
For birdwatching, the nature reserve areas of the Großer Plöner See are excellent, particularly around Sterin Island where cormorant colonies can be observed. The Schwentine Oxbow Nature Reserve Trail is also a prime location for spotting various bird species. Additionally, a dedicated Sea Eagle Observation Station north of Plön provides a unique opportunity to view white-tailed eagles.
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