4.6
(743)
3,761
hikers
288
hikes
Hiking around Büttel offers trails primarily characterized by flat terrain along waterways and coastal areas. The region features prominent dikes, the Kiel Canal, and proximity to the North Sea and Elbe River. This landscape provides opportunities for walks with views of shipping traffic and local wildlife.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.5
(4)
16
hikers
14.1km
03:34
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
22
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
9
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
hikers
3.85km
00:58
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A particularly worthwhile sight in the evening.
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It's always good to know where one is. I always mark it on longer trips. The bench next to it is very helpful when doing repairs.
2
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Everything necessary is there to make small improvements to the bike.
1
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The Kudensee pumping station is an important technical structure in Schleswig-Holstein, which was built in 1895 during the construction of the Kiel Canal. It is used to drain the surrounding marshlands and ensures that the water from the catchment area is drained into the canal. The catchment area covers around 7,978 hectares. The pumping station was newly built in 2003/2004 and renovated in 2022 to meet current technical requirements. It has three pumps with a total discharge capacity of 6.0 m³/s, each of which can pump 2.0 m³/s. These powerful pumps ensure effective drainage and flood protection for the region. Kudensee itself is a small community in the Steinburg district, which is known not only for the pumping station but also for its attractive surroundings. The region around Lake Kudensee is an important nature reserve that provides habitat for a variety of bird species and rare plants. The reed zones and wet meadows in particular are important biotopes for numerous waders and water birds as well as protected plant species.
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The outer dike of St. Margarethen is located near the Elbe and is now an important bird sanctuary. Originally, this area was part of a dike system that protected the hinterland from flooding. Over time, the harbor creek became increasingly silted up and port operations were discontinued. Today, the outer dike provides an important habitat for numerous bird species and is a popular destination for nature observation and cycling tours. The outer dike and the surrounding area are ideal for hikes and bike rides along the Elbe, with wonderful views of the passing ships. Historically, the area was also the site of a pilot station, but this was not rebuilt after a fire in 1902.
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a wonderful piece of sandy beach with a wonderful view of the Elbe, but I would not swim here
3
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Great routes along the NOK, when driving west/east you usually even have a tailwind 😜!
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Hiking around Büttel is characterized by its flat terrain, primarily along waterways and coastal areas. You'll find paths along prominent dikes, the Kiel Canal, and near the North Sea and Elbe River, offering views of shipping traffic and local wildlife. The routes are generally easy to moderate, making them suitable for various activity levels.
There are nearly 300 hiking routes available around Büttel. The majority, over 200, are considered easy, with 77 moderate routes and a few more challenging options.
Yes, many routes around Büttel are circular. For example, the easy Shipspotting at the Kiel Canal – Hohenhörn High Bridge loop from Kudensee is a 4.0-mile (6.4 km) trail offering views of the Kiel Canal. Another option is the easy Hohenhörn High Bridge – High bridge Brunsbüttel loop from Averlak, which is about 3.8 miles (6.1 km).
The hiking trails in Büttel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 650 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique experience of walking along dikes and canals, observing shipping traffic, and enjoying the open landscapes.
Yes, with over 200 easy routes, Büttel offers many family-friendly hiking options. The flat terrain along dikes and waterways is generally suitable for all ages. For instance, the Shipspotting at the Kiel Canal – Hohenhörn High Bridge loop from Kudensee is an easy 4.0-mile (6.4 km) loop that can be completed in under two hours, perfect for a family outing.
Many of the trails around Büttel are suitable for dogs, especially the open dike paths and riverside walks. Always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of local regulations, particularly around livestock like dike sheep, and nature reserve areas such as the Kudensee Nature Reserve.
While hiking around Büttel, you can explore several interesting natural features and landmarks. Highlights include the Kudensee Nature Reserve, the scenic Elbe Cycle Path at Brokdorf, and the unique experience of the Brunsbüttel Canal Ferry at the Locks. You might also spot the Hohenhörn High Bridge over the Kiel Canal.
Yes, the region around Büttel features several lakes and water bodies. Notable spots include the Kudensee Nature Reserve, Herthateich, and the Old Burg Harbor (Idyllic Pond). These areas offer opportunities for nature observation and tranquil walks.
Hikes in Büttel vary in duration. Many easy routes, like the St. Margarethen Church – St. Margarethen Rear Range Light loop from Sankt Margarethen (3.0 miles / 4.8 km), can be completed in about an hour and 12 minutes. Longer moderate routes, such as the Kudensee Pumping Station – Kiel Canal loop from Kudensee (8.8 miles / 14.1 km), typically take around 3 hours and 33 minutes.
The trails around Büttel offer scenic views primarily of the waterways and open landscapes. You'll find excellent spots for shipspotting along the Kiel Canal, particularly near the Hohenhörn High Bridge. The dike paths also provide panoramic views of the North Sea and Elbe River, often with grazing dike sheep adding to the picturesque scenery.
The broader region around Büttel, including areas like Wasbüttel and Wennbüttel, is particularly beautiful in spring and summer when nature is vibrant. Autumn also offers mystical views in forested areas like the Eichenhain. Given the coastal and waterway focus, hiking is generally pleasant from spring through autumn, with the open landscapes providing unique experiences even in cooler weather.
Yes, you can find some cultural points of interest. For example, the St. Wulphardi Church in Freiburg (Elbe) is a notable religious building in the vicinity. Additionally, experiencing the Brunsbüttel Canal Ferry at the Locks offers a glimpse into the region's maritime heritage.


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