Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Germany
Schleswig-Holstein

Plön

Attractions and Places To See around Plön - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Plön are centered in the heart of Holstein Switzerland, a region characterized by its numerous lakes and varied landscapes. The town of Plön itself is known for its historical landmarks and its position on the Great Plön Lake. Visitors can explore a blend of natural beauty and cultural sites, offering diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and those interested in local history. The area provides opportunities for activities such as cycling, hiking, and water sports on its many lakes.

Best attractions and places to see around Plön

  • The most popular attractions is Sehlendorfer Binnensee Nature Reserve, an other_natural area with narrow wooden bridges and beautiful nature. It features a vantage point with views of the Sehlendorf inland lake and bird breeding grounds, along with information boards about bird species.
  • Another must-see spot is Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, a beach with a wonderful view of Plön Castle from the jetty. The Princes' Island, where the beach is located, was once owned by Emperor Wilhelm II and offers a scenic environment with a farmhouse now serving as a restaurant.
  • Visitors also love Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), a lake highlight known for its idyllic bays and small beaches. The Great Plön Lake is the largest and deepest lake in Schleswig-Holstein, offering opportunities for sailing and boat rentals.
  • Plön is known for its extensive lake system, historical sites, and numerous cycle paths. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from natural reserves to historical monuments and beaches.
  • The attractions around Plön are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2600 upvotes and over 220 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Baltic Sea Cycle Path: Brasilien to Kalifornien

Highlight • Cycleway

Very good and scenic cycle path between Brazil and California. The path is paved throughout and wide enough to cope with the heavy cyclist traffic. There are also plenty of opportunities to take a short break at the bathing spots and watch the cruise ships and container ships coming and going.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Baltic Sea beach on Kiel Bay

Highlight • Beach

Great wide bike path right on the beach

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

Moin, moin and welcome on board!

We are pleased to welcome you to the website of the Great Plön Lake Tour and the Bosau Tour.

You can experience the picturesque beauty of the Great Plön Lake, the largest lake in our state, up close on our shipping lines. On a trip through the romantic island paradise, you can see a variety of water birds that are native to the "Plöner See" nature reserve. You might even spot the sea eagle, which has become native here again. With its wooded banks and over 30 islands, the Plön Lake is probably one of the most scenic in Germany.

The view of the Plön Castle and the Princes' Island also make the trip an experience.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Laboe Naval Memorial

Highlight • Monument

It is impressive and frightening at the same time how close the memorial and cenotaph are to each other. This is certainly being discussed locally.

It is worth not only climbing the tower and enjoying the beautiful view and looking at the ship models in the museum, but also entering the flag room in the tower and the underground memorial under the square between the tower and the museum.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Cycle Path Along the Beach at Marina Wendtorf

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Beautiful, wide asphalt path right along the beach. During the high/summer season, however, this path is heavily frequented by pedestrians/swimmers, so careful cycling is advisable 😉

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

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 •

Tip by

Save

Almost adventurous crossings over narrow wooden bridges. Very beautiful nature. Almost wilderness. Whether you like it or not, you have to cross the pasture with the robust cattle before continuing your journey. But the cattle completely ignore the cyclists. No danger!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Schönberg Beach

Highlight (Segment) • Beach

This is a beautiful stretch of beach with a wide paved path directly behind the dunes. In summer, this path is heavily used by pedestrians and cyclists, so you have to be careful when cycling. 😉

Although you can't see the beach/water directly from this path (due to the dunes), there are "walkthroughs" to the beach every few hundred meters.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

From here you can wonderfully see the Plön Castle. Ideal to take a break. A park bench is also available. Idyllic: A small stream flows here into the great Plöner See. You have to take the small path down to the water from the main path.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

The Princes' Island was purchased by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and is still owned by the House of Hohenzollern today. Forest, swampy terrain, a sandy beach and four large paddocks characterize the landscape. The sons of the last emperor once learned about farming here. Their mother, Empress Auguste Victoria, enjoyed her idyllic favorite places here, far away from court life.

prinzeninsel.de

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Plön.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Plön

The Monks' Trail – From Bremen to the Baltic Sea

The National Natural Landscapes in Schleswig-Holstein

Enjoy nature and culture – Holsteinische-Schweiz Cycle Tour

Culinary cycle tours on Germany’s Baltic coast

Glorious views and cultural highlights on Schleswig-Holstein’s Baltic coast

Baltic Sea Coast Cycle Route – Schleswig-Holstein's most popular long-distance cycle route

Magic Moments — 6 magical places in Germany and Denmark

Bicycle touring on the Baltic Sea Cycle Path

33 lakes for sunny weekends

D-Route 2: Baltic Coast Route

Other adventures around Plön

The Monks' Trail – From Bremen to the Baltic Sea

Cycling Collection by

Hannah

Tips from the Community

Rüdiger M
May 25, 2025, Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See)

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

200 lakes close together, with Schleswig-Holstein's largest lake at its center: that's Holstein Switzerland. It's not without reason that this "lake paradise" is one of the most popular vacation regions for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and those looking to slow down from the stresses of big city life. The Great Plön Lake, with its deep blue waters and pristine shoreline, entices visitors to spend relaxing holidays on, in, and around the lake. Whether paddling, sailing, fishing, swimming, diving, or golfing near the lake – the options are endless. Furthermore, the 30 square kilometer expanse of water with a depth of 58 meters invites you to enjoy relaxing lake views. And all around the lake, picturesque towns like Plön, Bosau, and Dersau boast a wealth of culture, history, and nature. It's no wonder this lake has been awarded the seal of "Schleswig-Holstein's Favorite Lake" several times in a row.

Translated by Google

14

1

Rental of canoes, kayaks, SUP boards for individual and guided tours across the lakes and the Schwentine. The Malenter Kanucenter by Bottervogel is located just a few minutes' walk from Malenter train station, directly opposite the Dieksee promenade. Canoes (Canadians), kayaks and SUP boards as well as the necessary accessories such as paddles, life jackets and barrels for waterproof transport of smartphones and other valuables can be rented here. Groups, families and individuals can paddle across the lakes and the Schwentine either independently or - by prior arrangement - as part of a guided tour.

Translated by Google

17

1

Rental and sale of kayaks and Canadian canoes. Boats and accessories are also available for purchase. Boats Keusen, located in the Eutin district of Fissau, is just 130 m from the water hiking car park at the start of the Schwentine water hiking trail. Here you can not only rent kayaks and Canadian canoes, but also buy your own boats - the range includes kayaks, Canadian canoes, pedal boats, SUPs and fishing boats. For a fee, transport and collection of the rented canoes can be arranged.

Translated by Google

16

0

From 1-person kayaks to 10-person canoes with equipment and instructions If someone has arrived without a canoe, they don't have to miss out on the fun of paddling. The rental stations in Malente, Plön, Eutin and Bosau offer everyone the opportunity to rent a canoe or kayak including accessories and you usually also receive a short instruction.

Translated by Google

18

1

Boat rental near the campsite on Lake Plön offers canoe and kayak rentals and a pick-up service. The Plön canoe rental is located on the Schwentine water hiking trail and has a variety of canoes and kayaks for rent. In addition, a transport and pick-up service can be booked, which brings the boats to the starting point of the paddling tour and picks them up again at the destination. Guided canoe tours can be booked for groups of 20 people or more. In addition to canoes, sailing boats, fishing boats, rowing and pedal boats, dragon boats and stand-up paddling (SUP) boards can also be rented. The staff provide tips on paddling and help plan your paddling tour. Kanovermietung_Plön©TI GPS Tatjana Kay

Translated by Google

18

1

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

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.

Translated by Google

16

4

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural attractions can I explore around Plön?

Plön is nestled in the heart of Holstein Switzerland, offering a wealth of natural beauty. You can visit the Sehlendorfer Binnensee Nature Reserve, known for its narrow wooden bridges and bird breeding grounds. The region's largest lake, the Great Plön Lake, features highlights like Sterin Island with its idyllic bays and small beaches, and Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, offering scenic views. Don't miss the panoramic vistas from the Parnass Tower, overlooking the lakes and countryside.

What historical sites are there to visit in Plön?

Plön boasts a rich history, with several notable landmarks. The iconic Plön Castle, a 17th-century structure, dominates the skyline and offers guided tours of its grounds. The charming Old Town features historic buildings and cobbled streets, including the town hall. You can also explore the Rococo-style Princes' House, which once housed the sons of Emperor Wilhelm II, and the historic Nikolaikirche, known for its acoustics and concerts.

Are there family-friendly activities around Plön?

Yes, Plön offers several family-friendly options. The Sehlendorfer Binnensee Nature Reserve provides an engaging experience with its unique wooden bridges and wildlife viewing opportunities. Beaches like Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Lake Passade offer swimming areas, playgrounds, and space for relaxation. The Plöner Planet Path, a 2.8-kilometer lakeside trail with model planets, is also a fun and educational outing for families.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Plön's attractions?

The Plön region is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy various water sports like swimming, sailing, and canoeing on the Great Plön Lake. For land-based activities, there are numerous opportunities for hiking, cycling, and trail running within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. Consider exploring routes like the 'Plön Lakes Circular Trail' for hiking or the 'Culinary loop of Lake Plön' for cycling. Find more routes in the Hiking around Plön or Cycling around Plön guides.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints around Plön?

For breathtaking views, head to the Parnass Tower, which offers magnificent panoramic vistas of Plön, its lakes, and the surrounding countryside. Another excellent spot is the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, providing a picturesque perspective of the lake. The Baltic Sea beach on Kiel Bay also offers beautiful coastal views.

Are there any boat tours available on the lakes?

Yes, you can experience the region's beauty from the water with the Five Lakes Tour (5-Seen-Fahrt). This scenic two-hour round trip takes you across five of the area's lakes: Dieksee, Langensee, Behlersee, Höftsee, and Edebergsee, offering a relaxing way to appreciate the lake landscape.

What cultural experiences does Plön offer?

Plön has a vibrant cultural scene. The Culture Forum in the Old Indoor Swimming Pool, a historic building, now serves as a concert and exhibition hall. The Local History Museum (Heimatmuseum Plön) provides insights into the town's past. Additionally, the town hosts the annual Plön Jazz Festival, contributing to its lively atmosphere.

Can I go swimming in the lakes around Plön?

Absolutely! The Great Plön Lake is perfect for swimming, with clear waters and numerous idyllic bays and small beaches. Lake Passade also features a particularly beautiful and large swimming area with a lawn and playground, making it a great spot for a refreshing dip.

What is the best season for visiting Plön?

The best season to visit Plön largely depends on your preferred activities. The warmer months from April to October are ideal for outdoor pursuits like hiking, cycling, and water sports, when attractions like the Parnass Tower are typically open. The region's natural beauty, especially the lakes and forests, is stunning in spring and autumn, while summer offers the most opportunities for swimming and boating.

Are there any unique historical monuments or landmarks near Plön?

Beyond Plön Castle, you can visit the Laboe Naval Memorial, a significant man-made monument with historical importance and a viewpoint. Another unique historical site is the Langenrader Mühle Sventana, an impressive wind turbine that has been operating for over 130 years, showcasing local heritage and engineering.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Plön?

Visitors frequently praise the diverse natural beauty, especially the extensive lake system and the serene environment of the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. The historical charm of Plön's Old Town and landmarks like Plön Castle are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the opportunities for outdoor activities, from cycling along scenic paths like the Baltic Sea Cycle Path to exploring nature reserves and relaxing on the beautiful beaches.

Most popular routes around Plön

Cycling around Plön

Most popular attractions around Plön

Lakes

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

Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Are you keen on exploring more awesome places nearby? Browse our guides:

StakendorfRosenseeKalübbeHöhndorfSchwentinentalLebradeHonigseeBothkampBelauBönebüttelLutterbekBehrensdorfHögsdorfKirchnüchelHelmstorfHohwachtSchönberg (Holstein)GiekauRastorfKlein BarkauHeikendorfMönkebergKührenMartensradeKirchseeViererseePostseeGroßer BinnenseeGroßer Plöner LakeTröndelPohnsdorfLaboeNettelseeKrummbekWankendorfRuhwinkelFahrenDobersdorfKirchbarkauTrammer LakeSchönkirchenFargau-PratjauPostfeldPassader LakeGrebinKöhnNehmtenFiefbergenLöptinSuhrer See Und UmgebungHalbinseln Und Buchten Im Lanker SeeSchierenseeBarmissenSchellhornWarnauWendtorfBarsbekBösdorfProbsteierhagenKletkampRendswührenLütjenburgLanker LakeStoltenbergNehmtener ForstPrasdorfSuhrer LakeWahlstorfGroßharrieSchillsdorfWittmoldtSelenter LakeKrokauDörnickBrodersdorfPankerGroßbarkauFuhlenseeRantzauDannauSchlesenBendfeldRathjensdorfLehmkuhlenKührener TeichBlekendorfKlampBehler LakeSelentMuchelnBokseeBothkamper LakeSchöhseeWielener LakeSehlendorfer BinnenseeSchwartbuckDersauDobersdorfer LakeLammershagenPassadeBelauer LakeHöftseeTasdorf

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Lehmkuhlen

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