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.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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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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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
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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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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