Top 20 Lakes around Dörnick
Best lakes around Dörnick are situated in a region characterized by a hilly moraine landscape, often referred to as Holstein Switzerland. The area is known for its numerous lakes, including Großer Plöner See, one of the largest in the state. These lakes offer diverse natural settings, from serene shores to islands and forested banks. The landscape provides opportunities for exploring natural beauty and experiencing the local environment.
Best lakes around Dörnick
- The most popular lakes is Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel,…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge
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Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See)
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View of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake
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Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel
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At Trentsee
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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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The Trentsee (near Malente) is a lake in the middle of Timmdorf in the municipality of Malente in Schleswig-Holstein. It is located in Holstein Switzerland and is surrounded by a hilly moraine landscape.
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The Trentsee has an oval basic shape, which has a long branch to the northwest with a length of about 400 m and a width (in a north-south direction) of about 200 m. It has a size of about 4 hectares, a maximum depth of 7.3 meters and drains into the Behler See in the west. In the north, the lake is crossed by the Kiel-Lübeck railway line.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in Dörnick?
Yes, many lakes in the Dörnick region offer family-friendly activities. For instance, Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel provides sandy beaches perfect for families, along with views of Plön Castle. The Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) also features idyllic bays and small beaches suitable for a family outing. Additionally, the Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente, with its cold spring water basins, can be a refreshing and unique experience for all ages along a hiking trail.
What kind of wildlife can I observe near the lakes in Dörnick?
The lakes around Dörnick, particularly Großer Plöner See, are known for their diverse wildlife. You can observe a variety of water birds, and there's a chance to spot the sea eagle, which has become native to the 'Plöner See' nature reserve again. Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) is notable for its cormorant colonies, though their presence can impact local vegetation.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the Dörnick lakes?
While specific designated wild swimming spots are not detailed, the region's numerous lakes, including Großer Plöner See, offer many idyllic bays and small beaches. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is a popular beach area where swimming is common. Always check local regulations and safety guidelines before swimming in undesignated areas.
What are the best times to visit the lakes around Dörnick?
The lakes around Dörnick are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water activities, hiking, and enjoying the beaches. The autumn foliage offers picturesque views, and even in winter, the landscape can be serene, though specific winter activities might be limited to ice skating if conditions allow, or simply enjoying peaceful walks.
Are there any historical sites or unique natural features near the lakes?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical elements. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is on Prinzeninsel, an island historically owned by the House of Hohenzollern. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente, originally fish breeding ponds from the 19th century, are now a unique natural Kneipp facility. The View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge offers views of Plön Castle, adding a historical backdrop to the natural scenery.
Can I rent boats or go sailing on the lakes?
Yes, boat rentals and sailing opportunities are available, particularly on Großer Plöner See. Near the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, you can find canoe and kayak rentals, with services including transport and pick-up. A sailing school on Lake Plön offers a wide range of courses and rentals for sailing boats, pedal boats, rowing boats, and SUPs.
Are there easy walking or circular trails around the Dörnick lakes?
Yes, the area offers various trails suitable for easy walks and circular routes. The Mirror Ponds and Kneipp Pool, Malente are located along a hiking trail above Dieksee. For more structured routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Dörnick guide, which includes routes like the 'Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön – Plön Castle loop from Plön' (8.9 km, moderate difficulty).
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides walking?
Beyond walking, the Dörnick lake region is excellent for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes in the Cycling around Dörnick guide, including easy loops like 'Plön Castle loop from Plön' (17.3 km). For mountain biking, the MTB Trails around Dörnick guide offers routes such as 'View of Plön Castle – Olsborg Island loop from Plön' (22.8 km, easy).
Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, you can find dining options near some of the lakes. For example, near At Trentsee, the country inn Kasch is highly recommended for those feeling hungry. The farmhouse on Prinzeninsel, near Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, also houses a tourist restaurant.
What makes the lakes around Dörnick unique?
The lakes around Dörnick are unique due to their setting within Holstein Switzerland, a hilly moraine landscape. This creates a diverse environment with expansive lakes, smaller ponds, and natural islands. Großer Plöner See, one of the largest in the state, features a romantic island paradise with over 30 islands and wooded banks, offering picturesque views and a rich natural habitat.
Is public transport available to reach the lakes in Dörnick?
While specific public transport routes to every lake are not detailed, the region is generally accessible. The Trentsee, for instance, is crossed by the Kiel-Lübeck railway line, suggesting train access to some areas. For detailed public transport information, it is advisable to check local transport schedules for the specific lake you plan to visit.
Are there any lakes suitable for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs?
While specific wheelchair-accessible trails are not explicitly highlighted for all lakes, some areas with facilities or paved paths might be more accessible. For example, viewpoints like the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge might offer easier access. It is recommended to check specific location details or contact local tourist information for up-to-date accessibility information.
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