Best attractions and places to see around Schmalensee include its namesake lake and the surrounding "Holstein Switzerland" region. This municipality in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offers a tranquil setting with access to natural beauty and nearby cultural attractions. The area is characterized by numerous lakes, including the Großer Plöner See, and provides opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes and historical landmarks within a short distance.
Last updated: October 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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Six forest paths lead from this pavilion in different directions.
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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 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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Sailing school on Lake Plön with boat rental for pedal boats, rowing boats, SUP and sailing courses. The Plön sailing school offers a wide range of courses from May to October, with something for everyone: just a taster of sailing, courses for beginners, intensive advanced courses or sailing with a catamaran are all possible at the Plön sailing school as an individual, group or even class. There are also special sailing courses for children. Great group tours with dragon boats, canoes or sailing boats are ideal for your active holiday or as a team building event. In addition to sailing boats, fishing boats, rowing and pedal boats, dragon boats and stand-up paddling boards can be rented.
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Canoe pier directly on the Prince's Island Here you have the opportunity to moor and go to the beach opposite the Prince's Island. There are free toilets and a snack bar with seating. In the high season there is also a bathing jetty. The local restaurant is also well worth a visit - the "Restaurant & Cafe Prinzeninsel", which is only a few minutes' walk from the pier.
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Stand Up Paddling in the SUP area of Lake Plön As a SUP water, the Plön Lake District is suitable for both one-day SUP tours and a multi-day SUP trip. On the twelve natural lakes around Plön, water hiking on a stand-up paddling board never gets boring: enjoy the expanse of Lake Plön or experience sightseeing and amazing SUP spots in Plön's city bay - which can also be navigated with a SUP in winter. Of course, you should think about the right SUP clothing in winter here! The SUP piers in Plön are particularly practical: directly on the in-house jetty in the Seeprinz, picnic in the Plön boat harbor or a natural beach on the fishing grounds with various restaurants. And if you prefer something quieter, head for a secluded bay on the shore. Please adhere to the rules in the nature reserve and the general SUP rules. You can rent SUPs by the hour at the Wiederich sailing school.
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The region is primarily known for its lakes. The namesake Schmalensee Lake offers a serene environment. Nearby, the Großer Plöner See, the largest inland body of water in Schleswig-Holstein, is a major draw. You can visit specific spots like Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, which provides views of Plön Castle, or explore Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its cormorant colonies. The area also features natural spaces like Wildlife Park Eekholt and ErlebnisWald Trappenkamp.
While Schmalensee itself is small, the broader region offers historical landmarks. Plön Castle, situated near the Großer Plöner See, is a significant historic building. You can enjoy views of it from the southern shore of the lake, for example, from the View of the Großer Plöner See from the southern shore. Additionally, the Karl May Festival in nearby Bad Segeberg is a notable cultural event.
Many attractions are family-friendly. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, for instance, features a sandy beach, facilities, and a playground. The Großer Plöner See offers numerous bathing areas and water sports like canoeing and stand-up paddling. ErlebnisWald Trappenkamp is an adventure forest providing an immersive natural experience suitable for families.
Yes, the area around Schmalensee is well-suited for hiking. There are several easy hikes available, such as the 'View of the Schmalensee – Schmalensee Bathing Area loop' (5.8 km) or the 'Hiking loop from Belau' (4.0 km). You can find more options and detailed routes in the Easy hikes around Schmalensee guide.
Beyond hiking, the region is excellent for cycling and running. For gravel biking, routes like the 'View of Großer Plöner See – Lakeside Path on Lake Plön loop' (29.1 km) are popular. Runners can explore trails such as the 'Bathing Area at Stocksee – Stocksee Lakeside Trail loop' (14.6 km). More routes are available in the Gravel biking around Schmalensee guide and Running Trails around Schmalensee guide.
Visitors appreciate the stunning views, especially of Plön Castle from various points around the Großer Plöner See. The serene environment of the lakes and the opportunity for refreshing swims after a long day are also highly valued. Many enjoy the secluded spots surrounded by beautiful nature, perfect for relaxation and recharging.
Absolutely. The View of the Großer Plöner See from the southern shore offers fantastic panoramic views across the lake, including a clear perspective of Plön Castle. Additionally, the Siebenstern Picnic Shelter provides a lovely spot for a break with a lake view.
The summer months are ideal for enjoying the lakes, with numerous bathing areas and water sports opportunities on Großer Plöner See. The region's natural beauty, with its forests and lakes, makes it appealing for hiking and cycling throughout spring, summer, and autumn. Each season offers a unique charm for outdoor activities.
Yes, the region is generally dog-friendly, especially for walks in nature. Hundewald Trappenkamp is a dedicated forest area suitable for dog walking, allowing your canine companions to enjoy the outdoors freely.
The Siebenstern Picnic Shelter is a notable spot, offering a place to rest with a lake view. Many of the beaches, such as Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, also provide facilities like kiosks, toilets, and showers, making them convenient for longer stays.
The area is rich with hidden gems for those who venture off the main paths. Exploring the numerous smaller lakes and forests can reveal secluded spots. The various farmsteads like Gut Stockseehof and Käsehof Biss might offer unique local products or experiences, providing a glimpse into the region's agricultural heritage.


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