Attractions and Places To See around Zapel - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Zapel include a variety of natural and historical sites. Located in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, Zapel is characterized by serene landscapes, dense forests, and pristine lakes, including its proximity to Lake Schwerin. The area offers a tranquil escape with opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of nearby cultural landmarks. Visitors can discover a mix of natural beauty and historical architecture within a short distance.
Best attractions and places to see around Zapel
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Stör Lift Bridge in Plate
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Banzkow Lock and Bascule Bridge
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In the course of making the Stör navigable in 1576, the first lock was built in Banzkow. The sturgeon plays an increasingly important role as a transport route. It …
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Gaartzer Bridge on the Stör Waterway
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Basthorst Castle
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More information: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Basthorst and schloss-basthorst.de
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Pinnow Church
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Along the Störkanal you pass this bridge, from which you have a great view of the canal. Right in front of the bridge, there are benches and a table for a short break.
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Here, where the Mühlengraben flows into the Störkanal, the Waldlewitz River begins on the opposite side. The Gaartz Bridge, built in 2003, is only accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. Until 1989, a bascule bridge stood at this location, which had to be operated by boatmen using a hand winch. A view from the bridge over the Störkanal in both directions is a real treat! From the Gaartz Bridge, you have three options for continuing your exploration of the Waldlewitz: Cross the bridge and follow the forest paths to Göhren or Tramm (approx. 5 km). If you turn right, you will reach the tranquil Lewitz village of Jamel in approximately 4.5 km. If you follow the unpaved path along the Störkanal, you will reach the Breiter Graben after about 2 km. Here, turn right and after another 2 km you will reach the Friedrichsmoor hunting lodge, built in 1791. In summer, it's especially pleasant to linger in the castle courtyard and enjoy the house's specialties. The path is natural.
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The drawbridge is currently closed. It can't be opened. Therefore, the waterway is currently impassable for larger boats in both directions. The bike path along the Stör Waterway isn't affected by this, however. For the "Störkrug" restaurant, it's a good idea to read the Google reviews and get an idea. The path along the water is "natural or gravel, with coarse gravel in the lower section, like in the Lüneburg Heath or similar areas." 🙃
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A highlight on the Stör...
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Banzkow is 15 kilometers south of Schwerin. The Stör waterway flows through the municipality. This connects Lake Schwerin with the Müritz and the Elbe via the Müritz-Elde waterway. The Banzkower lock in the course of the canal regulates the water level of Lake Schwerin next to the weir at its northern outflow. The lock is bypassed by the Mühlengraben. The New Canal branches off from this. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banzkow
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It's good that there's a bridge here at all to cross the Störkanal. However, a better solution than stairs could have been found for the many cyclists here. Unfortunately, there is no other obvious alternative. You can find more detailed information about the Gaartzer Bridge here: https://www.gemeinde-banzkow.de/images/bilder/bilder/banzkow/gaartzerbrucke/GaartzerBrcke.pdf
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Plate was first mentioned in 1191 and lies directly on the Stör waterway, which flows through the meadow-rich Lewitz lowlands. The first bridge over the Stör River was built in the village center as early as 1567, and this technically interesting lift bridge has been located there since 2005/2006. The Lewitz-Kieker Albert has its home port in Plate and invites you to unforgettable boat trips. https://www.die-lewitz.de/lewitz_erleben/Gesucht-und-gefunden/Orte/plate/
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The Pinnow Church is not very big, but it is the oldest building in town. It was built in the Gothic style on a hill between the Kirchsee and the Binnensee in the 14th century. The tower is the oldest part built as a defense tower. On the right-hand side of the tower is a large tombstone bearing the coats of arms of Pedersdorf and Halberstadt. The chancel is closed in the east with three sides from the octagon. The main entrance in the western wall of the tower is an early Gothic portal. A major renovation of the church in 1839 included repaving the floor. The vaults that were located under the chancel had to be taken into account. The Grand Ducal government announced that these should be filled out as far as possible in order to stabilize the subsoil. To do this, the vault had to be opened and three open crypts with coffins came to light, the whereabouts of which first had to be clarified. In the years that followed, the church was decorated and painted with donations from the entire community and active support from the Grand Ducal Chamber. Ferdinand Flohr, a painter from Hamburg, made a new altarpiece depicting Christ, which the landowner Lancken auf Gneven donated to the church in 1853. After another renovation in 1910, it hangs on the left side of the nave. Source and further information: https://www.kirchengemeinde-pinnow.de/seite/234461/pinnow.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique attractions can I visit around Zapel?
Beyond the well-known spots, you can explore the interesting Stör Lift Bridge in Plate, which has a notable history along the Stör-Wasserstrasse. Another fascinating site is the Banzkow Lock and Bascule Bridge, historically significant for navigation on the Stör since 1576.
What natural features can I explore near Zapel?
The region around Zapel is characterized by serene landscapes, dense forests, and pristine lakes. Lake Schwerin, one of Germany's largest, is a major natural draw, offering opportunities for swimming, sailing, or scenic steamboat trips. The nearby Sternberger Seenland Nature Park also provides ample opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Are there historical sites to visit in the Zapel area?
Yes, the area boasts several historical sites. You can visit Basthorst Castle, a complex built in 1823 with a castle park. The Gothic-style Pinnow Church, dating back to the 14th century, is the oldest building in Pinnow and once served as a defense tower. Additionally, Schwerin Castle, a magnificent cultural highlight, is a short drive away.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Zapel?
The idyllic landscape around Zapel is perfect for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and cycling. For example, explore the hiking trails around Zapel, including moderate loops like the 'Swimming Area at Militzsee – Lakeside Path loop'. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Stör Lift Bridge in Plate – View of Lake Schwerin loop' found in the cycling guide for Zapel.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Zapel?
Yes, the region offers options for families. Basthorst Castle, with its castle park, is considered family-friendly. The Open Air Museum of Ethnography Schwerin Mueß provides insights into regional heritage, which can be an engaging experience for all ages. The natural areas, like Lake Schwerin, are also great for family outings.
What is the best time of year to visit Zapel?
Zapel offers different experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and enjoying Lake Schwerin. The Sternberger Seenland Nature Park is particularly inviting during this season. In winter, the park's snow-covered forests and hills are suitable for skiing and tobogganing, offering a tranquil escape.
Are there any cultural events or festivals in Zapel?
Zapel hosts annual events that celebrate local culture. These include the 'Wonnemond' open-air festival and the traditional fishermen's festival at Whitsun. For broader cultural experiences, the nearby city of Schwerin offers museums and theaters.
Where can I find local cuisine or dining options?
Visitors to the Zapel region are encouraged to try fresh regional fish, a local specialty. You can also find local delicacies such as smoked meat or potato soup. Many restaurants in the area, particularly around Lake Schwerin and in Schwerin city, offer these regional dishes.
Are there any accessible attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
The Gaartzer Bridge on the Stör Waterway is noted as wheelchair accessible, allowing cyclists to cross the Stör-Wasserstrasse as part of the forest adventure path Friedrichsmoor. When planning, it's always advisable to check specific accessibility details for other sites.
What do visitors generally enjoy about the attractions around Zapel?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical architecture. The tranquil escape offered by the serene landscapes, dense forests, and pristine lakes is a major draw. The historical bridges and castles also receive positive feedback for their unique character and historical significance.
Can I go running on trails near Zapel?
Yes, there are several running trails available. The running trails around Zapel guide features routes like the 'Crivitz Lake – Crivitz Lake loop from Crivitz' which is a moderate 7 km run, or the longer 'Path to Crivitz – Militzsee loop' for a more challenging experience.
What kind of bridges can I see in the Zapel area?
The region is notable for its historical and functional bridges. You can see the Gaartzer Bridge on the Stör Waterway, which is part of the forest adventure path Friedrichsmoor. The Stör Lift Bridge in Plate, converted into a lifting bridge in 2005, and the Banzkow Lock and Bascule Bridge are also significant structures along the Stör-Wasserstrasse.
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