Best lakes around Mönkhagen offer diverse natural landscapes within the broader Rostock Heath region. This area, known for its extensive coastal forest, provides a unique blend of forest and sea air. Visitors can explore various water bodies, from historical ponds with intriguing legends to protected nature reserves. The region's natural beauty and recreational opportunities make it a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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The Herrenteich Pond is located in the heart of the carp town of Reinfeld. It was artificially created in the 12th century by Cistercian monks as a reservoir for the Heilsau River for fish farming. Carp are still bred here today. A four-kilometer circular trail around the Lower Herrenteich invites you to discover this special ecosystem. 16 stations along the adventure trail offer fun and a nature experience in one, sharpening your awareness of the special features of this natural area. In summer, you can enjoy the cool water at the lido. See: https://tourismus-stormarn.de/de/naturerlebnis/herrenteich-reinfeld-5
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld is a popular tourist destination. The approximately 55-hectare body of water is divided into the upper and lower Herrenteich. The upper Herrenteich remains a recognized nature reserve. The lower Herrenteich is home to, among other things, a hiking trail and an outdoor pool in the summer. Due to melting snow, the Herrenteich flooded in early March 2010. A temporary dam erected at the time due to construction work threatened to no longer hold the water masses. A breach of the dam would have flooded the entire hinterland. The Hamburg/Lübeck railway embankment would also have been affected. See: https://www.thw-badoldesloe.de/aktuelles/aktuelle-meldungen/artikel/vor-10-jahren-hochwassereinsatz-am-herrenteich-fachgruppen-wasserschadenpumpen-verhindern-stauwe
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The 3.7 km long trail leads along the partially wooded shore of the Herrenteich lake. The east and west banks are connected by a bridge at the "Fischhuser Damm"—north of this bridge begins the "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve. See: https://reinfeld-aktiv.de/tag/reinfeld/page/6/
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The 3.7 km long trail leads along the partially wooded shore of the Herrenteich lake. The east and west banks are connected by a bridge at the "Fischhuser Damm"—north of this bridge begins the "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve. See: https://reinfeld-aktiv.de/tag/reinfeld/page/6/
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A beautiful park that is fun not only in summer. Countless water birds swim on the small lake and there is also a lot to discover along the Schwartau.
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld owes its existence to Cistercian monks who founded the Reynevelde monastery in the 12th century. They cleared the forest, created fish ponds and dammed the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff The Herrenteich in Reinfeld, Stormarn district, owes its existence to the Cistercian monks who founded the "Reynevelde" monastery in the area of the marshy lowlands of the Heilsau in the 12th century. The Heilsau rises near today's Stockelsdorf (Ostholstein district) and flows into the Trave below Reinfeld. Count Adolf commissioned this Cistercian order in 1186 to reclaim this "place of loneliness and terror", according to contemporary witness Provost Sido from Neumünster. They cleared the forest, created small fish ponds and used the excavated material to build the dam for the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. The monks lived in the monastery until the 16th century
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With 37 hectares, the Herrenteich is the largest of a total of five freshwater ponds in Reinfeld; with its diverse bank vegetation, it offers a home to many animal species.
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Nice walk around the pond! With lots of cozy spots.
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The region offers diverse natural features. For instance, the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area is known for its rich birdlife, including geese, cormorants, ducks, and occasionally white-tailed eagles. The broader Rostock Heath, where Radelsee is located, features extensive coastal forests, bogs, and meadows, providing a unique blend of forest and sea air. You can also find diverse flora like orchids and yew, and wildlife such as kingfishers and breeding cranes.
Yes, Herrenteich Reinfeld has a rich history, originally created by Cistercian monks in the 12th century for carp farming. Information boards at Teufelskuhle Pond also share fascinating, unfathomable stories about its creation and the surrounding historical 'three-wall bastion' that once protected the Hanseatic city.
The area around Mönkhagen's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking and cycling trails, especially within the Rostock Heath. For specific routes, consider exploring the road cycling routes, MTB trails, or gravel biking tours available in the region.
Absolutely. The Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area is considered family-friendly and offers exciting exploration. Similarly, Schwartauer Lake in the spa park Bad Schwartau provides a relaxing environment with plenty of seating and easy paths, making it suitable for families.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and the tranquil atmosphere. Many enjoy the clear, pure air near the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, perfect for long walks. The Herrenteich Reinfeld is loved for its scenic hiking trail and cozy spots to relax. The winding paths and abundant seating at Schwartauer Lake also receive positive feedback for their relaxing environment.
While Mönkhagen itself doesn't have large, famous lakes, the broader Rostock Heath features numerous smaller water bodies and 'moor ponds' within its extensive forest and moorland landscapes. These offer tranquil spots for nature observation away from more frequented areas. Radelsee, within the Radelsee Nature Reserve, also provides an opportunity to experience unspoiled nature.
The region benefits from a mild, stimulating climate, a mix of Baltic Sea and forest air, making it pleasant for visits throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for hiking and cycling, with vibrant flora and fauna. The unique climate offers health benefits year-round.
Yes, there are excellent options for walking and hiking. The Herrenteich Reinfeld offers a wonderfully relaxing hiking trail with forest, meadow, and water views. The Rostock Heath, encompassing areas like Radelsee, provides kilometers of trails through diverse natural landscapes. You can find more detailed routes in the MTB Trails around Mönkhagen guide, which also includes walking paths.
While specific cafes directly at every lake are not detailed, the area around Herrenteich Reinfeld offers the possibility to stop at a café directly by the lake after a hike. For other lakes, you might find options in nearby towns or villages within the broader Mönkhagen region.
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are rich in wildlife. The Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area is a haven for diverse birdlife, including geese, cormorants, ducks, and even white-tailed eagles. The Radelsee Nature Reserve and the broader Rostock Heath are home to kingfishers, breeding cranes, martens, foxes, badgers, and red deer.
Many of the natural areas and trails around the lakes, particularly within the Rostock Heath, are suitable for dog walking. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like Radelsee, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
While specific public transport details for each lake are not provided, the region around Mönkhagen is generally accessible. For car travel, parking is usually available near popular recreational areas. For more detailed information on reaching specific locations, local tourist information or mapping services can provide the best guidance.


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