Best attractions and places to see around Gokels include natural landscapes and historical sites in the Rendsburg-Eckernförde district of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The municipality is situated near the Kiel Canal and the Obere Hanerau, a landscape protection area. Visitors can explore significant waterways, architectural landmarks, and areas with prehistoric settlement indicators. The region offers a mix of outdoor experiences and cultural points of interest.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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The Oldenbüttel Canal Ferry is a small cable-stayed ferry that transports pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles across the Kiel Canal. It uses the water current and a taut wire cable to enable the canal crossing without its own propulsion.
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During the construction of the Kiel Canal (NOK), a connection between the Kiel Canal and the Eider River was created in Rendsburg. However, because the lock increasingly hindered road traffic in Rendsburg, an alternative lock was built further west in 1937: The Gieselau Lock. Since then, this lock has connected the Eider River with the Kiel Canal in the Gieselau Valley, south of Prinzenmoor. The Gieselau Canal is only navigable during the summer months.
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Who doesn't like @Dani's post here and why (?) is not clear to me 🤔
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Road traffic, and thus also the hiking trail, is routed through the truly picturesque Giselau Lock. Visitors rattle along wooden planks. The canal is beautifully situated and runs through a rather quiet, rural area.
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The Gieselau Canal has connected the Eider River with the Kiel Canal (NOK) since 1937. The approximately 2 km long canal serves primarily as a link between the two waterways for recreational boating. This requires a lock to balance water levels and currents.
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Crossing by bike is worthwhile
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The Gieselau Canal is approx. 2.8 km long and ships with a length of up to 65.0 m, a width of up to 2.70 m and a draft of up to 2.70 m can be navigated through the Gieselau lock. The Gieselau lock is primarily used by sports boats ⛵️...
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The Gieselau lock is the only connection between the NOK and the Eider. The lock connects the NOK with the Eider-Treene-Sorge river landscape. In the heart of the region, the three rivers Eider, Trennen and Sorge form the largest connected river and lowland area in Schleswig-Holstein 💙...
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Gokels is rich in natural landscapes. You can visit the Gieselautal Kneipp facility and bridge, which offers nature walks along a creek and through the Gieselautal, a landscape protection area. The significant Nord-Ostsee-Kanal (Kiel Canal) is also a prominent feature, with various viewpoints and opportunities to observe ship traffic. The municipality is situated on the eastern bank of the Obere Hanerau and the Haner Au, both offering scenic natural surroundings.
Yes, the region around Gokels has several historical and cultural points of interest. You can explore the Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, an original disused chain ferry exhibited on the southern side of the Kiel Canal, offering a glimpse into local history. Further afield, the Steinzeitpark Dithmarschen in Albersdorf provides insights into prehistoric times, and the area also features numerous megalithic tombs, indicating ancient settlements.
The area boasts impressive architectural landmarks, particularly related to its waterways. The Grünental High Bridge, a railway and car bridge built between 1984 and 1986, offers an impressive view of the Kiel Canal. Another significant structure is the Gieselau Canal Lock and Bascule Bridge, which connects the Eider River to the Kiel Canal and is primarily used by sport and sailing boats.
Many attractions around Gokels are suitable for families. The Gieselautal Kneipp facility and bridge is great for nature walks, and children can enjoy exploring the area. The Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, allows children to romp around under and on the ferry. Observing ships at the Kiel Canal from viewpoints like the Grünental High Bridge or the Gieselau Canal Lock can also be an exciting experience for all ages.
The region around Gokels is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Hiking loop from Gokels' or routes through the Gieselautal. For cyclists, there are gravel biking and road cycling routes, including the 'Lowest Point in Germany – Grünental High Bridge loop from Gokels'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Gokels, Gravel biking around Gokels, and Road Cycling Routes around Gokels guide pages.
Yes, some attractions are designed with accessibility in mind. The Gieselau Canal Lock and Bascule Bridge is noted as wheelchair accessible, and it also features a separate fishing spot for wheelchair users. Additionally, the Oldenbüttel Ferry over the Kiel Canal is also wheelchair accessible, providing a free and convenient way to cross the canal.
Excellent viewpoints for observing the Kiel Canal include the Grünental High Bridge, which offers impressive panoramic views of the canal and its shipping traffic. The Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, also provides direct views of the canal, allowing you to relax and watch the boats pass by.
Visitors particularly enjoy the combination of natural beauty and engineering marvels. The direct views of the Kiel Canal from spots like the Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, and the Grünental High Bridge are highly appreciated. The peaceful nature walks and the unique Kneipp facility at Gieselautal are also popular, especially for those seeking relaxation and outdoor activity.
Yes, the Gieselautal Kneipp facility and bridge area is known for being dog-friendly. The hiking trail along the creek and through the Gieselautal offers many opportunities for dogs to go into the water, making it a great spot for walks with your canine companion.
Yes, for refreshments, the Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, offers food and drinks, including fresh fish rolls, grilled sausage, pies, and cakes, directly at the canal. There is also a coffee shop not far from the Oldenbüttel Ferry, visible from the ferry itself.
The best time to visit Gokels for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the natural landscapes and waterways. The Old Chain Ferry, Fischerhütte, for example, operates from March to October.
Absolutely. You can experience a free, round-the-clock crossing of the Kiel Canal on the Oldenbüttel Ferry. Additionally, observing the sport and sailing boats passing through the Gieselau Canal Lock and Bascule Bridge, which connects the Eider River to the Kiel Canal, offers a unique insight into the waterway's operations.


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