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Germany
Schleswig-Holstein
Herzogtum Lauenburg

Ritzerau

Top 20 Lakes around Ritzerau

Best lakes around Ritzerau are found in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offering diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its numerous lakes, including the Lütauer See, Schmalsee, and Ritzerauer See, which are part of the Mölln lake district. These bodies of water provide settings for activities such as hiking, swimming, and nature observation. The area's natural environment is shaped by its glacial history, connecting various nature reserves.

Best lakes around Ritzerau

  • The most popular lakes is Schmalsee, a lake that offers a worthwhile hiking trail connecting it to the Lütauer See. It is known for its elongated shape amidst the Mölln forests and is appreciated for its natural beauty.
  • Another must-see spot is Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau, a lake with a designated swimming area and a jetty for easy access to its clear water. A hiking trail leads almost entirely around the lake, providing scenic views.
  • Visitors also love Nordstrand Bathing Area, Lütjensee, a beach area on the northern shore of Lütjensee Lake. This free swimming area allows visitors to refresh themselves and enjoy views of the lake.
  • Ritzerau is known for its clear swimming lakes, scenic hiking lakes, and tranquil fishing lakes. The variety of lakes provides options for different outdoor activities and experiences.
  • The lakes around Ritzerau are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 900 upvotes and 450 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: June 15, 2026

Schmalsee

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The hiking trail around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lütauer See is worthwhile! Very nice!

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Lake Lütauer See is just one of many lakes in this area; certainly one of the most beautiful. A hiking trail leads almost entirely around it; there's a swimming area and a jetty from which you can easily access the very clear water.

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Exactly this place at the water gate with the view over the Schulsee including the great pasture is beautiful at sunrise.

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East shore of the Schmalsee

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It's beautiful around the Schmalsee!

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In contrast to the Großensee, you cannot drive around completely at Lütjensee because the houses are built directly on the lake.
So here you shouldn't miss the opportunity and go to the beach!

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Popular around Ritzerau

Hiking around Ritzerau

Cycling around Ritzerau

Gravel biking around Ritzerau

Road Cycling Routes around Ritzerau

MTB Trails around Ritzerau

Running Trails around Ritzerau

Tips from the Community

Folki (ohne E-)
September 4, 2025, Nordstrand Bathing Area, Lütjensee

Fittingly, the restaurant "Il Lago" or as it is apparently called today "Restaurant am Lütjensee" is also located here.

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Bea
August 25, 2023, Schmalsee

Always beautiful...

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Bea
July 7, 2023, Schmalsee

A great route in every season!

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A beautiful, worthwhile hiking trail around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lüttauer See.

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That look with the gorgeous fall foliage! 🍁🍃🍂

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A fantastic lake with many possibilities.

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Simply a dream in autumn! 🍁🍃

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Naturpark Gastgeber
September 7, 2022, Schmalsee

a beautiful circular route to Schmalsee - along the Waldhalle and Schaafbrücke

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which lakes around Ritzerau are best for hiking and nature observation?

The Schmalsee and Lütauer See are excellent choices. The Lütauer See features a scenic hiking trail almost completely encircling it, offering clear waters and wooded shores. A worthwhile hiking trail also connects the Schmalsee with the Lütauer See, providing beautiful insights into the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park.

Are there designated swimming areas at the lakes near Ritzerau?

Yes, both the Lütauer See and the Ritzerauer See offer designated swimming areas. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau provides easy access to its very clear water. The Ritzerauer See has the 'Badestelle Ritzerauer See' on its eastern shore, which is generally accessible and known for being less crowded.

What activities are available for families around the Ritzerau lakes?

The Schmalsee is particularly family-friendly due to its proximity to the Naturparkzentrum Uhlenkolk, which features a café, playgrounds, a wildlife park, and a boulder garden. Many trails around the lakes, such as the circular route around Schmalsee, are suitable for family walks. The Nordstrand Bathing Area, Lütjensee also offers a free swimming area for family enjoyment.

Can I go fishing in the lakes near Ritzerau?

Yes, fishing is a popular activity. The Schmalsee is known for its variety of local fish species and interesting shoreline structure, making it attractive for anglers. The Ritzerauer See also has a history of being rich in fish and is currently used by the Nusser fishing club. For more details on fishing at Schmalsee, you can visit moelln-tourismus.de.

What kind of cycling routes are available near the Ritzerau lakes?

There are various cycling opportunities. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Elbe–Lübeck Canal – Klempauer Hof Lake loop' or the 'Scenic Countryside Road – Wotersen Castle loop'. If you prefer touring, options include 'St. Mary's Church, Berkenthin – Brandtschatz Café by the Lake loop' or 'View of Ziegelsee – View of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal loop'. Mountain biking trails are also available, such as the 'Singletrack in the forest – Kühsen Bathing Area loop'. You can find more details on these routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Ritzerau, Cycling around Ritzerau, and MTB Trails around Ritzerau guides.

What is the best time of year to visit the Ritzerau lakes?

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly stunning for hiking around the Schmalsee, as the colorful wooded shores reflect on the water. Summer is ideal for swimming and enjoying the bathing areas. The region's natural beauty can be appreciated in all seasons, with opportunities for winter hiking as well.

Are there any historical or cultural landmarks near the lakes?

While the lakes themselves are natural features, the nearby town of Mölln offers historical sights. You can find a View of Mölln's Old Town and St. Nicolai Church, which provides a unique panorama of the old town, including the church and other historical buildings like the old Gothic town hall.

What makes the Lütauer See special?

The Lütauer See is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the area, part of the Mölln lake district. It's known for its very clear waters, a scenic hiking trail that almost completely encircles it, and a broad jetty extending into the water, offering beautiful views of its wooded shores. A covered resting place is also available for hikers.

Where can I find a quiet spot for swimming around Ritzerau?

The Ritzerauer See (also known as Nusser See) is ideal for those seeking a peaceful retreat. Its designated swimming area ('Badestelle Ritzerauer See') on the eastern shore is generally less crowded, offering a tranquil atmosphere for visitors.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the Ritzerau lakes?

The lakes are part of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, providing a habitat for various wildlife. The Schmalsee is home to a variety of local fish species, and the Ritzerauer See plays a vital role as a connection between nature reserves, suggesting a rich natural environment shaped by its glacial history. Nature observation is a popular activity along the hiking trails.

Are there places to eat or stay near the Ritzerau lakes?

Yes, there are options available. On the northern shore of the Schmalsee, you'll find the 'Waldhalle' restaurant and hotel, offering a pleasant spot to enjoy views of the lake while dining. Additionally, a popular summer and winter camping site is located on the southern shore of the Lütauer See, serving as a base for exploring the area.

What is the ecological significance of the Ritzerauer See?

The Ritzerauer See is ecologically significant as it acts as a vital connection between the nature reserves of Hevenbruch, Ritzerauer Hofsee, and Duvenseebachniederung. Its natural environment has been shaped by melting glaciers at the end of the Weichselian Ice Age, making it appealing to nature enthusiasts interested in its unique ecosystem.

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