Lakes around Niendorf Germany are characterized by a landscape that, while not featuring large lakes within the district itself, offers diverse water bodies in its vicinity. Niendorf, a district of Hamburg, is known for its expansive green spaces like the Niendorfer Gehege, which includes ponds, small clearings, and bogs. The Kollau stream also flows through the area, contributing to the natural scenery. For those seeking larger lakes for recreational activities, options are available in the broader region surrounding Niendorf.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Niendorf.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Here the Wagenitz flows into Lake Ratzeburg. From here you can also take a boat across Lake Ratzeburg, Henry the Strong or rent a small boat or canoe.
1
0
The Wakenitz is the natural outflow of Lake Ratzeburg. It leaves the lake at the northernmost point near Rothenhusen and runs in a north-northwesterly direction to the city of Lübeck. The Wakenitz, a right tributary of the Trave, is about 14.9 km long. Until the construction of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal (1896–1900), the Wakenitz flowed around the city hill of Lübeck and flowed into the Trave south of the city. After the canal was built, the Wakenitz was blocked off by a dam (Falkendamm) and drained via the culvert into the Krähenteich/Mühlenteich, among other places. The Wakenitz forms the border between the federal states of Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania over long stretches. Due to its wildness, which was also caused and supported by its remote location on the former inner-German border until 1989, the river is also called the "Amazon of the North". Source: Wikipedia
2
0
You can take a nice break at the boat rental.
1
0
Here you become a cross-border commuter from Schleswig-Holstein to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Or vice versa.
1
0
Idyllic view of the lake invites you to linger or enjoy
3
0
There are two piers here, one for the Ratzeburger and one for the Wakenitz shipping. You can go by boat from Ratzeburg to Lübeck with a change.
6
0
Particularly beautiful and varied path. The sometimes steep sections are easily manageable with e-bikes. The east bank is not quite as nice.
7
1
Even today, July 11, 2022, very few people were out and the rest stops and restaurants were hardly visited, despite the great weather. However, I only recommend the tour to those who have already gained experience on forest paths and single trails and please do not necessarily do the tour with a city bike or light trekking bike!
5
0
While Niendorf itself features smaller water bodies like ponds, bogs, and the Kollau stream within the Niendorfer Gehege, larger lakes suitable for extensive recreation are found in the surrounding region. These include significant lakes like Lake Ratzeburg and the Wakenitz River system.
Yes, you can find excellent viewpoints. For instance, the View of Kleiner See offers exceptional perspectives of the surrounding nature, including the Wakenitz, especially from the Wakenitz Bridge. Another great spot is the Fährhaus Rothenhusen and View of Großer Ratzeburger See, which provides magnificent views over Lake Ratzeburg.
The Niendorf area is rich in natural landscapes. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve is a prime example, featuring a river, lake, and well-maintained trails through forests. The Niendorfer Gehege also offers a natural forest environment with smaller ponds, clearings, and bogs, alongside the Kollau stream.
Absolutely. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve is considered family-friendly with its trails. Lake Ratzeburg is also very family-friendly, offering supervised bathing areas, a child-friendly bathing ground, a playground, and facilities like changing rooms.
While the water bodies directly within Niendorf are not typically for swimming, Lake Ratzeburg is an excellent option for swimming. It features supervised bathing areas, a stone-free bathing ground, and a bathing island, making it ideal for a refreshing dip in clear water.
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling, explore routes like the 'Oberteich in Schönberg – Picnic spot with lake view loop' or the 'Ratzeburg Lake – View of Ratzeburg Cathedral loop'. For running, consider the 'Schwarzer Teich loop' or the 'Stepenitz Riverside Path – View of Lake Dassow loop'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can find trails such as the 'Ratzeburg Lake – View of Lübeck loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Niendorf, Running Trails around Niendorf, and MTB Trails around Niendorf guides.
Yes, there are numerous trails. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve features the Drägerweg, a well-maintained hiking trail running almost parallel to the Wakenitz River. Around Lake Ratzeburg, you'll find the West Shore Trail at the Great Ratzeburg Lake, which is suitable for both hiking and cycling along the water's edge.
The terrain varies. Trails like the West Shore Trail at the Great Ratzeburg Lake are mostly well-fortified natural paths, sometimes narrow, and can have low mountain character in sections. The Drägerweg in the Wakenitz Nature Reserve consists of well-developed paths. Generally, you can expect a mix of forest paths, lakeside trails, and some unpaved sections.
The region is beautiful in every season. While summer is ideal for swimming and water sports at places like Lake Ratzeburg, cooler seasons are recommended for trails along the Wakenitz, as insect swarms can be prevalent near the shore in warmer months. The natural scenery, including viewpoints, is enjoyable year-round.
The Fährhaus Rothenhusen and View of Großer Ratzeburger See is a notable option. It's an excursion restaurant with two terraces offering views over Lake Ratzeburg, serving as a charming spot for coffee or a meal. It's also a pier for ships on the Wakenitz and Ratzeburger See.
Yes, the natural areas around Niendorf offer opportunities for wildlife spotting. The Niendorfer Gehege, for example, is known for its diverse flora and fauna, including a fallow deer enclosure. The Kollau stream and the various ponds and bogs also support local wildlife.
Visitors appreciate the Wakenitz Nature Reserve for its well-maintained hiking trails, such as the Drägerweg, which runs along the Wakenitz River. The serene natural environment and the opportunity for leisurely walks through the forest are highly valued.
Lake Ratzeburg is popular due to its extensive facilities for water sports enthusiasts, including a 9-kilometer-long sailing area. It also offers supervised bathing areas with clear water, making it an ideal spot for swimming and family outings. The picturesque north bank provides delightful walks and longer hikes.


Still not found your perfect lake around Niendorf? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.