Top 20 Lakes around Lübeck

Visitors frequently enjoy the Wakenitz Nature Reserve, known for its hiking trails along the Wakenitz River. Another favorite is the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, a lake within a forest where you can observe various birds. The View of Kleiner See also offers exceptional perspectives of the Wakenitz's natural beauty.

Yes, many lakes around Lübeck are suitable for families. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve and the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area are both marked as family-friendly. The Klempauer Hofsee offers a beach, and the Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is a historic and family-friendly bathing spot. The Hemmelsdorfer See also features the Naturbad Hemmelsdorfer See Offendorf, a well-equipped bathing area.

The lakes and their surrounding nature reserves are rich in wildlife. At the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, you might spot geese, cormorants, ducks, and potentially even white-tailed eagles. The Schaalsee, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to rare bird species like cranes and white-tailed eagles, while the Hemmelsdorfer See is known for its rich bird and fish population, especially in its northern nature reserve.

The Ratzeburger See is known for its excellent water quality, making it ideal for swimming. The Hemmelsdorfer See offers the Naturbad Hemmelsdorfer See Offendorf, a well-equipped bathing area. Additionally, the Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is one of Northern Germany's oldest natural swimming pools.

Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve features the Drägerweg, an 18-kilometer hiking trail running almost parallel to the Wakenitz River. The Ratzeburger See is enveloped by walking paths, with more challenging terrain on the east side and easier routes on the west. The Schaalsee offers over 150 kilometers of well-signposted hiking trails. You can find more routes in the Hiking around Lübeck guide.

Absolutely. The Ratzeburger See has extensive cycling paths, with the east side offering more challenging routes and the west side providing easier rides with frequent lake views. The Schaalsee also boasts over 150 kilometers of biking trails. The Hemmelsdorfer See has extensive cycling paths, and the Wakenitz is perfect for relaxed canoe tours or panoramic cruises. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Lübeck guide.

The Ratzeburger See is excellent for boating, sailing, windsurfing, and rowing, even hosting a top-tier rowing academy. The Großer Plöner See is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. The Schaalsee also provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing with rental stations available.

The town of Ratzeburg, located on an island in the Ratzeburger See, features a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral. The Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is a historical site, being one of the oldest natural swimming pools in Northern Germany. The Bridge between Krähen- and Mühlenteich is also noted as a historical site.

The View of Kleiner See provides exceptional views of the Wakenitz, especially to the south. The View of Lake Dassow offers beautiful lake vistas. The Hermann-Löns-Aussichtsturm at Hemmelsdorfer See provides panoramic views of the lake and its reed belt. The Wesloer Moor Lake also has idyllic spots with great views.

The lakes offer beauty and activities year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, hiking, and cycling, with lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, perfect for scenic walks. While specific winter activities vary, some trails remain accessible, and the tranquil, often misty landscapes can be quite atmospheric for cooler-season walks.

The Bridge between Krähen- and Mühlenteich is specifically marked as wheelchair accessible. While many paths around the lakes are well-maintained, it's advisable to check specific trail conditions for accessibility, as terrain can vary. The west side of Ratzeburger See offers easier routes, which might be more suitable.

The Klempauer Hofsee has a cafe nearby. At Hemmelsdorfer See, the Fischereihof in Hemmelsdorf is a pleasant spot for a break with food and drink. The town of Ratzeburg, situated on the Ratzeburger See, also offers various dining options. The Wakenitz allows for panoramic cruises to idyllic Rothenhusen, which likely has refreshment options.