4.6
(470)
1,182
riders
70
rides
Touring cycling routes around Bornhöved traverse a landscape shaped by the Ice Age, featuring gently rolling hills, over 200 clear lakes, and dense forests. The region, situated near Holstein Switzerland, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. Routes often wind through a glacial landscape with woodlands, interconnected lakes, and agricultural fields bordered by hedgerows.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
4.3
(62)
239
riders
44.8km
02:41
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(36)
124
riders
22.9km
01:22
140m
140m
Hard bike ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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4.8
(13)
46
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(12)
53
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(13)
41
riders
33.3km
02:18
200m
200m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Very beautiful area, unfortunately we were there in winter, but I will definitely go again, including a coffee break 😉
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The Langenrade windmill (also known as the "Sventana" windmill) is an impressive historical monument in the municipality of Ascheberg, very close to Plön.
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The only fully functional of the three windmills within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park is located in Ascheberg-Langenrade. The windmill, named "Sventana," was built in 1860 in Kleinmühlen near Plön. It has stood in Ascheberg only since 1890, replacing a predecessor that burned down. In 1982, three couples with a passion for windmills decided to restore it to working order. After considerable financial investment and many hours of labor, the single-story smock mill has been operational and flying again since 1990. The restoration of the mill's sails was financially supported, among other things, by state funds for nature parks.
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Lake Schmalensee is located west of the town of Schmalensee and borders the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. It covers approximately 90 hectares and is up to 7.5 meters deep. It is part of the Bornhöved Lake Chain, which consists of six lakes and is also part of the Wankendorf Lake District. Lake Bornhöved is located south of Lake Schmalensee, and in the immediate vicinity; the two are connected by a 100-meter-long branch canal. There is a swimming area on the southeastern shore of the lake.
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The Schmalensee near Plön has a maximum depth of 7.5 meters and an area of approximately 90 hectares. It is part of the Bornhöved chain of lakes and is located west of the town of Schmalensee. The average depth of the lake is 4 meters.
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A small, beautiful bridge with seating to relax.
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Beautiful resting place under old trees with a view over the Schmalensee
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Bornhöved offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 70 different options to explore. These routes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
The touring cycling routes around Bornhöved cater to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 46 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 18 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 6 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for a demanding tour.
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Bornhöved, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the picturesque landscapes, the variety of routes, and the serene atmosphere of the region's lakes and forests.
Cycling around Bornhöved means traversing a landscape shaped by the Ice Age, characterized by gently rolling hills, over 200 clear lakes, and dense forests. The region is part of Holstein Switzerland, offering diverse moraine landscapes, woodlands, and agricultural fields bordered by hedgerows.
Yes, many routes around Bornhöved feature stunning lake views. For example, the Lakeside Path on Lake Plön – Langenrade Windmill Sventana loop from Bornhöved offers views of Lake Plön. You can also find routes with views of Lake Belau, such as the View of Lake Belau – Kattholz Oak loop from Bornhöved, or explore the area around Bornhöveder See with the Bornhöveder See – Rest Area at Bornhöveder See loop from Bornhöved.
Yes, Bornhöved offers numerous family-friendly routes, particularly among the 46 easy options available. The region's generally gentle terrain and well-maintained paths, often consisting of asphalted cycle paths and low-traffic side streets, make it suitable for cyclists of all ages. The historic Ochsenweg, which passes through the region, is also known for being suitable for families.
Beyond the beautiful lakes, you can encounter several interesting natural features and landmarks. The Tensfelder Au Pond and Weir is a notable highlight. You might also discover the Stocksee Lakeside Trail or the Nehmtener Forest Lakeside Trail on the Großer Plöner See. The historic Old railway bridge over the Trave River at Groß Rönnau also offers a glimpse into the region's past.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Bornhöved are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. For example, the Swimming area at Lake Stocksee – Tensfelder Au Pond and Weir loop from Bornhöved is a popular circular option. The wider region is also connected to the 200-kilometer Holsteinische Schweiz Cycle Tour, which is a significant circular route.
The best time for touring cycling in Bornhöved is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is most favorable, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. The region's numerous lakes and forests provide a pleasant environment for cycling, with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities.
Bornhöved is strategically located to access significant long-distance cycling routes. The historic Ochsenweg, a 245-kilometer path, passes through the region, offering insights into Northern German nature and culture. Additionally, Bornhöved is closely connected to the Holsteinische Schweiz Cycle Tour, a 200-kilometer circular route through Schleswig-Holstein's largest nature park. You can find more information about the Ochsenweg here and the Holsteinische Schweiz Cycle Tour here.
The Bornhöved region and its connected long-distance routes are cyclist-friendly. You can expect amenities such as rest stops, various accommodation options including 'Bed & Bike' facilities, and connections to the Deutsche Bahn railway network for flexible travel. Many accommodations offer secure bicycle storage, drying rooms for clothes, and access to repair kits or local repair shops.
Yes, the wider region around Bornhöved offers public transport connections, including the Deutsche Bahn railway network, which allows cyclists to transport their bikes. This flexibility enables you to plan your journeys more efficiently, shorten routes, or access different starting points for your touring cycling adventures.


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