The best walks and hikes around Borgwallsee

There are over 360 hiking routes around Borgwallsee, catering to various preferences. You'll find a wide selection, from easy strolls to more challenging excursions.

Borgwallsee is unique due to its origins as an Ice Age formation and its status as part of the 555-hectare Borgwallsee and Püttersee nature reserve. This protected area boasts diverse ecosystems, varied shorelines with dense forests and open agricultural views, and a rich array of flora and fauna, including over 50 documented breeding bird species.

The trails around Borgwallsee offer a mix of terrain. You can expect sections of asphalt, dirt roads, and significant portions of forested or wild paths. The varied shorelines provide contrasting views, from dense woods to open agricultural landscapes and tranquil reed beds.

Yes, Borgwallsee offers many easy hiking options. Out of over 360 routes, 252 are classified as easy, making them ideal for beginners or families. A popular easy route is the Borgwallsee near Negast – Borgwallsee Lake loop from Negast, which is 3.2 miles (5.1 km) long and offers continuous lake views.

Generally, dogs are welcome on the hiking trails around Borgwallsee. However, as it is a nature reserve, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a peaceful experience for all visitors. Always clean up after your pet.

Yes, many of the trails around Borgwallsee are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Borgwallsee Lake – Borgwallsee near Negast loop from Negast is a 4.6 miles (7.5 km) circular trail that takes you through forested sections and along the lake.

Along the trails, you can discover several interesting sights. On the southern peninsula of Borgwallsee, you'll find remnants of a Slavic refuge castle, adding a historical dimension to your hike. You can also visit the Observation Platform at Borgwallsee for panoramic views of the nature reserve, or see the Weir Between Borgwallsee and Barthe, which connects the lake to the Barthe river.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1700 reviews. Hikers often praise the tranquil environment, the diverse landscapes ranging from dense forests to open views, and the well-maintained trails that offer continuous views of the lake and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

While specific public transport routes directly to all trailheads might be limited, the Borgwallsee area is accessible. It's advisable to check local bus schedules from nearby towns like Negast or Stralsund, which may offer connections close to the lake. Planning your route in advance will help confirm the best public transport options.

Parking facilities are generally available in and around the villages bordering Borgwallsee, such as Negast. Look for designated parking areas near popular trailheads or access points to the lake. These spots are often well-signposted for hikers.

Yes, Borgwallsee is a haven for wildlife. The nature reserve is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna. Birdwatchers can spot over 50 documented breeding bird species, including fish and sea eagles. Otters are also present year-round. Information boards along the trails provide more details about the local plant and animal life.

For experienced hikers seeking a longer challenge, Borgwallsee offers moderate routes. An example is the View of Borgwallsee – Borgwallsee near Negast loop from Negast, which spans 10.9 miles (17.5 km) and features more elevation gain, providing a more extensive exploration of the area.