Top 20 Lakes around Zarpen
Lakes around Zarpen offer a diverse natural landscape in the Stormarn district of Germany. This region provides various lakes for outdoor activities and relaxation. Zarpen is a village surrounded by accessible natural water bodies, suitable for those seeking both active recreation and tranquil natural settings. The area features several lakes that are easily reachable from the village.
Best lakes around Zarpen
- The most popular lakes is Neuhöfer Teich, a lake that is a small, idyllic pond in Reinfeld. It…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Herrenteich Reinfeld
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Fischhuser Bridge over the Herrenteich, Reinfeld
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Reinfeld Lake Promenade (Herrenteich)
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Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve
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Herrenteich, Reinfeld
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The Herrenteich Pond is located in the heart of the carp town of Reinfeld. It was artificially created in the 12th century by Cistercian monks as a reservoir for the Heilsau River for fish farming. Carp are still bred here today. A four-kilometer circular trail around the Lower Herrenteich invites you to discover this special ecosystem. 16 stations along the adventure trail offer fun and a nature experience in one, sharpening your awareness of the special features of this natural area. In summer, you can enjoy the cool water at the lido. See: https://tourismus-stormarn.de/de/naturerlebnis/herrenteich-reinfeld-5
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld is a popular tourist destination. The approximately 55-hectare body of water is divided into the upper and lower Herrenteich. The upper Herrenteich remains a recognized nature reserve. The lower Herrenteich is home to, among other things, a hiking trail and an outdoor pool in the summer. Due to melting snow, the Herrenteich flooded in early March 2010. A temporary dam erected at the time due to construction work threatened to no longer hold the water masses. A breach of the dam would have flooded the entire hinterland. The Hamburg/Lübeck railway embankment would also have been affected. See: https://www.thw-badoldesloe.de/aktuelles/aktuelle-meldungen/artikel/vor-10-jahren-hochwassereinsatz-am-herrenteich-fachgruppen-wasserschadenpumpen-verhindern-stauwe
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The Herrenteich Pond is located in the heart of the carp town of Reinfeld. It was artificially created in the 12th century by Cistercian monks as a reservoir for the Heilsau River for fish farming. Carp are still bred here today. A four-kilometer circular trail around the Lower Herrenteich invites you to discover this special ecosystem. 16 stations along the adventure trail offer fun and a nature experience all in one, sharpening your awareness of the special features of this natural area. See: https://tourismus-stormarn.de/de/naturerlebnis/herrenteich-reinfeld-5
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Along the lake promenade, you'll find two water terraces, swinging benches, and plenty of other seating areas from which you can comfortably watch the setting sun. See: https://tourismus-stormarn.de/de/schloesser-und-herrenhaeuser/reinfeld-seepromenade-am-herrenteich-252
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The 3.7 km long trail leads along the partially wooded shore of the Herrenteich lake. The east and west banks are connected by a bridge at the "Fischhuser Damm"—north of this bridge begins the "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve. See: https://reinfeld-aktiv.de/tag/reinfeld/page/6/
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The 3.7 km long trail leads along the partially wooded shore of the Herrenteich lake. The east and west banks are connected by a bridge at the "Fischhuser Damm"—north of this bridge begins the "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve. See: https://reinfeld-aktiv.de/tag/reinfeld/page/6/
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Reinfeld, a state-approved health resort, is located directly on the A1 and B75 before the Hanseatic city of Lübeck. The Heilsau was dammed in the city area to form the Herrenteich (39.5 ha). The hiking trail around it is 3.7 km long (walking time approx. 1 hour).
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld owes its existence to Cistercian monks who founded the Reynevelde monastery in the 12th century. They cleared the forest, created fish ponds and dammed the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff The Herrenteich in Reinfeld, Stormarn district, owes its existence to the Cistercian monks who founded the "Reynevelde" monastery in the area of the marshy lowlands of the Heilsau in the 12th century. The Heilsau rises near today's Stockelsdorf (Ostholstein district) and flows into the Trave below Reinfeld. Count Adolf commissioned this Cistercian order in 1186 to reclaim this "place of loneliness and terror", according to contemporary witness Provost Sido from Neumünster. They cleared the forest, created small fish ponds and used the excavated material to build the dam for the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. The monks lived in the monastery until the 16th century
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Zarpen are best for swimming?
Several lakes in the region offer excellent swimming opportunities. Poggensee Outdoor Swimming Area is known for its beautiful old trees, a water slide, and two bathing islands, making it a wonderful summer oasis. Großensee, located in the 'Stormarn Switzerland' area, also features numerous free swimming spots, small sandy beaches, and a well-equipped lido. The Großer Segeberger See, though a bit further, has an open-air swimming pool and shallow areas suitable for children.
Are there any nature reserves or areas with unique natural features around Zarpen?
Yes, the Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve is notable for its beautiful water lilies and has a historical connection to carp farming. The Klempauer Hofsee offers tranquil, tree-lined surroundings, providing an ideal escape into nature. Additionally, the area around Großer Segeberger See is part of a unique gypsum karst landscape.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near the lakes?
You'll find a variety of hiking trails. A scenic hiking trail encircles Herrenteich Reinfeld, offering great views of the water. The Struckteich within Zarpen provides an idyllic backdrop for peaceful walks. For more options, you can explore various routes in the region, including easy trails like the 'Struckteich loop from Zarpen' or the 'Heidekamper Wohld loop from Rehhorst'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Zarpen guide.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Absolutely. The lido at Großensee is well-equipped with spacious grass areas for sunbathing, a playground, a kiosk, and a restaurant, making it excellent for families. The Poggensee Outdoor Swimming Area features a water slide and bathing islands, perfect for children. The Großer Segeberger See also has shallow areas ideal for swimming with kids, along with a promenade and boat rentals.
Can I cycle around any of the lakes near Zarpen?
Yes, both Herrenteich and Poggensee are suitable for cycling, with trails providing scenic views. For more extensive cycling, you can check out routes like 'Sheep Path Near Reinfeld – Reinfelder Berg loop' or 'Quiet, smooth country road – Mönkhagen–Heilshoop Path loop' in the Road Cycling Routes around Zarpen guide. There are also gravel biking options available in the Gravel biking around Zarpen guide.
What historical significance do the lakes in the Zarpen area have?
The Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve has a notable historical connection to Cistercian monks who founded the 'Reynevelde' monastery in the 12th century and created the pond for carp farming. The Großer Segeberger See also has an interesting geological history, formed within a unique gypsum karst landscape.
Where can I find a café or a place to relax by the water?
A café is located directly on the shores of Herrenteich Reinfeld, offering a pleasant spot for a break after a walk. The lido at Großensee also has a kiosk and a restaurant. Additionally, the Großer Segeberger See features a pleasant promenade with various amenities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Zarpen?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscape and the opportunities for both active recreation and tranquil relaxation. Many enjoy the scenic walks, clean swimming waters, and the peaceful atmosphere. The Herrenteich Reinfeld is praised for its wonderfully relaxing hiking trail, while Neuhöfer Teich is recommended for short, idyllic walks in nature.
Are there any specific viewpoints or landmarks near the lakes?
The hiking trail around Herrenteich Reinfeld offers great views of the lake. The Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve is known for its beautiful water lilies. At Herrenteich, you can also discover a unique 'Scrat' sculpture by Peter Gatzlaff on the south bank. The Großer Segeberger See is renowned for its beautiful sunset views.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Zarpen?
The lakes are generally appealing throughout the warmer months for swimming and outdoor activities. The region's natural beauty, including water lilies at the Upper Herrenteich, is particularly vibrant in spring and summer. Autumn offers beautiful scenery for walks, and the annual carp festival in October at Herrenteich Reinfeld is a unique event.
Are there any lakes suitable for water sports besides swimming?
Yes, Großensee hosts the Midsummer Triathlon, indicating its suitability for various water sports. The Großer Segeberger See also offers boat rentals, providing another way to enjoy the water.
How accessible are the lakes from Zarpen?
Many lakes, such as Herrenteich and Poggensee, are easily reachable from Zarpen. The Struckteich is located within Zarpen itself, offering immediate access for peaceful walks. While some lakes like Großer Segeberger See are a bit further, they are still within easy reach, making the Zarpen area a convenient base for exploring.
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