Best lakes around Groß Sarau are situated within the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, offering access to significant water bodies like the Ratzeburger See, the tranquil Blankensee, and the scenic Wakenitz River. This region is characterized by its diverse aquatic landscapes, providing both expansive open waters and serene natural environments. The area is known for its excellent water quality and a network of paths for active recreation. Groß Sarau serves as a gateway to exploring these natural features and their surroundings.
…Last updated: July 1, 2026
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The town center of Ratzeburg is completely surrounded by three lakes... there is plenty of nature to discover on all sides.
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Remarkable city location on the lake with many sights and good infrastructure.
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A trip to Ratzeburg is definitely worth it. History in the old town and nature by the lake.
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The lake has very clear water and is ideal for many water sports.
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Really nice town on several lakes. Additionally possible: Trip on the Wakenitz along the former inner-German border towards Lübeck.
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The Ratzeburger See is a very beautiful and large lake. There are paths around the lake that can be used on foot or by bike. However, the path on the east side of the lake is more for experienced cyclists, as there are some fairly steep inclines here and the subsoil is also quite uneven in places. In addition, from the path on the east side you only have a view of the lake in very few places, most of the time it goes through the forest. Nevertheless, the landscape is very beautiful here. The path on the west side of the lake, on the other hand, is very easy to cycle because it is mostly flat. There are a few inclines on this side near Ratzeburg, but they are relatively easy to cycle, at least significantly better than on the other side of the lake. You can also see the lake much more often on the western side than on the eastern side of the lake. There are some jetties and beautiful beach areas.
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A lake that is worthwhile in every respect: You can swim in many places, mostly free of charge, and then tours along the shore are very varied and always in the most beautiful surroundings. The joint use of the Uferweg by cyclists and pedestrians works very well in 99 percent thanks to consideration.
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It stretches for almost ten kilometers from the island town of Ratzeburg to its northern shore in Rothenhusen. And it is precisely this expanse that makes the Ratzeburger See so special. Especially for passionate sailors. Together with the Domsee, it forms one of the most beautiful inland sailing areas. And so, the white sails are simply part of the scenery. Just like the sleek yellow rowing boats of the Rowing Academy, which circle the island town and already dream of the next Olympic medal. Of course, the Ratzeburger See is also the place to be for all water fans, young and old: Beautiful bathing spots invite you to jump into the cool water. Water bikes, pedal boats, or electric boats await leisure captains. "Heinrich der Löwe" transports its guests in a very relaxed manner: The excursion boat invites you on a short cruise. And those who wish can continue their journey via the Wakenitz to Lübeck. In the online voting on the platform seen.de, the Ratzeburger See ranked üb
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The region offers a wide range of activities. You can enjoy water sports like sailing, windsurfing, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding on the Ratzeburg Lake. There are also extensive networks of paths for cycling and hiking. For specific routes, explore guides like Road Cycling Routes around Groß Sarau, Easy hikes around Groß Sarau, and MTB Trails around Groß Sarau.
Yes, the Ratzeburg Lake is known for its excellent water quality and offers numerous free bathing spots along its shores. Pogeez, for example, provides a well-equipped area with supervision, changing rooms, and a kiosk.
The Wakenitz River, often called 'Lübeck's Little Amazon,' is celebrated for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. Rothenhusen is an excellent starting point for canoe and stand-up paddleboard tours. You can also take boat tours, including guided electric rafting trips, to explore its unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife.
Absolutely. The Island Town of Ratzeburg is a unique settlement surrounded by four lakes, offering numerous historical buildings and a rich history dating back over 950 years. The Ratzeburg Cathedral, founded in 1154, is a significant landmark that shapes the cityscape.
The terrain varies. The western side of Ratzeburg Lake generally features flat and easy paths suitable for cycling. The eastern side, however, can present steeper inclines and uneven terrain, making it more challenging for cyclists but offering rewarding views. The West Shore Trail at the Great Ratzeburg Lake is mostly easy to drive but can have steep sections.
Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. The Ratzeburg Lake and the Island Town of Ratzeburg are popular for families, offering swimming, boat trips, and easy paths. The View of Lake Ratzeburg and Ratzeburg Cathedral is also noted as family-friendly.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse views, especially those of sailing boats on Ratzeburg Lake and the historic Ratzeburg Cathedral. The unique atmosphere of the Island Town and the tranquil natural beauty of the Wakenitz River are also highly appreciated. The area's appeal for outdoor activities and scenic beauty is highlighted by over 1100 upvotes and 90 photos shared by the komoot community.
A highly recommended spot is the View of Lake Ratzeburg and Ratzeburg Cathedral, which offers diverse perspectives of the lake and the historic cathedral. The View of Kleiner See from the Wakenitz Bridge also provides exceptional views of the surrounding nature.
Yes, several campgrounds are available around the Großer Ratzeburger See, including Schwalkenberg, which offers scenic views of Ratzeburg.
The lakes are beautiful in every season. While summer offers a lot of variety for water activities and swimming, the cooler seasons are also recommended for hiking and cycling, especially along the Wakenitz, where insect swarms are less prevalent. The views are stunning whether the landscape is bare or green.
While specific public transport routes to every lake access point aren't detailed, the Island Town of Ratzeburg is well-connected and serves as a central hub for exploring the surrounding lakes. For detailed public transport information, it's advisable to check local transport schedules.
Yes, while the Ratzeburger See is a hub for activity, the Blankensee, with its southern half within the municipality of Groß Sarau, offers a more tranquil and serene natural setting. Accommodations are available nearby, suggesting it as a peaceful retreat.


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