Best castles around Großer Plöner Lake, a prominent lake in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This region, known as Holstein Switzerland, features a large lake and surrounding picturesque towns. The area provides opportunities for exploring historical sites and enjoying the lakeside environment.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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Schloss Plön is the last large castle construction in Schleswig-Holstein and the state's first three-winged complex. Situated high above the Plöner See, the castle, built between 1630 and 1636, still shapes the town's silhouette today. Three predecessor structures can be proven on the Schlossberg, the oldest dating back to before 1139. From 1156 to 1390, the medieval castle was owned by the Counts of Schauenburg. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle finally came into the possession of Johann II of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg. His son Joachim Ernst had it demolished and built the castle, which is still largely preserved in its external structure today, between 1630 and 1636. Herrenhaeuser.sh
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Plön Castle is one of the largest castles in Schleswig-Holstein and the only one preserved at an elevated location. It is located in the town of Plön in the district of the same name. The former residence of the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön was built in the 17th century during the Thirty Years' War. It has had a turbulent history, serving, among other things, as a cadet school and boarding school. Most recently owned by the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Plön Castle was sold due to the state's inability to finance necessary renovations. Since January 2002, it has belonged to the "Fielmann Academy Plön Castle" and, following extensive renovations, serves the optics and hearing aid industry as a training and qualification center. After the castle had been closed to the public for many years due to the boarding school, the new owner opened it to a limited number of visitors. See: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Pl%C3%B6n
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200 lakes close together, with Schleswig-Holstein's largest lake at its center: that's Holstein Switzerland. It's not without reason that this "lake paradise" is one of the most popular vacation regions for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and those looking to slow down from the stresses of big city life. The Great Plön Lake, with its deep blue waters and pristine shoreline, entices visitors to spend relaxing holidays on, in, and around the lake. Whether paddling, sailing, fishing, swimming, diving, or golfing near the lake – the options are endless. Furthermore, the 30 square kilometer expanse of water with a depth of 58 meters invites you to enjoy relaxing lake views. And all around the lake, picturesque towns like Plön, Bosau, and Dersau boast a wealth of culture, history, and nature. It's no wonder this lake has been awarded the seal of "Schleswig-Holstein's Favorite Lake" several times in a row.
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The Princes' Island was acquired by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and remains in the possession of the House of Hohenzollern to this day. Forest, marshy terrain, a sandy beach, and four large paddocks characterize the landscape.
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The extensive renovation work on the Lower Saxon farmhouse on Prince's Island in Plön has been delayed somewhat. However, Prince's Island manager Frank Nettlau now hopes to reopen in mid-May. The craftsmen are still busy working on the door. Anja Rüstmann Anja Rüstmann 06.05.2019 Plön. Even from afar, you can see what has already been done on the historic building at the tip of Prince's Island in Plön. The Lower Saxon farmhouse has been given a new thatched roof. The Hohenzollern family, who own the island and thus also the restaurant, paid a six-figure sum for this. The work lasted from January to the end of March.
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Family-friendly and varied hiking trail with many interesting stops. A varied medium-length trail with great views, passing many of Plön's sights. The circular trail leads through the forest, along the shoreline, along the lakeside promenade of the Great Plön Lake, and to the Prince's Island. Numerous information panels along the Plön Lakeshore Nature Experience Trail provide insights into the local flora and fauna. The Planet Trail is also located along the trail, explaining the solar system at a scale of 1:2 billion. Tips: Lake Cruises; Lower Saxon Farmhouse (Restaurant & Cafe); Apple Orchard; Planet Trail; Castle Area; Castle & View; Prince's House; Castle Gardens; Prince's Island Swimming Area with Snack Bar
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prinzeninsel.de Restaurant, Cafe, and Beer Garden on Prince's Island, Plön After a pleasant walk to the tip of Prince's Island or a scenic cruise across the large Plön Lake, you'll arrive at the Prince's Island Restaurant. In this completely renovated, historic farmhouse, you'll find the daily changing Prince's Buffet, featuring freshly caught fish, succulent local beef, seasonal regional vegetable dishes, and much more. You'll also find Holstein dishes, mostly from the region, homemade cakes, ice cream creations, and coffee and tea specialties. Holstein cuisine at its finest in a wonderful setting: At the tip of Prince's Island, the quaint farmhouse or cozy beer garden combines typical Holstein cuisine with influences from France, Italy, and Germany. The restaurant is only accessible on foot, by bike, or by boat. A dedicated electric shuttle service is available for guests.
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From the Prinzeninsel car park on the B430, it is only a few steps to paradise. Pure nature, no cars, no motorbikes, the only bikers here are cycle tourists. The Prinzeninsel is on every cycling map of the former royal seat of Plön.
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The most prominent historical site is Plön Castle, a significant Renaissance castle overlooking the lake. Additionally, Princes' Island (Prinzeninsel) offers a unique blend of natural beauty and imperial history, featuring a historic farmhouse and connections to the German imperial family.
Plön Castle is one of Schleswig-Holstein's largest and most historically significant castles, built in the 17th century. It has served as a ducal residence, a Danish royal summer retreat, and a military academy. Today, it houses the Fielmann Academy, but visitors can explore its impressive Renaissance architecture, grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of Großer Plöner See. Its white façade is particularly striking from the lake.
Princes' Island is a car-free peninsula offering a tranquil natural experience. You can enjoy walks through its forested areas, dine at the historic 17th-century "Lower Saxon farmhouse" (Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus) which now operates as a restaurant, and even swim at the "Prinzenbad" (Princes' pool) with its sandy beach. The island has strong historical ties to the German imperial family, whose sons once learned agricultural skills and swimming here.
Yes, both Plön Castle and Princes' Island offer family-friendly experiences. At Plön Castle, families can explore the grounds and gardens. On Princes' Island, children can enjoy the natural environment, walk along the shores, and swim at the "Prinzenbad." The entire Großer Plöner See region is popular for water sports and relaxing holidays, making it ideal for families.
Yes, Plön Castle is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the castle grounds and park with your canine companion. Princes' Island, with its natural trails, is also suitable for walks with dogs, offering a peaceful environment away from motor traffic.
The region around Großer Plöner See is particularly appealing during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the weather is ideal for exploring the castle grounds, enjoying lake views, and engaging in outdoor activities. The area was historically a royal summer retreat, highlighting its appeal during these seasons. However, the panoramic views from Plön Castle are beautiful year-round.
Absolutely! There are several excellent viewpoints. You can get a wonderful perspective of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake itself, with specific spots like the View of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake. Another stunning view is available from Princes' Island, offering a picturesque sight of the white castle on the hill across the water.
The Großer Plöner See region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling tours like the "Culinary loop of Lake Plön" or "Plön Castle – Langenrade Windmill Sventana loop" which are part of the Cycling around Großer Plöner Lake guide. There are also traffic-free bike rides and MTB trails available, such as those found in the MTB Trails around Großer Plöner Lake guide. The lake itself is popular for water sports like paddling, sailing, and swimming.
While Plön Castle is the most prominent preserved castle, Princes' Island features the 17th-century "Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus" (Lower Saxon farmhouse), which is a visible historical structure. Burg Bosau, a former Slavic fortification, has almost no visible remnants today, though the St. Petri Church in Bosau is a notable medieval site nearby.
Yes, on Princes' Island, the historic "Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus" operates as a restaurant, offering Holstein and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh, regional ingredients. Near Plön Castle, the town of Plön offers various cafes and dining options within walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments after exploring the castle.
While Plön Castle primarily houses the Fielmann Academy today, guided tours are often available to explore parts of its rich interior and learn about its eventful history. It's advisable to check the castle's official website for current tour schedules and availability.


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