Top 20 Lakes around Lübeck
Best lakes around Lübeck offer diverse recreational opportunities within a region known for its historic charm and proximity to the Baltic Sea. The city is surrounded by a landscape featuring numerous lakes, woodlands, and nature reserves. These bodies of water provide a variety of natural settings, from large glacial lakes to tranquil river-like expanses. The area's geography supports a rich array of flora and fauna, making it a destination for nature enthusiasts.
Best lakes around Lübeck
- The most popular lakes is Wakenitz Nature Reserve, an other natural area that features a hiking trail running almost parallel to the Wakenitz River. This trail offers well-developed paths through the nature reserve.
- Another must-see spot is Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, a lake within a forest. Visitors can expect to observe a variety of birds, including geese, cormorants, ducks, and potentially white-tailed eagles.
- Visitors also love View of Kleiner See, a viewpoint offering exceptional views of the surrounding nature. This spot provides a different perspective of the Wakenitz, with wide views, especially to the south.
- Lübeck is known for large glacial lakes, river-like waterways, and smaller bog lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct natural features and recreational activities.
- The lakes around Lübeck are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1500 upvotes and over 400 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
Brodtener Cliffs
Highlight • Gorge
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View of Kleiner See
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Wakenitz Nature Reserve
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
The trail runs almost parallel to the Wakenitz River, but has only a brief contact with the river in the southern section. Between the Moltkebrücke boat landing stage in Lübeck and Rothenhusen on Lake Ratzeburg, the trail is approximately 18 kilometers long. The waterway, served by the Wakenitz shipping company, is approximately 14 kilometers long.
The name refers to the former Lübeck factory owner Heinrich Dräger, whose foundation contributed both organizationally and financially. Additional funding was provided from the A 20 motorway project.
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Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area
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View of Lake Dassow
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Never Again Divided Memorial (Former Inner German Border)
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The information board is very interesting.
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Klempauer Hofsee
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Wesloer Moor Lake
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Schellbruch Nature Reserve
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It consists of the Great Lagoon and the Gothmunder Lagoon, which are separated from the Trave by the Treidelstieg. However, there is an exchange with the brackish water area of the Trave via outlets. The Medebek flows into the Great Lagoon from Lübeck's city forest Lauerholz. In addition to Dassower See, the Schellbruch is the most important bird protection area in Lübeck.
The Schellbruch has been under protection since 1983. In the 1970s, the approximately 30 hectare site was to be washed up in order to gain additional space for the operation of the port of Lübeck. Lübeck citizens opposed this, supported by the then mayor Robert Knüppel.
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schellbruch
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through the Borndiek hollow
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Popular around Lübeck
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Tips from the Community
Well, important stone with an important message. It is the northern end of the inner-German border.
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Direct access to the lake... Swimming is permitted here under supervision.
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Beautiful view over the idyllic lake
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It is becoming increasingly unimaginable that Germany was divided.
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Smooth asphalt, beautiful cycle path between Selmsdorf and Dassow
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The Dassower See is not an inland lake, but a side bay of the Traveförde.
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The bathing area and kiosk are on the back left side when viewed from the street.
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The towpath along the Trave is old but has a miserable surface - even by gravel standards...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and natural areas around Lübeck?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Wakenitz Nature Reserve, known for its hiking trails along the Wakenitz River. Another favorite is the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, a lake within a forest where you can observe various birds. The View of Kleiner See also offers exceptional perspectives of the Wakenitz's natural beauty.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities near Lübeck?
Yes, many lakes around Lübeck are suitable for families. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve and the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area are both marked as family-friendly. The Klempauer Hofsee offers a beach, and the Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is a historic and family-friendly bathing spot. The Hemmelsdorfer See also features the Naturbad Hemmelsdorfer See Offendorf, a well-equipped bathing area.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes and their surrounding nature reserves are rich in wildlife. At the Large lagoon in the Lauerholz conservation area, you might spot geese, cormorants, ducks, and potentially even white-tailed eagles. The Schaalsee, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is home to rare bird species like cranes and white-tailed eagles, while the Hemmelsdorfer See is known for its rich bird and fish population, especially in its northern nature reserve.
What are the best lakes for swimming near Lübeck?
The Ratzeburger See is known for its excellent water quality, making it ideal for swimming. The Hemmelsdorfer See offers the Naturbad Hemmelsdorfer See Offendorf, a well-equipped bathing area. Additionally, the Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is one of Northern Germany's oldest natural swimming pools.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Lübeck?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Wakenitz Nature Reserve features the Drägerweg, an 18-kilometer hiking trail running almost parallel to the Wakenitz River. The Ratzeburger See is enveloped by walking paths, with more challenging terrain on the east side and easier routes on the west. The Schaalsee offers over 150 kilometers of well-signposted hiking trails. You can find more routes in the Hiking around Lübeck guide.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Ratzeburger See has extensive cycling paths, with the east side offering more challenging routes and the west side providing easier rides with frequent lake views. The Schaalsee also boasts over 150 kilometers of biking trails. The Hemmelsdorfer See has extensive cycling paths, and the Wakenitz is perfect for relaxed canoe tours or panoramic cruises. For more cycling options, explore the Cycling around Lübeck guide.
What are the best lakes for water sports?
The Ratzeburger See is excellent for boating, sailing, windsurfing, and rowing, even hosting a top-tier rowing academy. The Großer Plöner See is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, and fishing. The Schaalsee also provides opportunities for boating, kayaking, and canoeing with rental stations available.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks near the lakes?
The town of Ratzeburg, located on an island in the Ratzeburger See, features a 12th-century Romanesque cathedral. The Falkenwiese Natural Swimming Pool on the Wakenitz is a historical site, being one of the oldest natural swimming pools in Northern Germany. The Bridge between Krähen- and Mühlenteich is also noted as a historical site.
Which lakes offer good viewpoints?
The View of Kleiner See provides exceptional views of the Wakenitz, especially to the south. The View of Lake Dassow offers beautiful lake vistas. The Hermann-Löns-Aussichtsturm at Hemmelsdorfer See provides panoramic views of the lake and its reed belt. The Wesloer Moor Lake also has idyllic spots with great views.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Lübeck?
The lakes offer beauty and activities year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, hiking, and cycling, with lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, perfect for scenic walks. While specific winter activities vary, some trails remain accessible, and the tranquil, often misty landscapes can be quite atmospheric for cooler-season walks.
Are there accessible options for visitors with mobility needs?
The Bridge between Krähen- and Mühlenteich is specifically marked as wheelchair accessible. While many paths around the lakes are well-maintained, it's advisable to check specific trail conditions for accessibility, as terrain can vary. The west side of Ratzeburger See offers easier routes, which might be more suitable.
Where can I find cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
The Klempauer Hofsee has a cafe nearby. At Hemmelsdorfer See, the Fischereihof in Hemmelsdorf is a pleasant spot for a break with food and drink. The town of Ratzeburg, situated on the Ratzeburger See, also offers various dining options. The Wakenitz allows for panoramic cruises to idyllic Rothenhusen, which likely has refreshment options.
Most popular routes around Lübeck
Most popular attractions around Lübeck
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