Top 20 Lakes around Schwanheide
Lakes around Schwanheide are situated in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany, bordering the UNESCO Lake Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. This region is part of the Mecklenburg Lake District, characterized by numerous interconnected lakes and rivers. The Schaalsee, Northern Germany's deepest clearwater lake, is a central feature, offering a protected natural environment. The area provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and observing diverse wildlife.
Best lakes around Schwanheide
- The most popular lakes is Lanzer Lake, a lake that offers views along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. It is connected to the Elbe-Lübeck Canal and is located near Basedow.
- Another must-see spot is Former Gravel Pit East of Basedow Nature Reserve, a natural monument covering approximately 57 hectares. This nature reserve protects a habitat for flora and fauna within a former soil extraction site.
- Visitors also love Stecknitz-Delvenau Lowlands Nature Reserve, an other natural area with wide meadows. This reserve was formed by meltwater flows from the last ice age and features the Delvenau meltwater channel.
- Schwanheide is known for natural lakes, former gravel pits, and nature reserves that include lake features. The area offers a variety of water bodies, from clearwater lakes to protected wetlands, suitable for exploration.
- The lakes around Schwanheide are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and 23 photos shared across 4 highlights.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Lanzer Lake
Highlight • Lake
The name of the lake goes back to the municipality of Lanze near Basedow. It was created in the course of gravel mining (quarry pond) and is privately owned. There is a campsite on the lake shore. The small island in the lake may not be entered for nature conservation reasons. Unfortunately, the island is not listed in the Komoot map, but in Google Maps.
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Stecknitz-Delvenau Lowlands Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural
There is only a small remnant of the Delvenau. Instead, new bodies of water have been created through the gravel extraction. The moon bird or moon spot (Phalera bucephala) is a moth from the tooth spinner family. Its caterpillars feed on the numerous tree species, including to Salix caprea. The Sal willow (Salix caprea) is an important first fodder plant for insects such as honey bees, wild bees and bumblebees due to its early flowering period from the beginning of March.
Despite this deterioration in the water regime, subsidence in the wet meadows and a reduction in biodiversity, this area from Büchen to Lauenburg has been placed under protection, first as an NSG, then the stream itself with 10 m of marginal strips as an FFH area because of its two species of fish that are worthy of protection. the loach and the mud peacock.
Source and further detailed information:
botanischerverein.de/aktion-und-projekte/gebietsbetreuung-durch-den-botanischen-verein/nsg-stecknitz-delvenau-niederung
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stecknitz-Delvenau-Niederung
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Former Büchen Harbor Basin
Highlight • Structure
My guess is that the port dates from the time when large gravel and sand pits were active in this area. Because whole shiploads were then transported through the canal e.g. promoted to Hamburg.
Unfortunately, nothing can be found on the Internet 🙁
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Former Gravel Pit East of Basedow Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
The area serves to protect and permanently safeguard a small-scale habitat of a particularly protected, regionally typical flora and fauna in a former soil extraction site with several well-structured bedwaters, valuable secondary habitats as habitats for semi-ruderal pioneer and wild herbaceous vegetation, access shrubs, bare soil areas, and steep cliffs.
To permanently protect the core zone, the adjacent areas are incorporated into the nature reserve as a buffer and development zone.
This includes agricultural land, forest areas, and a remnant of heath forest in the north of the area.
schleswig-holstein.nabu.de/natur-und-landschaft/nabu-schutzgebiete/ehemalige-baggergrube/03054.html
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Forellensee Campsite
Highlight • Rest Area
For hikers, cyclists, anglers and water enthusiasts there is a rich offer in the natural surroundings of the square.
More detailed information:
campingplatz-forellensee.de/platz.php
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Tips from the Community
Nice place for a short break by the canal
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Very nice renatured areas. An administrative official certainly received a commendation for the name “former excavator pits nature reserve east of Basedow”.
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The approximately 57 hectare nature reserve is registered under number 151 in the directory of nature reserves of the Ministry of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Areas. It was expelled in 1991. In the east it borders on the "Stecknitz-Delvenau-Niederung" nature reserve. The district Duchy of Lauenburg is responsible for the lower nature conservation authority. The protected area is east of Basedow. It is bounded in the west by the Lübeck–Lüneburg railway line and in the north by the Elbe-Lübeck Canal.
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Very nice path through nature!
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Nice trail east of the canal
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Great for a little rest
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes and natural areas to explore around Schwanheide?
The most prominent lake is the Schaalsee, part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its clear waters and diverse natural environment. Other notable areas include Lanzer Lake, which offers views along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal, and the Former Gravel Pit East of Basedow Nature Reserve, a protected habitat for diverse flora and fauna.
Are there opportunities for swimming in the lakes near Schwanheide?
Yes, the Schaalsee is known for its excellent water quality and offers designated swimming areas in locations like Dargow, Lassahn, Seedorf, and at the Zarrentin lido. These spots are ideal for enjoying the clear waters.
What kind of hiking and cycling trails can I find around the lakes?
The UNESCO Lake Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve features an extensive network of 150 kilometers of hiking and cycling trails. These paths wind through diverse landscapes including forests, moors, wetlands, and charming villages. For specific routes, you can explore guides like Easy hikes around Schwanheide or MTB Trails around Schwanheide.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Schwanheide area?
Many areas around Schwanheide are suitable for families. Lanzer Lake and the Former Gravel Pit East of Basedow Nature Reserve are categorized as family-friendly. The extensive network of trails around the Schaalsee also includes routes suitable for families and beginners.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Schwanheide?
Yes, some areas are dog-friendly. For instance, the Former Büchen Harbor Basin has spots where both two and four-legged friends can cool off. Always check local regulations for specific lakes and nature reserves regarding dogs.
What natural features are particularly noteworthy in this region?
The region is characterized by the Schaalsee, Northern Germany's deepest clearwater lake, with its islands, peninsulas, bays, and vast reedbeds. The Stecknitz-Delvenau Lowlands Nature Reserve showcases wide meadows formed by meltwater flows from the last ice age, featuring the Delvenau meltwater channel.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Schwanheide?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but the warmer months (spring to autumn) are ideal for swimming, hiking, and cycling. Spring and autumn are also excellent for nature observation, especially for migratory birds around the Schaalsee. Winter offers tranquil walks, though specific activities might be limited.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks near the lakes?
While the focus is primarily on natural beauty, the Former Büchen Harbor Basin is a site with historical significance related to the Elbe-Lübeck Canal and past industrial activities, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage.
What kind of water sports are available on the Schaalsee?
To preserve its ecological value, strict regulations apply to the Schaalsee. However, guided boat tours, particularly with electric boats, are available. Water sports like canoeing or sailing might be possible with specific restrictions.
Where can I find accommodation or campsites near the lakes?
The Forellensee Campsite is located in the south of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, surrounded by a wonderful lake landscape and the Elbe-Lübeck Canal, offering a rich experience for hikers, cyclists, anglers, and water enthusiasts.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Schwanheide?
Visitors highly appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and untouched nature, especially around the Schaalsee. The clear waters, extensive trails for hiking and cycling, and opportunities for nature observation are frequently highlighted. The picturesque scenery and peaceful environment make it an ideal destination for relaxation.
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