Best lakes around Raakmoor are located within the Raakmoor Nature Reserve, a 115-hectare protected area in northern Hamburg. This reserve features a renaturated raised bog landscape, with the Raakmoor Pond as a central water body. The area is a habitat for various wildlife, including wading birds, ducks, geese, and rare butterflies, set within a regenerating moorland ecosystem. Visitors can find easy hiking opportunities and observation points offering views of the wetlands.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The exotic Mandarin duck can also be seen regularly in the rainwater retention basin. Carp, rudd, tench, perch and pike also swim here. Fishing is prohibited here, however!
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If you run early enough, shortly after sunrise, you will see all the paths still very empty and have the chance of encountering deer, pigs, and much more. And they’re not that shy anymore 😄
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The Raakmoor is the remainder of a raised bog that arose after the last ice age in the headwaters of one of the Alster tributaries. The nature reserve consists mostly of swamp forest, but has a regenerating moor area in the center. At 33 hectares, the Raakmoor is one of the smallest nature reserves in Hamburg. The former high moor was destroyed by peat removal and drainage in order to use it for landscape purposes. But now, with a little help, the area is in the process of getting back to its original state. Due to the removal of peat from the moor and the associated changes, the Raakmoor has a vegetation that is atypical for a moor, with many coniferous and deciduous trees. But these places are also turning more and more into broken forest. This shows that the area is changing back to a raised bog. In the meantime, moor-typical plants such as bog lily, heather, peat moss or the insectivorous sundew can be discovered again in the Raakmoor. In between there are toads, adders, numerous species of dragonflies and rare butterflies that call Raakmoor home. The paths in the nature reserve are well developed for hiking. There are romantic hiking trails along the watercourses, and there are also footbridges for crossing the wet moor areas. https://www.hamburg.de/wandern-excursion-hamburg/298158/wandern-raakmoor/
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Exactly the right place to unwind and switch off.
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From this platform you have a great view over the moor. There is a second platform almost opposite.
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We even saw a male mandarin duck. This kind of duck doesn't really belong here anymore .. unfortunately: - https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandarinente
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Raakmoor, beautiful nature, hardly ever to meet people, easy paths, a bit muddy in places. Fantastic, that makes you feel like you're on holiday. We recommend.
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The Raakmoor Nature Reserve features a unique landscape with renaturated raised bog lakes, retention ponds, and moorland lakes. These water bodies are central to the area's ecosystem, supporting diverse wildlife and offering scenic views.
The Raakmoor lakes are part of a regenerating moorland ecosystem. You can observe typical plants like bog lily, heather, and peat moss. The area is a crucial habitat for numerous wading birds, ducks, and geese, including the exotic Mandarin duck. Other wildlife includes toads, adders, dragonflies, and rare butterflies. Observation points and viewing platforms provide excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Yes, there are several easy hiking loops around the Raakmoor lakes, such as the 'Raakmoor Pond – View of Raakmoor loop' and 'Raakmoorgraben – Raakmoor Pond loop'. Paths are generally well-developed, with some footbridges for crossing wetter moor areas, making them suitable for various fitness levels. For more detailed routes, you can explore options like the Cycling around Raakmoor guide, which also includes walking paths.
Yes, the Raakmoor lakes are considered family-friendly. Highlights like Raakmoor Retention Pond and View of Raakmoorteich are specifically noted as family-friendly. The easy hiking paths and opportunities for birdwatching make it an enjoyable outing for all ages.
The Raakmoor Nature Reserve is generally dog-friendly, but specific leash rules apply to protect the sensitive ecosystem and wildlife. It's advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially near observation points and during bird breeding seasons, to avoid disturbing the local fauna.
The summer months are particularly good for birdwatching, as numerous wading birds, ducks, and geese can be observed. The regenerating moorland also offers vibrant flora during warmer seasons. Winter conditions can be explored, but paths might be affected by weather.
The Raakmoor Nature Reserve is located in northern Hamburg and is accessible via public transport. Specific bus routes and stops in the Hummelsbüttel or Langenhorn areas would provide the closest access points to the reserve.
While many paths are well-developed, the nature of a regenerating moorland means some areas might be uneven or have footbridges. It's best to check local signage for specific information on accessible routes, though many easy loops are generally manageable.
Beyond hiking, the area around Raakmoor offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for touring bicycles, road cycling, and gravel biking. Explore guides like Cycling around Raakmoor or Gravel biking around Raakmoor for detailed routes.
The Raakmoor Nature Reserve is primarily a natural area. While there are no facilities directly within the reserve, you can find cafes and restaurants in the nearby districts of Hummelsbüttel and Langenhorn.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the Raakmoor lakes. The opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, especially birds like the Mandarin duck, and the unique regenerating moorland landscape are often highlighted. The well-developed paths and observation points also contribute to a positive experience.
No, swimming is generally prohibited in the Raakmoor lakes. As a nature reserve and retention basin, the focus is on conservation and wildlife protection. The water bodies are not designated for recreational swimming.


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