Natural monuments around Großer Plöner Lake encompass the largest and deepest lake in Schleswig-Holstein, known for its clear waters and diverse ecosystems. The region is characterized by its numerous islands and serves as a crucial habitat for various wildlife, particularly waterfowl. It is recognized as the most island-rich lake in Schleswig-Holstein and a significant breeding ground for birds. The landscape offers a blend of aquatic features, protected areas, and historical sites.
Last updated: August 21, 2026
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In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known example of the destructive effect of cormorant droppings, which virtually destroy vegetation. There was also a cormorant colony on an island in Lake Selent, which was later abandoned and subsequently recovered.
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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 Great Plön Lake attracts visitors in summer with bathing areas and good water sports opportunities. In addition to beautiful hikes and boat trips, a stroll through the small town of Plön is also worthwhile. With an area of around 28 square kilometers, the Great Plön Lake is the largest inland body of water in Schleswig-Holstein.
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There is a ban on the use of boat engines on the Great Plöner Lake (with exceptions for commercial shipping and rescue services). For several years now, electric motors for fishing boats and sailing boats (calm pushers) have been allowed on the Great Plöner Lake.
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Sailing school on Lake Plön with boat rental for pedal boats, rowing boats, SUP and sailing courses. The Plön sailing school offers a wide range of courses from May to October, with something for everyone: just a taster of sailing, courses for beginners, intensive advanced courses or sailing with a catamaran are all possible at the Plön sailing school as an individual, group or even class. There are also special sailing courses for children. Great group tours with dragon boats, canoes or sailing boats are ideal for your active holiday or as a team building event. In addition to sailing boats, fishing boats, rowing and pedal boats, dragon boats and stand-up paddling boards can be rented.
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Canoe pier directly on the Prince's Island Here you have the opportunity to moor and go to the beach opposite the Prince's Island. There are free toilets and a snack bar with seating. In the high season there is also a bathing jetty. The local restaurant is also well worth a visit - the "Restaurant & Cafe Prinzeninsel", which is only a few minutes' walk from the pier.
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Stand Up Paddling in the SUP area of Lake Plön As a SUP water, the Plön Lake District is suitable for both one-day SUP tours and a multi-day SUP trip. On the twelve natural lakes around Plön, water hiking on a stand-up paddling board never gets boring: enjoy the expanse of Lake Plön or experience sightseeing and amazing SUP spots in Plön's city bay - which can also be navigated with a SUP in winter. Of course, you should think about the right SUP clothing in winter here! The SUP piers in Plön are particularly practical: directly on the in-house jetty in the Seeprinz, picnic in the Plön boat harbor or a natural beach on the fishing grounds with various restaurants. And if you prefer something quieter, head for a secluded bay on the shore. Please adhere to the rules in the nature reserve and the general SUP rules. You can rent SUPs by the hour at the Wiederich sailing school.
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Holstein Switzerland is one of the most popular fishing areas between the seas. With over 200 fish-rich waters, it attracts guest anglers, professional anglers and hobby anglers alike to enjoy relaxed fishing. The beautiful natural lake landscape around the Great Plöner Lake offers everything an angler's heart desires: varied landscapes, a wide variety of fishing areas in various small and large fishing lakes, and target fish ranging from pike, perch, eel, bream, tench, catfish, zander, whitefish, carp and zander to whitefish. Every angler gets his money's worth here. And if you would like to stay longer than a day, you are guaranteed to find suitable accommodation.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, which offers views of Plön Castle and a restaurant in a converted farmhouse. Another favorite is Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön, known for its facilities and beautiful sunsets. Also notable is Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), a significant natural feature within the lake itself.
The Großer Plöner See region is a vital sanctuary for water and reed birds, serving as a crucial passage, breeding, and resting area. You might spot large flocks of ducks and divers, especially in spring. The white-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla) is a breeding bird here and can often be seen circling overhead, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching.
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Both Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön are family-friendly beaches with facilities. The Old Apple Orchard on Prinzeninsel is also a charming spot for families, offering a historic garden and a teahouse.
The region is rich in natural features. You can explore the lake itself, which is the most island-rich in Schleswig-Holstein. There are several beaches like Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, and viewpoints such as Empress's Favorite Spot – Prinzeninsel. The extensive Nature Reserve "Inseln im Großen Plöner See und Halbinsel Störland" offers diverse ecosystems, including grasslands and alder carrs.
Yes, some natural monuments also have historical significance. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel is located on the Prinzeninsel, which was purchased by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and has historical ties to the House of Hohenzollern. The Old Apple Orchard is a historic garden monument, once the kitchen and orchard of the Plön Residence.
The area around Großer Plöner Lake offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the "Langenrade Windmill Sventana – Plön Castle loop from Plön." There are also easy hiking trails like the "View of Great Plöner Lake – View of Plön Castle loop from Plön," and running trails. For more details, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Großer Plöner Lake, Easy hikes around Großer Plöner Lake, and Running Trails around Großer Plöner Lake guides.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the "View of Great Plöner Lake – View of Plön Castle loop from Plön" (7.6 km) or the "Great Plöner Lake – View of Plön Castle loop from Plön" (5.1 km). These trails allow you to experience the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings. For more options, refer to the Easy hikes around Großer Plöner Lake guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially of Plön Castle from Prinzeninsel. The opportunity to enjoy beautiful sunsets from beaches like Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön is also a highlight. The tranquil environment, idyllic bays, and the chance to connect with nature, such as in the historic Old Apple Orchard, are highly valued.
Absolutely. Empress's Favorite Spot – Prinzeninsel offers a beautiful sunset spectacle. From the Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, you get a wonderful view of Plön Castle. The Old Apple Orchard also features a teahouse on a small hill with stunning views of the lake, castle, and town.
Yes, the Großer Plöner See offers several spots for swimming and relaxation. Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön are popular choices, providing facilities like beach chairs and picnic benches. The lake's clear waters and idyllic bays invite visitors to swim, kayak, or simply enjoy the tranquil environment.
The Großer Plöner See is beautiful year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and cycling, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is vibrant. Spring is particularly good for birdwatching, as large flocks of ducks and divers moult their feathers here. Autumn offers stunning foliage, while winter can provide a serene, quiet experience, though some facilities might be limited.
While specific regulations vary by location, many natural areas around Großer Plöner Lake are generally dog-friendly, especially on trails and in open spaces. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the "Inseln im Großer Plöner See und Halbinsel Störland," to protect wildlife. Check local signage for specific rules at beaches or protected sites.


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