Best natural monuments around Schmalensee are primarily found within the municipality of Schmalensee in Schleswig-Holstein, centered around the Great Plön Lake. This region features the largest inland body of water in Schleswig-Holstein, covering about 28 square kilometers. The lake is characterized by its islands, such as Prinzeninsel and Sterin Island, and offers numerous bathing areas. Its shores include gently sloping sandy beaches, providing a tranquil environment for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 24, 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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From here you have a beautiful view of the lake
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I can't recommend the tour around Lake Plön. About 66% of the route is on unpaved, potholed forest paths. It's more of a hiking trail than a bike path. The route is very, very poorly signposted.
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In the west of the island is the approximately 100-meter-wide sandy beach. The gently sloping shore offers ideal bathing conditions for children. In summer, a DLRG post is manned here. But adults also experience the purest holiday atmosphere. With lush forest in the background, you have a relaxing view of the lake landscape. Small islands interrupt the calm surface of the water, in which the sun reflects when the weather is nice. Canoes, boats and stand-up paddlers move across the lake and take disturbing thoughts of everyday stress with them. This makes the island a place to switch off and recharge.
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Beach between the Princes' Island in the Great Plön Lake with a sandy beach and DLRG. At the end of the idyllic Princes' Island is the natural beach with a view of the sunset included. As a destination for a day trip or a rest stop, you should not miss the approximately 100 m wide, gently sloping sandy beach. The bathing area can only be reached on foot, by bike or by excursion boat. The bathing area is guarded by the DLRG and has a kiosk, toilet, shower, playground and in summer also a volleyball net. Parking spaces are located on the Ascheberger Chaussee (approx. 2 km to the bathing area).
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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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The primary natural feature is the Great Plön Lake, the largest inland body of water in Schleswig-Holstein. It's characterized by its islands, such as Prinzeninsel and Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), as well as numerous bathing areas and gently sloping sandy beaches.
Yes, many natural monuments around Schmalensee are family-friendly. Both Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön offer facilities and sandy beaches ideal for families. The Old Apple Orchard on Prinzeninsel is also a pleasant spot for families to explore.
The Prinzeninsel, for example, was purchased by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and remains owned by the House of Hohenzollern. The Old Apple Orchard is a historic garden monument, once the kitchen and orchard of the Plön Residence, with a replica of King Christian VIII's former summer pavilion.
Absolutely. There are various hiking opportunities around Schmalensee. You can find easy to moderate trails, such as the 'View of the Schmalensee – Schmalensee Bathing Area loop' or the 'Belau Castle – View of Lake Belau loop'. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Schmalensee.
The region is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for swimming, boating, and enjoying the beaches and lush landscapes. Autumn offers scenic views with changing foliage, while winter can transform the area into a serene, snow-covered landscape, especially if the lakes freeze for ice skating.
Yes, particularly around the Great Plön Lake. Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See) is well-known for its cormorant colonies, offering a unique chance to observe these birds in their natural habitat.
Several spots offer excellent views. From Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel, you get a wonderful view of Plön Castle. The Empress's Favorite Spot – Prinzeninsel also provides a beautiful sunset spectacle over the lake. The Old Apple Orchard offers stunning views of the lake, castle, and town.
While specific regulations vary, many outdoor areas and trails around Schmalensee are dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check local signage for any restrictions.
Beyond hiking, the Great Plön Lake offers excellent water sports opportunities like canoeing, stand-up paddling, and sailing. You can also find various cycling routes, including road cycling and touring bicycle options. Explore more activities through the road cycling routes or general cycling routes around Schmalensee.
Yes, the region around the Great Plön Lake, including the town of Plön and nearby villages, offers various gastronomic options and accommodations. For instance, the farmhouse on Prinzeninsel now houses a beautiful tourist restaurant.
Visitors frequently praise the serene escape offered by the Great Plön Lake, the opportunities for swimming and boating, and the relaxing atmosphere of the sandy beaches. The stunning views, especially sunsets from spots like Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön, are also highly appreciated.
While the main attractions are well-known, the Great Plön Lake features many idyllic bays and small beaches that can offer a more secluded experience. Exploring the various trails around the lake can also lead to quieter spots away from the main visitor areas.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Schmalensee: