Top 13 Natural Monuments around Kudensee
Natural monuments around Kudensee offer a diverse landscape characterized by unique ecological features and significant geographic points. The region, located in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, is home to the Kudensee Nature Reserve, a relic of a former sea bay with extensive wetlands and reed beds. It also features the lowest land point in Germany, showcasing centuries of human engineering in marshland drainage. The area provides habitats for a variety of marsh and water birds, making it a notable destination for nature observation.
…Last updated: June 24, 2026
Lowest Point in Germany
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St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve
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Bismarck Rock at Hoper Klev
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Kleve Nature Reserve
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Kudensee Nature Reserve
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This remarkable boulder presumably reached the Dithmarscher Geest during the penultimate ice age 200,000 years ago. In the course of the preparations for the Kiel Canal from 1907 to 1914, the stone, with a length of 3.50 meters, a diameter of 2.00 meters, and a weight of 25 tons, came to light.
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As children, we used to jump and slide down a narrow sandy path directly from the Bismarck Stone to the Käthnersvierth.
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As a result of the strong melting of glaciers at the end of the last ice age (Weichsel), the sea level rose sharply and the western edge of Schleswig-Holstein's geest formed the coastline. In some places, such as the Barlter Kleve (Kleve = cliff, steep coast) near Gudendorf with a drop of 20 m, at the Kleve of Sankt Michaelisdonn (30 m drop) and between Kuden and Burg, the original cliffs formed by the surf are still visible.
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The "Kleve" nature reserve, located southeast of St. Michaelisdonn in the Hopen district of Dithmarschen, has existed as such since November 8, 1962. Parts of the "Hoper or Donner Kleve" were bought by a nature conservation association as early as 1914, and then placed under the protection ordinance under the Reich Nature Conservation Act in 1938. At 11.9 hectares, it is certainly one of the smallest nature reserves in Schleswig-Holstein, but due to its animal and plant populations, it is a real treasure trove.
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The outer dike of St. Margarethen is located near the Elbe and is now an important bird sanctuary. Originally, this area was part of a dike system that protected the hinterland from flooding. Over time, the harbor creek became increasingly silted up and port operations were discontinued. Today, the outer dike provides an important habitat for numerous bird species and is a popular destination for nature observation and cycling tours. The outer dike and the surrounding area are ideal for hikes and bike rides along the Elbe, with wonderful views of the passing ships. Historically, the area was also the site of a pilot station, but this was not rebuilt after a fire in 1902.
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Kudensee is a municipality in the Steinburg district in Schleswig-Holstein, and also the name of the largest lake in the Dithmarschen district. The Kudensee, with an area of 38.9 hectares, has been a nature reserve since 1935 and has been expanded to 172 hectares since 1992. The lake is the last shallow-water lake in the Elbe marshes and an important European bird sanctuary. It provides a habitat for numerous bird species, including the rare bittern, and serves as a resting place for many migratory birds. The Kudensee is characterized by its extensive reed beds, remnants of marsh forest and willow bushes. The bottom of the lake consists of both soft mud and hard sand. Due to its shallow depth of a maximum of 1.2 meters, the lake has an almost uniform temperature and oxygen distribution, except when the ice is closed, which can be unfavorable for the fish. The fish species living in the lake include bream, white bream, roach, perch, ruffe, eel, pike and zander.
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Very clean place with shelter and guest book
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Who can claim that they were once below sea level? Great highlight!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Kudensee?
The region around Kudensee offers several distinct natural features. You can visit the Lowest Point in Germany, a remarkable geographical site 3.54 meters below sea level, showcasing centuries of human engineering. The Kudensee Nature Reserve itself is a relic of a former sea bay, characterized by extensive reed beds and diverse habitats. Additionally, the St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve provides an Elbe foreland ecosystem with brackish grasslands and reed beds.
Are there any significant birdwatching opportunities near Kudensee?
Yes, the Kudensee area is a vital habitat for numerous bird species. The Kudensee Nature Reserve is a designated bird sanctuary and Natura 2000 site, serving as an important breeding, feeding, and resting ground for marsh and water birds, including endangered species like the black tern and white-tailed eagle. Similarly, the St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve is recognized as a significant area for birdlife, including the corn crake and barnacle geese.
What historical or cultural insights can I gain from visiting the natural monuments?
The Lowest Point in Germany offers significant historical context, with displays illustrating past storm surge levels and the immense human effort involved in draining and protecting the marshland. It highlights the ongoing struggle between human settlement and natural forces. Nearby, the historic Honigfleth pumping station showcases early engineering efforts in water management. You can also find the Bismarck Rock at Hoper Klev, a 25-ton boulder placed in honor of Bismarck after its discovery during the Kiel Canal expansion.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments to visit around Kudensee?
Absolutely. Several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Lowest Point in Germany is an educational and unique spot for all ages, with a small shelter and guest book. The St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve offers easy trails for walking and cycling, perfect for observing nature with children. The Bismarck Rock at Hoper Klev is also considered family-friendly.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments around Kudensee?
The area around Kudensee is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Kudensee Pumping Station – Kiel Canal loop' or 'Kudensee und Umgebung loop'. For mountain biking, routes such as 'Brunsbüttel Locks – Glückstadt Harbor loop' are available. Road cyclists can explore routes like 'Stör Barrage – Stör Barrier loop'. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Kudensee, MTB Trails around Kudensee, and Road Cycling Routes around Kudensee guides.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Kudensee?
The best time to visit the natural monuments around Kudensee largely depends on your interests. For birdwatching, spring and autumn are ideal due to migration periods, offering sightings of whooper and Bewick's swans, geese, and various marsh birds. Summer provides pleasant weather for hiking and cycling. The unique hydrological features and marsh landscapes can be appreciated year-round, though some areas might be wetter in colder months.
Are there any accessible natural monuments for visitors with mobility considerations?
The Lowest Point in Germany is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility considerations. Its location is directly on highway 135, with a clean place and shelter, ensuring ease of access.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments around Kudensee?
While specific dog-friendly designations for each natural monument are not always explicit, many outdoor areas in the region, including nature reserves, generally welcome dogs on a leash. The extensive trails in the St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve and around Kudensee are popular for walks, and responsible dog owners are usually accommodated. Always check local signage for specific restrictions within protected areas.
What is the 'Kleve Nature Reserve' and what makes it special?
The Kleve Nature Reserve, located southeast of St. Michaelisdonn, is one of Schleswig-Holstein's smallest but most valuable nature reserves. It's a treasure trove due to its diverse animal and plant populations. Historically, it represents an ancient cliff formed by the surf during the last ice age, with a significant drop in elevation. It offers a glimpse into the region's geological past and unique ecosystems.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Kudensee?
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique geographical significance of the Lowest Point in Germany, finding it an impressive and thought-provoking experience. The serene environment and rich birdlife of the St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve are also highly appreciated for nature observation and tranquil walks. The komoot community has shared over 270 photos and given more than 330 upvotes, highlighting the visual appeal and popularity of these sites.
Where is the lowest point in Schleswig-Holstein located?
The lowest point in Schleswig-Holstein is located in Neuendorf-Sachsenbande, near Wilster, and is also recognized as the Lowest Point in Germany. It lies 3.539 meters below sea level. This site is marked with signs and features a pole illustrating the height of the Elbe dikes and historical storm surge levels, emphasizing the region's unique geography and the importance of flood protection.
Are there circular walks available around the natural monuments?
Yes, the area offers several circular routes that allow you to experience the natural monuments. For instance, you can find circular walks around the Kudensee itself, such as the 'Kudensee und Umgebung loop'. The trails along the Elbe near the St. Margarethen Outer Dike Nature Reserve are also ideal for circular bike rides and hikes, offering scenic views of the river and its unique ecosystems.
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