4.5
(1907)
13,110
hikers
113
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Bad Schwartau are situated within the diverse landscapes of the Holstein hills, characterized by green meadows, dense forests, and idyllic lakes. The region features a rolling, hilly terrain with glacial lakes and woodlands, offering varied scenic routes. Significant bodies of water like the Großer Pönitzer See and Hemmelsdorfer See provide numerous lakeside paths, while extensive forested areas such as the Riesebusch forest offer shaded trails. The town itself lies on the river Trave and the Schwartau creek, contributing to the area's natural appeal.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.7
(65)
208
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(38)
156
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(34)
128
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(42)
138
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(9)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Apart from the raised embankment, unfortunately not much else can be seen. A shelter offers protection and a place to rest.
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Beautiful rest area in the middle of a magnificent forest with a shelter and fire pit
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Perfect view of magnificent nature
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A beautiful path through untouched forest... for most of the way the trail runs above the pretty Schwartau river...
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A beautiful path through untouched forest... for most of the way the trail runs above the pretty Schwartau river...
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The old trees that flanked the root sections fell victim to the saw this year – before the ravages of time could take them down. It looks a bit bleak, but it's still fun, of course. (The fat stumps could maybe be used as a drop sometime 🤔😇)
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A beautiful path through the moor on a small peninsula. With benches along the way for a short break.
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On the other side of the Trave is the Schellbruch nature reserve
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Bad Schwartau offers a wide selection of routes perfect for families. You'll find over 100 hiking trails in the area, with more than 70 of them classified as easy, making them ideal for outings with children.
Yes, many of the paths around Bad Schwartau are well-maintained and suitable for prams. The Kurparksee Bad Schwartau – Gert-Kayser-Weg Boardwalk loop is a great option, offering a pleasant 7.2 km walk with minimal elevation gain, perfect for families with strollers.
The region around Bad Schwartau is characterized by diverse and picturesque natural landscapes. You'll encounter green meadows, dense forests like the Riesebusch, and idyllic lakes such as the Großer Pönitzer See and Hemmelsdorfer See. Many trails also follow the banks of the river Trave and the Schwartau creek, offering beautiful waterside views.
Absolutely! Circular routes are excellent for family outings. The Kurparksee Bad Schwartau loop is a popular choice, providing a scenic 9.3 km walk around the lake. Another great option is the Valley area of the Schwartau loop, which offers an engaging 8.9 km journey through the river valley.
The area boasts several points of interest. You can explore the historic Holsten Gate in Lübeck, or visit the Lübeck Market Square. For nature lovers, the Wakenitz Nature Reserve offers beautiful scenery, and the Great Pönitzer Lake is a lovely spot. Don't miss the View of Kleiner See for a picturesque vista.
Yes, many trails in and around Bad Schwartau are dog-friendly, allowing your furry family members to join the adventure. The extensive forested areas like Riesebusch are particularly popular for walks with dogs, offering plenty of space to explore.
Bad Schwartau is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly enchanting for family hikes. In spring, the landscape bursts into bloom, especially around lakes like the Großer Pönitzer See. Autumn transforms the forests, such as Riesebusch, into a vibrant display of colors, offering stunning scenery for your walks.
Yes, for panoramic views, consider a hike towards Pariner Berg. From the Bismarck Tower, you can enjoy expansive vistas of the rolling Holstein Switzerland region and the broad Lübeck Bay, which can be a rewarding experience for the whole family.
Parking is generally available at various starting points for trails around Bad Schwartau, especially near popular recreational areas and the town center. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages on komoot.
While specific routes with integrated cafe stops aren't always highlighted, many trails pass through or near Bad Schwartau's town center or villages where you can find cafes and restaurants. For example, the Kurparksee Bad Schwartau – Liubice Historic Milestone loop brings you close to amenities in Bad Schwartau itself, perfect for a post-hike treat.
The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Bad Schwartau, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful atmosphere of the forests and lakes, and the variety of easy routes that make it enjoyable for all ages and fitness levels.
Bad Schwartau is well-connected by public transport, making it possible to reach many trailheads without a car. The town's central location and local bus services provide access to various starting points for your family adventures.
Yes, you can combine nature with a touch of history. The Wilhelmsquelle – Wilhelm-Jensen Trail loop, for instance, takes you past the historic Wilhelmsquelle spring. The Riesebusch forest also contains historical elements, including a medieval Slavic castle site, offering an interesting discovery for families.


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