4.6
(4773)
16,253
hikers
109
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Zarrentin am Schaalsee are set within the UNESCO Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve, a region defined by its diverse and protected natural landscapes. The area features the deep clearwater Schaalsee, numerous smaller lakes like Kirchensee and Garrensee, and the Schaale river. Hikers can explore a mosaic of habitats including forests, moors, wetlands, pastures, and fields, often traversing boardwalks through unique calcareous moor landscapes.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.7
(220)
847
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(90)
266
hikers
14.5km
04:26
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
36
hikers
24.3km
06:14
100m
100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(15)
66
hikers
1.55km
00:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.6
(5)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Zarrentin am Schaalsee
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I found it rather mediocre to ride (tours e-bike), but it is very beautiful there and there is a lot to see.
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There are many beautiful thatched-roof houses in the village.
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Good position
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The approximately 670 m long boardwalk offers various viewing platforms that invite you to linger. The moorland experience trail can generally be accessed from both sides. However, it is recommended to start below the Pahlhuus (Pahl House) and then return to the starting point at the end of the nature trail, around the old sports field. The entire circular trail is approximately 1.4 km long and, in my opinion, is wheelchair accessible. The moor provides a habitat for many specially adapted animals and plants. For example, the lime-loving bulrush covers a large area in the Zarrentin Moor; it is rarely seen in such large populations. The long, narrow leaves are slightly serrated at the edges and very hard due to the lime they absorb. This means that if you touch them too firmly, you can injure your fingers. The moorland was a cultivated landscape used by humans for a long time. From 1900 to 1961, lime was mined in the Zarrentin Moor and used as fertilizer or slaked lime. Until 1934, the extracted lime was burned in a lime kiln located on the southern edge of the moor. Peat, which was mined alongside the lime, was used as fuel, among other things. The rush cuttings were mown for the winter until the end of World War II and used as bedding for livestock. The waters created by lime mining are very low in nutrients and thus provide an ideal habitat for stoneworts, rare water beetles, and various dragonflies. Various amphibians, ducks, and birds such as the reed bunting, the reed warbler, and the kingfisher can be found in the reed beds along the shore. Source: https://www.schaalseestadt.de/moorlehrpfad
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The following legend surrounds the heraldic animal of the small town of Zarrentin am Schaalsee: "In the Cistercian nunnery, there once lived an abbess who came from Lake Constance, and the tasty whitefish were said to have been her favorite food there. Once, during Lent, in the solitude of Zarrentin, she was so irresistibly overcome by a craving for the long-deprived fish that she called upon the devil and demanded that he bring her some whitefish from Lake Constance. In return, she would pledge her soul to him. However, he had to be back before midnight. The enterprising master of evil agreed and immediately set off. No sooner had he disappeared than the abbess's conscience struck. In her perplexity, she called the convent of nuns together and remorsefully confessed her transgression. Then one of the nuns stood up, calmed the pious mother, climbed the tower, and set the clock forward one hour. It was now 11:00 p.m., and the devil was with his fish above Techin. Then the Zarrentin monastery clock struck twelve thunderous strokes. In his rage, the devil threw the whitefish into the Schaalsee. This is how these fish, which have made the Schaalsee so famous among gourmets, are caught there today. Source: https://schaalsee-angler.de/ausflug/geschichte-der-mar-ne
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A roughly 4 km long circular trail leads around the Kirchensee lake. From this path, you can see two lakes at once: the Schaalsee and the Kirchensee lake. It leads through an old tree-lined avenue, through a moor, and along the shores of both lakes.
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The region offers a wide variety of hiking opportunities, with over 100 trails available. More than 50 of these are classified as easy, making them ideal for families with children.
Spring and autumn are particularly lovely for family hikes. In spring, you'll see abundant snowdrops, while summer offers a symphony of bird songs. The clear waters of the lakes are also inviting for a swim during warmer months.
The komoot community highly rates the trails around Zarrentin am Schaalsee, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 4,300 ratings. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, the diverse natural landscapes of the Biosphere Reserve, and the well-maintained paths suitable for all ages.
Yes, several trails are suitable for strollers. The Moorerlebnispfad (Moor Experience Path) is a short, easy loop that is generally accessible and offers boardwalks through unique wetland landscapes, perfect for families with young children and strollers.
Many trails in the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash to protect the sensitive ecosystem and wildlife. Always check local signage for specific regulations, especially in nature reserve zones.
Families can explore a variety of natural and historical sights. Keep an eye out for bird watching platforms, like the one offering views of the Schaalsee and Kirchensee. You might also visit the historic Hellbach Valley Nature Reserve or the Schwarzsee Viewing Platform. The On the Green Belt-Zarrentin/Kirchensee trail, for example, leads through an old tree-lined avenue and along lake shores.
Absolutely! The Moorerlebnispfad is a fantastic short loop, just over 1.5 km, perfect for little legs. Another great option is the Kirchensee Circular Trail, which is approximately 4 km and offers beautiful views of both the Schaalsee and Kirchensee.
Yes, the clear waters of the Schaalsee are perfect for a refreshing dip. There are designated lidos and swimming areas, such as the Zarrentin lido, where families can safely enjoy the lake after their hike.
Zarrentin am Schaalsee is generally accessible by public transport, though options may vary. The Pahlhuus, the information center for the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve, is a good starting point and can provide details on local bus connections to trailheads. It's advisable to check schedules in advance.
Zarrentin am Schaalsee offers several cafes and restaurants, particularly in the town center and near the lake, where families can refuel. While specific playgrounds directly adjacent to every trailhead might be limited, the town itself often has facilities for children. The Pahlhuus information center can also guide you to family-friendly amenities.
The region boasts several excellent viewpoints. The Schwarzsee Viewing Platform and the Schaalseehof Observation Tower offer panoramic vistas. Many trails, like the Kirchensee Circular Trail, also provide stunning views of the Schaalsee and its surrounding landscapes.


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