4.6
(10505)
37,869
hikers
488
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Großer Plöner Lake are situated within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, a region shaped by glacial activity. The landscape features deep blue waters, lush forests, and gentle hills, with the lake itself being the largest and deepest in Schleswig-Holstein. Over 20 islands, many designated nature reserves, contribute to the diverse environment. This area provides varied terrain for hiking, from lakeside paths to routes through undulating hills.
Last updated: July 13, 2026
4.6
(386)
1,253
hikers
13.0km
03:21
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(398)
1,153
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(201)
560
hikers
14.4km
03:44
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(81)
252
hikers
22.2km
05:46
140m
140m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(42)
162
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Großer Plöner Lake
Schloss Plön is the last large castle construction in Schleswig-Holstein and the state's first three-winged complex. Situated high above the Plöner See, the castle, built between 1630 and 1636, still shapes the town's silhouette today. Three predecessor structures can be proven on the Schlossberg, the oldest dating back to before 1139. From 1156 to 1390, the medieval castle was owned by the Counts of Schauenburg. After numerous changes of ownership, the castle finally came into the possession of Johann II of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Glücksburg. His son Joachim Ernst had it demolished and built the castle, which is still largely preserved in its external structure today, between 1630 and 1636. Herrenhaeuser.sh
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A lovely rest area at the narrow point between Höftsee and Behler See... Just sit down and let nature work its magic.
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Every meal tastes better with the view
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There are always beautiful places.
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At several points along the trail, you can see Lake Plön. Fantastic!
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Behind the Prince's House stretched the extensive palace park, once laid out by Duke Friedrich Carl with artfully trimmed hedges and trees, gravel paths, and fountains in strict symmetry in the Baroque style. After the palace park had grown into a dense forest in the 19th century, it was thinned again after 1839. From the once strictly circumscribed Baroque garden, the garden inspector Schaumburg transformed it into a loosely organized, expansive English park. The two bordering linden avenues, however, remained and have been preserved to this day. At the end of the palace park, there is now a sports field used for school and club purposes. The park is open to the public free of charge year-round. See: https://www.ploen.de/PL%C3%96N-erleben/Parks-Natur/Parks-G%C3%A4rten-Obstwiesen/
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Plön Castle is one of the largest castles in Schleswig-Holstein and the only one preserved at an elevated location. It is located in the town of Plön in the district of the same name. The former residence of the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön was built in the 17th century during the Thirty Years' War. It has had a turbulent history, serving, among other things, as a cadet school and boarding school. Most recently owned by the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Plön Castle was sold due to the state's inability to finance necessary renovations. Since January 2002, it has belonged to the "Fielmann Academy Plön Castle" and, following extensive renovations, serves the optics and hearing aid industry as a training and qualification center. After the castle had been closed to the public for many years due to the boarding school, the new owner opened it to a limited number of visitors. See: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Pl%C3%B6n
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A gem on the large Plön Lake
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There are over 480 hiking routes around Großer Plöner Lake that are accessible from bus stations. This includes a wide variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for hiking around Großer Plöner Lake. The weather is pleasant, the natural scenery is vibrant, and there are fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
Yes, the region offers many easy options. Out of the available bus-accessible routes, over 280 are classified as easy, making them perfect for beginners, families, or those looking for a relaxed stroll through the picturesque landscape of Holstein Switzerland.
The bus-accessible trails around Großer Plöner Lake are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 3,200 ratings. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the stunning lake views, and the convenience of reaching trailheads via public transport.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop without needing to retrace your steps. An example is the moderate route, View of Great Plöner Lake – Plön Castle loop from Plön, which offers scenic views and returns you to your starting point.
Many trails around Großer Plöner Lake are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife. Be mindful of local regulations and ensure your dog is comfortable with public transport if you plan to use the bus.
Absolutely. The region has numerous trails suitable for families. Look for routes classified as 'easy' or those with shorter distances. The Kleines Warder Peninsula – St. Petri Church Bosau loop from Bosau is a moderate option that is manageable for families and offers interesting sights.
Many bus-accessible trails pass by notable attractions. You can enjoy views of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, visit the tranquil Sterin Island, or relax at Prinzenbad Beach on Prinzeninsel. The majestic Plön Castle is also often visible from trails around the town of Plön.
The trails around Großer Plöner Lake offer a diverse landscape typical of Holstein Switzerland. You'll encounter deep blue glacial lakes, rolling hills, lush forests, and charming thatched-roof houses. Many routes provide panoramic views of the lake and its numerous islands.
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, there are moderate to difficult routes available. For example, the View of Lake Plön (Großer Plöner See) – View of Great Plöner Lake loop from Schloss Plön is a longer, moderate hike covering nearly 18 km, offering extensive views and varied terrain.
Many towns and villages around Großer Plöner Lake, such as Plön and Malente, have bus stations that are close to cafes, restaurants, and shops. It's a good idea to check the specific bus stop and its surroundings before your hike to plan for refreshments.
Yes, the region is known for its beautiful lakes and swimming spots. Prinzeninsel, for instance, offers Prinzenbad Beach with gently sloping shores, ideal for swimming. This area is often accessible via bus routes and a short walk.


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