The best traffic-free bike rides around Großer Plöner Lake
4.6
(67)
733
riders
16
rides
Road cycling around Großer Plöner See offers routes through gently rolling landscapes, characterized by numerous shimmering lakes and extensive beech forests. The region, nestled within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, provides a network of cycling paths with good surfaces, including paved roads and dedicated bike paths. While some routes feature gentle hills, many sections are predominantly flat, often following the water's edge. The area is defined by its natural beauty and diverse terrain, suitable for various fitness levels.
Best no…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
5.0
(7)
46
riders
35.8km
01:35
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
23
riders
36.1km
01:47
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
16
riders
55.4km
02:23
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(4)
18
riders
37.5km
01:44
210m
210m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
7
riders
49.0km
02:07
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Großer Plöner Lake
The Monks' Trail – From Bremen to the Baltic Sea
The National Natural Landscapes in Schleswig-Holstein
Culinary cycle tours on Germany’s Baltic coast
Magic Moments — 6 magical places in Germany and Denmark
33 lakes for sunny weekends
Mönchsweg – Radeln auf den Spuren der Mönche in Schleswig-Holstein
Traffic-free bike rides around Großer Plöner Lake
Traffic-free bike rides around Großer Plöner Lake
Other adventures around Großer Plöner Lake
Tips from the Community
The Langenrade windmill (also known as the "Sventana" windmill) is an impressive historical monument in the municipality of Ascheberg, very close to Plön.
2
1
Plön's town bay, located in the northern part of Lake Plön, features lakeside restaurants, a boat landing, and a marina. Plön's town bay has much to offer, most notably the magnificent view of Plön Castle. Along the bay, you'll find numerous restaurants, a beautiful, long lakeside promenade perfect for strolling, and the Marktbrücke landing stage for the Grand Plön Lake Tour. On Eutiner Straße, between the residential area and the sailing club, lies a fishing area with a jetty, an entry point for divers, and a launch and landing area for stand-up paddleboards (SUPs).
7
1
The only fully functional of the three windmills within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park is located in Ascheberg-Langenrade. The windmill, named "Sventana," was built in 1860 in Kleinmühlen near Plön. It has stood in Ascheberg only since 1890, replacing a predecessor that burned down. In 1982, three couples with a passion for windmills decided to restore it to working order. After considerable financial investment and many hours of labor, the single-story smock mill has been operational and flying again since 1990. The restoration of the mill's sails was financially supported, among other things, by state funds for nature parks.
3
1
Plön's town bay is a section of the Großer Plöner See (Great Plön Lake) in the north of the town. It is an important recreational area, offering a beach promenade, a marina, restaurants, and a pier for boat trips. Annual highlights include the three-day town bay festival with music and interactive activities, as well as an open-air cinema on the shore.
10
2
Hardly any traffic, great surface
0
1
Nice speed track for the racing bike
0
0
Plön Town Bay in the northern part of Lake Plön with lakeside restaurants, a pier, and a sailing harbor. Plön Town Bay has much to offer, but above all, the magnificent view of Plön Castle. Along the town bay, there are many restaurants, a beautiful long beach path for strolling, and the Marktbrücke pier for the Great Plön Lake Cruise. On Eutiner Straße, between the residential area and the sailing club, there is a fishing area with a jetty, a diving launch, and a launch/drop-off point for SUPs.
22
1
200 lakes close together, with Schleswig-Holstein's largest lake at its center: that's Holstein Switzerland. It's not without reason that this "lake paradise" is one of the most popular vacation regions for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and those seeking a break from the city. The Great Plön Lake, with its deep blue waters and pristine shoreline, entices visitors to a relaxing stay on, in, and around the lake. Whether paddling, sailing, fishing, swimming, diving, or golfing near the lake – the options are endless. Furthermore, the 30-square-kilometer water surface with a depth of 58 meters invites you to enjoy relaxing lake views. And all around the lake, picturesque towns such as Plön, Bosau, and Dersau boast a wealth of culture, history, and nature. It's no wonder this lake has been awarded the "Favorite Lake of Schleswig-Holstein" seal several times in a row. Experience the Great Plön Lake The Great Plön Lake is a unique experience. That's for sure. Located in the heart of the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, it makes the hearts of nature and animal lovers beat faster. Furthermore, it has also been receiving top marks for water quality for years, just like all the other bodies of water around it. This is why the Global Nature Fund awarded the lakes and waterways of Holstein Switzerland the title of "Living Lakes" in 2020. So, if you're looking for relaxation in a naturally beautiful lake idyll, a day trip or vacation to the Great Plön Lake is just the thing. Furthermore, there are plenty of other adventure options around the lake. For example, you can enjoy a leisurely fish dinner at Seeprinz in Plön or at Strauers in Bosau. Or after a relaxing stroll across the Princes' Island, stop by one of the many lakeside cafés. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of one of our sea eagles.
14
2
Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free road cycling routes are available around Großer Plöner Lake?
There are 15 dedicated road cycling routes around Großer Plöner Lake that focus on minimizing traffic, offering a serene experience. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the typical terrain and surface like for road cycling around Großer Plöner Lake?
The terrain around Großer Plöner Lake is characterized by gently rolling landscapes, with many sections being predominantly flat, especially along the water's edge. You'll find excellent cycling paths, including paved roads, dedicated bike paths, and smaller side roads, all designed to provide a smooth, traffic-free road cycling experience.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 3 easy, traffic-free road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Schönweide–Grebin Scenic Road – Schönweide Country Road loop from Plön, which offers a gentle ride with minimal elevation gain, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenic beauty without concerns about heavy traffic.
What kind of landmarks and viewpoints can I expect to see along these routes?
The routes offer numerous picturesque landmarks and viewpoints. You can enjoy stunning vistas like the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge or the View of the Großer Plöner See from the southern shore. Plön Castle, an impressive 17th-century structure, also provides a majestic backdrop to many rides.
What natural features can be observed while cycling around Großer Plöner Lake?
Großer Plöner See is nestled within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park, offering rich natural beauty. You'll cycle past extensive beech forests and shimmering lakes. The lake itself is home to over 30 islands, including Sterin Island, and serves as a vital breeding ground for waterfowl, including the protected sea eagle, which you might spot overhead.
Are there any circular road cycling routes that avoid traffic?
Many of the routes around Großer Plöner Lake are designed as circular loops, perfect for traffic-free road cycling. For example, the Gut Wahlstorf Manor – Langenrade Windmill Sventana loop from Plön offers a moderate circular ride, allowing you to start and end in the same location while enjoying diverse scenery.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in this region?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.65 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's tranquil, traffic-free roads, the stunning lake views, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and safe road cycling experience amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Is it possible to access these road cycling routes using public transport?
Yes, the charming town of Plön, situated directly on Großer Plöner See, is well-connected by public transport. You can easily reach Plön by train, and many of the road cycling routes start directly from or near the town, making it convenient to begin your traffic-free adventure without a car.
Where can I find parking if I drive to Großer Plöner Lake for road cycling?
Parking facilities are available in the towns and villages surrounding Großer Plöner Lake, such as Plön, Bosau, and Dersau. These locations often have designated parking areas suitable for visitors, providing convenient access points to the traffic-free road cycling routes.
Are there any longer, more challenging traffic-free road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a longer, traffic-free challenge, routes like the Rethwisch–Fladenritt Road – Country Lanes Near Martensrade loop from Plön offer a substantial distance of over 80 km with moderate elevation gain. These routes utilize quiet country lanes and dedicated paths to ensure a rewarding ride with minimal traffic.
What is the best time of year to enjoy traffic-free road cycling around Großer Plöner Lake?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months are ideal for traffic-free road cycling around Großer Plöner Lake. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, the landscapes are vibrant, and the lake offers refreshing views. The good surfaces of the cycling paths ensure enjoyable rides throughout these periods.
Most popular routes around Großer Plöner Lake
Most popular attractions around Großer Plöner Lake
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
