Best attractions and places to see around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee include a 90-hectare nature reserve located southeast of Winsen (Luhe). This protected area features the 60-hectare Rethmoorsee Lake, which originated from a former gravel pit and now supports diverse aquatic life. The reserve offers varied natural landscapes, including grasslands, reed beds, and woodlands, providing habitats for numerous plant and animal species. Designated paths and observation stations allow visitors to explore its natural features and observe wildlife.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee
Extremely overgrown trail - mostly impossible to see where it goes - but a beautiful trail along a canal.
0
0
You cannot get to the lake because it is surrounded by a wide ditch. In addition, several prohibition signs are clearly visible on the bank. The actual path leads between a pasture fence and said ditch. Boots were mandatory here in March - the ground was very muddy on this section! Nevertheless, it is worth including this path on a hike. Wide, easy-to-walk paths follow on both sides, and the surrounding nature is rustically beautiful!
2
0
The Rethmoorsee is a quarry pond that forms the nature reserve of the same name in the Lower Saxony town of Winsen (Luhe) in the Harburg district. The nature reserve with the mark NSG LÜ 244 is 90 hectares in size. It borders in the south on the nature reserve "Hohes Holz with Ketzheide and water bodies". The area has been under nature protection since July 2, 1998. The district of Harburg is the responsible lower nature conservation authority. (Source: Wikipedia)
1
1
A very picturesque lake, beautifully situated. Can only be explored on foot.
0
0
An inconspicuous access leads from the bike path to the lake. It's worth it - you can see a lot of birds here.
0
0
If it has rained in the past few days, waterproof shoes are highly recommended.
1
1
Great location, the view over the lake is very good. Unfortunately, the shelter is getting a bit old.
5
0
The nature reserve "Rethmoorsee" should serve the natural development of a lake created by sand extraction. The aim is the largely uninfluenced development of favorable living conditions for characteristic animal and plant species, of habitats of still waters and their peripheral zones (including shallow and deep water zones poor in nutrients) as well as of temporary still waters, reed beds, rushes and sedges, open sand and gravel areas and near-natural woods . The observation stand on the western edge of the lake provides a good overview. https://www.nlwkn.niedersachsen.de/naturschutz/schutzgebiet/die_einzelnen_naturschutzgebiet/-42955.html
2
0
Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee is a haven for diverse wildlife. Birdwatchers can spot species like the red-backed shrike, whinchat, reed bunting, great reed warbler, Eurasian penduline tit, and golden oriole in the reed zones and woodlands. Water birds such as great crested grebes, mallards, Eurasian wigeons, and tufted ducks are also present on the lake. The area is also home to rare grasshopper species and butterflies like the chalkhill blue butterfly. Additionally, you might see Belted Galloways grazing in the northern and western grasslands, which help maintain the landscape.
The central feature is the 60-hectare Rethmoorsee Lake, up to 12 meters deep, formed from a former gravel pit. The reserve boasts diverse habitats including grasslands, dry grasslands, reed beds, sedge and rush areas, and natural woods of willows, oaks, and alders. These varied landscapes support a unique ecosystem.
Yes, designated paths along the lake's shore and observation stations are available for visitors. There is also a covered viewpoint on the western edge of the lake, offering an excellent overview for nature observation. One popular spot is the View of Rethmoorsee, which includes a hut for bird watching.
The area offers various hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging. You can find rustic paths like the Path Between Pasture and Rethmoorsee, which runs between a pasture fence and a ditch. For a more adventurous experience, the Overgrown Trail Along the Canal, Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee offers a unique natural experience, though it can be challenging due to overgrown sections. Many routes also pass through the neighboring 'Hohes Holz mit Ketzheide und Gewässern' nature reserve. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee guide.
Yes, beyond hiking, the area around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee is suitable for other outdoor activities. You can find various routes for road cycling and running. For detailed routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee guide and the Running Trails around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee guide.
The terrain around Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee varies. While many paths are easy to walk, some sections, especially after rain, can be muddy. For instance, the Path Between Pasture and Rethmoorsee can be very muddy, making waterproof shoes highly recommended. Some trails, like the Overgrown Trail Along the Canal, can be challenging due to dense vegetation.
Yes, Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee can be suitable for families, especially those interested in nature observation and gentle walks. The View of Rethmoorsee is considered family-friendly, offering a nice spot for observation. However, visitors should be aware that some trails can be muddy or overgrown, and activities like swimming or water sports are not permitted.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in the nature reserve. However, to protect the sensitive ecosystem and wildlife, visitors are requested to keep dogs on a leash at all times and stay on the marked paths.
The reserve offers different experiences throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for birdwatching and observing the diverse flora and insect life. Autumn provides beautiful natural colors. While winter walks are possible, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions on some trails. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.
As a nature reserve, conservation is paramount. Visitors must stay on marked paths to protect the sensitive ecosystem. Dogs must be kept on a leash. Activities such as swimming, water sports, and camping are strictly not permitted to ensure the preservation of its natural state. Also, please do not feed the Belted Galloways.
Naturschutzgebiet Rethmoorsee is primarily a natural conservation area, and there are no significant historical or cultural sites within its boundaries. Its origin as a gravel pit for highway construction in the 1980s is a historical aspect of its formation rather than a cultural attraction.
Visitors particularly appreciate the expansive views of the lake from spots like the View of Rethmoorsee, and the opportunity for bird watching. The rustic and natural beauty of the trails, even the challenging and overgrown ones, is also highly valued for offering a unique outdoor experience. The peaceful atmosphere and diverse natural features are frequently highlighted.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: