Best lakes around Herrenteich include the historic Herrenteich in Reinfeld, an artificial pond with a rich history and diverse natural features. Originally created by Cistercian monks in the 12th century for fish farming, this lake is central to Reinfeld, known as the "Carp Town." It offers a blend of historical significance, recreational activities, and natural beauty, with a focus on preserving its unique ecosystem. The area provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and nature observation.
Last updated: August 20, 2026
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The Herrenteich Pond is located in the heart of the carp town of Reinfeld. It was artificially created in the 12th century by Cistercian monks as a reservoir for the Heilsau River for fish farming. Carp are still bred here today. A four-kilometer circular trail around the Lower Herrenteich invites you to discover this special ecosystem. 16 stations along the adventure trail offer fun and a nature experience in one, sharpening your awareness of the special features of this natural area. In summer, you can enjoy the cool water at the lido. See: https://tourismus-stormarn.de/de/naturerlebnis/herrenteich-reinfeld-5
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld is a popular tourist destination. The approximately 55-hectare body of water is divided into the upper and lower Herrenteich. The upper Herrenteich remains a recognized nature reserve. The lower Herrenteich is home to, among other things, a hiking trail and an outdoor pool in the summer. Due to melting snow, the Herrenteich flooded in early March 2010. A temporary dam erected at the time due to construction work threatened to no longer hold the water masses. A breach of the dam would have flooded the entire hinterland. The Hamburg/Lübeck railway embankment would also have been affected. See: https://www.thw-badoldesloe.de/aktuelles/aktuelle-meldungen/artikel/vor-10-jahren-hochwassereinsatz-am-herrenteich-fachgruppen-wasserschadenpumpen-verhindern-stauwe
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The 3.7 km long trail leads along the partially wooded shore of the Herrenteich lake. The east and west banks are connected by a bridge at the "Fischhuser Damm"—north of this bridge begins the "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve. See: https://reinfeld-aktiv.de/tag/reinfeld/page/6/
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It's always worth taking fish home.
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The 5th stage of the "Stormarnweg" hiking trail also leads along here. All information about the Stormarnweg can be found at the following link: www.wildganz.com/fernwanderweg/stormarnweg (as of July 26, 2024).
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Nice walk around the pond! With lots of cozy spots.
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This is the bridge at Fischhuser Damm. The name suggests that a dam must once have connected the banks of the Herrenteich pond here. In 1960, pioneers from the Eutin riot police erected the first wooden bridge, which was recently replaced by a new steel structure. The "Oberer Herrenteich" nature reserve lies to the north of the bridge.
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The fishing industry at the Herrenteich began when the Cistercian monks of the former Reinfeld monastery dammed the Heilsau to the Herrenteich in the 12th century. This was the first and largest of over 60 fish ponds that the monks created here and around Reinfeld. The dam is today's promenade. Southwest of it was the monastery, of which only part of the monastery wall still stands. The monastery was demolished in 1599 and a Renaissance palace of the Plön dukes was built in its place. The mighty monastery church initially remained standing. It was in the immediate vicinity of the Herrenteich and was completely destroyed when the dike broke in 1635. The name Herrenteich probably refers to the lords of the monastery, because unlike other fish ponds, the Herrenteich was managed directly by the monastery.
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Visitors particularly enjoy the View of Herrenteich at the Tannenbach Estuary, which offers a beautiful perspective of the lake with benches and a small covered rest hut. Another favorite is Herrenteich Reinfeld itself, known for its scenic hiking trail and cozy spots for breaks. The Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve is also highly appreciated for its natural beauty, including water lilies and historical significance.
Yes, the Herrenteich in Reinfeld offers several family-friendly options. The circular path around the Lower Herrenteich features 16 nature and fun stations. In summer, there's a public swimming area with a small beach, a playground, and a beach volleyball field. Many viewpoints, such as the View of Herrenteich at the Tannenbach Estuary and View of Lake Herrenteich, are also suitable for families.
The Herrenteich in Reinfeld has a rich history, originally created by Cistercian monks in the 12th century for fish farming, particularly carp. This historical use continues today, with the lake being drained annually in October for the city's carp festival. The area also features remnants of the former monastery and a Renaissance palace, adding to its historical charm.
The Herrenteich in Reinfeld is known for its natural diversity. The Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve is home to beautiful water lilies and a diverse bird population. The lake is predominantly surrounded by natural vegetation like beech, alder, oak, and reed, providing a varied backdrop for nature observation.
Yes, there are well-maintained trails for both hiking and cycling. A popular option is the 3.6-kilometer circular path around the Lower Herrenteich. The Herrenteich Reinfeld highlight specifically mentions a cycle way and a hiking trail with great views. For more extensive routes, you can explore various running trails or cycling routes in the broader Herrenteich region.
Yes, in summer, the Herrenteich in Reinfeld offers a public swimming area with a small beach. You can find more information about swimming at the lake via tourismus-stormarn.de.
Visitors frequently praise the wonderfully relaxing hiking trails, the abundance of nature, and the many cozy spots for breaks around the lake. The beautiful views, especially from vantage points like the Tannenbach Estuary, and the varied play of colors from the natural vegetation are also highly appreciated.
Beyond walking and cycling around the lakes, the area offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, cycling routes, and MTB trails suitable for various skill levels. The tranquil setting is also ideal for nature observation and photography.
Yes, there are several notable viewpoints and landmarks. The View of Herrenteich at the Tannenbach Estuary offers a prime spot with a rest hut. The View of Lake Herrenteich provides excellent vantage points and seating. Additionally, you can find sculptures like 'Scrat' by Peter Gatzlaff and the Matthias Claudius Monument around the lake in Reinfeld.
Yes, there is another significant Herrenteich located in the Wahnbach Valley, near Much, within the Naturpark Bergisches Land. This Herrenteich offers a tranquil natural setting, ideal for walking, jogging, and nature observation from wooden platforms. In harsh winters, it occasionally allows for ice skating.
Reinfeld is often referred to as the 'Carp Town' due to the historical and ongoing use of the Herrenteich for carp breeding. This tradition dates back to the Cistercian monks who created the lake in the 12th century for fish farming, and it continues to be a significant part of the town's identity, culminating in an annual carp festival.
Yes, after a hike or cycle, you can find cafes directly at the lake in Reinfeld. The visitor tips for Herrenteich Reinfeld specifically mention the possibility to stop at a café by the lake.


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