Lakes around Großbarkau are primarily found in the surrounding region of Schleswig-Holstein, particularly within the "Holsteinische Schweiz" area. This region features gently hilly terrain, forests, and meadows, providing a natural setting for various water bodies. The Kührener Teich, a shallow lake within a nature reserve, is a prominent natural attraction near Großbarkau. Other easily reachable options for recreation include Bothkamper See and Wellsee, offering opportunities for spending time by the water.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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The 79-hectare "Kührener Teich and Surroundings" nature reserve, designated in 1994, lies directly south of the 207-hectare "Peninsulas and Bays in Lake Lanker" nature reserve, separated by the railway embankment. This protection safeguards two nationally important breeding, resting, and feeding areas for endangered and rare bird species, as well as for the rare fire-bellied toad. The core of the nature reserve is the 40-hectare fish pond, which is on average only half a meter deep and drains into Lake Lanker via a dam on the northern edge. North of the path, which runs along a narrow ridge, a species-rich, wet lowland area extends to the railway embankment. The natural water balance has been restored through damming. Large bodies of water occasionally extend here. The area is part of the European ecological network "Natura 2000" (protected habitat area and bird sanctuary). Pond management
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The Kirchbarkau - Preetz - Lütjenburg (KPL) narrow-gauge railway, founded in 1908, connected rural towns in the region from 1910 onwards over a distance of 41.1 kilometres with 23 stops and was used primarily for freight transport, for example for agricultural products. Despite good infrastructure and regular transport, it was not economically viable, so passenger transport was initially discontinued and then all operations were discontinued in 1938. The line was dismantled, but relics such as the Schwentine Bridge remind us of this short but significant era in regional transport history.
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Go into the NABU house, close the door and watch the birds 😉.
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Just watch out for the edge when going up and down
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Hey, the bridge is pretty, but make the effort to explore the moderately difficult route including the Schwentine and the western mountain landscape. It's worth it. In small groups or in pairs. Really.
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The beautiful bridge should be torn down. A citizens' initiative saved the bridge for pedestrians and bicycles. Now it is freshly painted and maintained by citizens every second year.
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Here we were able to observe the sea eagle 🦅
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The region around Großbarkau, particularly within the "Holsteinische Schweiz" area, features a variety of water bodies. You'll find shallow lakes, protected nature reserve lakes, and recreational lakes. These range from significant ecological sites like the Kührener Teich Nature Reserve to more accessible spots for leisure.
The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve is nationally important for birdwatching. It's a breeding, resting, and feeding ground for numerous endangered and rare bird species, including impressive sea eagles and red-necked grebes. You might also spot marsh harriers, red kites, and hobby falcons, along with the rare fire-bellied toad. Birdwatching hides and observation points are available.
Yes, you can explore historical landmarks such as the White Bridge over the Rosensee, which is the oldest concrete arch bridge in Schleswig-Holstein, built in 1907. Another significant site is the Sieversdorf Bridge, a relic of the former Kirchbarkau-Preetz-Lütjenburg narrow-gauge railway, marking an important era in regional transport history.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, gravel biking, and road cycling. For hiking, consider routes like the 'Lake Forest Path – View of Bothkamper See loop'. Gravel biking options include the 'Sieversdorf Bridge – Raisdorf Toad Ponds loop'. For road cycling, routes like 'Eidermühle Brügge – Smooth asphalt road loop' are popular. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Hiking around Großbarkau, Gravel biking around Großbarkau, and Road Cycling Routes around Großbarkau.
Many of the highlights around Großbarkau's lakes are considered family-friendly. The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve offers easy paths and birdwatching opportunities that can engage children. The Kührener Pond and Raisdorf Toad Ponds are also suitable for families looking for gentle walks and nature exploration.
Beyond the prominent Kührener Teich, other easily reachable options for recreation include Bothkamper See and Wellsee. These lakes are mentioned as good choices for spending relaxed hours by the water, whether for walking, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenery.
The lakes around Großbarkau are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn, when outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and birdwatching are most pleasant. Spring and autumn offer particularly good opportunities for birdwatching at the Kührener Teich Nature Reserve due to migration patterns.
Yes, there are circular walking routes available. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Lake Forest Path – View of Bothkamper See loop from Kirchbarkau' which offers a moderate hiking experience. These routes allow you to explore the lakeside scenery and surrounding natural areas. More hiking options can be found in the Hiking around Großbarkau guide.
While the Kührener Teich Nature Reserve is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, its focus on conservation and observation points allows for a peaceful experience. For general recreation, Bothkamper See and Wellsee are also good options that provide opportunities for relaxed hours by the water, often offering a quieter atmosphere than more heavily trafficked areas.
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. The Kührener Teich Nature Reserve is often highlighted for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Many also enjoy the well-maintained paths and the chance to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.
At the Kührener Teich Nature Reserve, you'll find birdwatching hides and observation points designed to enhance your wildlife viewing experience. For general recreation at other lakes like Bothkamper See and Wellsee, you can expect opportunities for walking and cycling, though specific facilities like cafes or restrooms might be found in nearby towns rather than directly at the lakeside.


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