Natural monuments around Dechow are characterized by a serene natural landscape of rolling hills, green forests, meadows, and small lakes within Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Germany. The region is closely linked to the UNESCO Biosphere Park Schaalsee, known for its diverse ecosystems and commitment to preserving natural heritage. This area offers a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Its appeal lies in its picturesque environment and connection to broader protected areas, making it a valuable destination…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
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One of several observation towers on the lakes of the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. From here you have a wonderful view of the lake and the surrounding area.
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The access is a bit hidden and goes across the farmyard, but the view is worth it.
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Pure nature! Idyllically located. We passed the lake on our hike to Lake Salem.
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Here the Wagenitz flows into Lake Ratzeburg. From here you can also take a boat across Lake Ratzeburg, Henry the Strong or rent a small boat or canoe.
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The Wakenitz is the natural outflow of Lake Ratzeburg. It leaves the lake at the northernmost point near Rothenhusen and runs in a north-northwesterly direction to the city of Lübeck. The Wakenitz, a right tributary of the Trave, is about 14.9 km long. Until the construction of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal (1896–1900), the Wakenitz flowed around the city hill of Lübeck and flowed into the Trave south of the city. After the canal was built, the Wakenitz was blocked off by a dam (Falkendamm) and drained via the culvert into the Krähenteich/Mühlenteich, among other places. The Wakenitz forms the border between the federal states of Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania over long stretches. Due to its wildness, which was also caused and supported by its remote location on the former inner-German border until 1989, the river is also called the "Amazon of the North". Source: Wikipedia
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You can take a nice break at the boat rental.
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Here you become a cross-border commuter from Schleswig-Holstein to Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Or vice versa.
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Good view of the lake and the shore areas. Next door is a nice beer garden (courtyard cafe)
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The Dechow region, closely linked to the UNESCO Biosphere Park Schaalsee, features a serene landscape of rolling hills, green forests, meadows, and small lakes. You'll find diverse natural features such as tranquil lakes like Lake Garrensee, significant rivers like the Mouth of the Wakenitz at Lake Ratzeburg, and various viewpoints offering panoramic vistas.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The Observation Tower at Mechower Lake provides an all-round view of the landscape and the lake, often frequented by cormorants. Another great spot is the Schaalseehof Observation Tower, offering magnificent views of the Schaalsee lake and its surroundings.
The region offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy running on trails around Dechow, with options like the 'View of the Plötscher See – View of the Garrensee loop'. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes such as the 'Dorotheenhofer Weg – Ratzeburg Market Square loop', and gravel biking options like the 'View of Ratzeburg Cathedral – Drägerweg Along the Wakenitz loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides for Running Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Gravel Biking around Dechow.
Many natural monuments and areas around Dechow are suitable for families. Highlights like Lake Garrensee, the Mouth of the Wakenitz at Lake Ratzeburg, and both the Observation Tower at Mechower Lake and Schaalseehof Observation Tower are categorized as family-friendly. The tranquil lakes and accessible viewpoints make for enjoyable outings with children.
Yes, many natural areas and trails around Dechow are dog-friendly. For instance, the Wakenitz Arch Bridge area is noted as dog-friendly. When exploring, always ensure your dog is leashed and that you adhere to local regulations, especially in protected areas like the Schaalsee Biosphere Park, to protect wildlife.
The natural monuments around Dechow are beautiful year-round. Spring brings blooming flora and active wildlife, while summer offers pleasant weather for hiking and lake activities. Autumn showcases vibrant foliage, and even winter can be serene for quiet walks, especially if you're prepared for colder conditions. The UNESCO Biosphere Park Schaalsee is particularly known for its diverse ecosystems, making it interesting in any season.
Dechow is closely linked to the UNESCO Biosphere Park Schaalsee, known for its diverse ecosystems and commitment to preserving natural heritage. Another unique biotope is highlighted by the Moor & Koppel Route, characterized by traditional structural elements like embankments and wet grassland, vital for rare animals and plants. The Röggeliner Lake and Borgmoor also showcase significant biodiversity and ecological preservation efforts.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquil settings and opportunities for nature observation. For example, Lake Garrensee is praised for its wonderful nature and suitability for bird watching. The various observation towers, such as the one at Mechower Lake, are loved for their great all-round views and chances to spot waterfowl and cormorants.
While the focus is on natural beauty, some sites have historical connections. The area around the Wakenitz Arch Bridge at Rothenhusen was a medieval customs post fortified by Lübeck in 1595, marking where the Wakenitz flows out of Lake Ratzeburg. The Wakenitz itself also forms a historical border between Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
Near the Schaalseehof Observation Tower, you'll find the Schaalseehof, which offers a courtyard cafe where you can enjoy coffee and cake or purchase delicious smoked fish sandwiches. The region around Dechow, being a tourism development area, also offers various accommodation options and local eateries in nearby towns and villages.
Absolutely. The Dechow region, especially within the UNESCO Biosphere Park Schaalsee, is excellent for observing local flora and fauna. Lake Garrensee is known to be good for bird watching, and the Observation Tower at Mechower Lake offers views of a marshy zone in the lake frequently used by many birds, including cormorants. The Moor & Koppel Route also highlights a biotope vital for a variety of rare animals and plants.


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