Top 13 Natural Monuments around Grinau
Best natural monuments around Grinau feature a landscape shaped by waterways, historical sites, and natural reserves. The area is characterized by its lakes, such as the Herrenteich, and significant rivers like the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal. These natural features offer diverse outdoor experiences, from tranquil walks around ponds to exploring historical megalithic tombs. Grinau provides a blend of natural beauty and historical context for visitors.
Best natural monuments around Grinau
- The most popular natural monuments is Herrenteich Reinfeld, a…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal
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Herrenteich Reinfeld
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Fischhuser Bridge over the Herrenteich, Reinfeld
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Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve
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Megalithic tomb near Reinfeld
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The preserved grave bears the Sprockhoff number 286 and the …
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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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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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Great place, very nice for a walk.
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The Herrenteich in Reinfeld owes its existence to Cistercian monks who founded the Reynevelde monastery in the 12th century. They cleared the forest, created fish ponds and dammed the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff Water lily - Photo: Silke Oldorff The Herrenteich in Reinfeld, Stormarn district, owes its existence to the Cistercian monks who founded the "Reynevelde" monastery in the area of the marshy lowlands of the Heilsau in the 12th century. The Heilsau rises near today's Stockelsdorf (Ostholstein district) and flows into the Trave below Reinfeld. Count Adolf commissioned this Cistercian order in 1186 to reclaim this "place of loneliness and terror", according to contemporary witness Provost Sido from Neumünster. They cleared the forest, created small fish ponds and used the excavated material to build the dam for the Heilsau to form the Herrenteich. The monks lived in the monastery until the 16th century
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With 37 hectares, the Herrenteich is the largest of a total of five freshwater ponds in Reinfeld; with its diverse bank vegetation, it offers a home to many animal species.
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Nice walk around the pond! With lots of cozy spots.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some highly-rated natural monuments in Grinau?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Herrenteich Reinfeld, a beautiful lake with a relaxing hiking trail around its perimeter. Another popular spot is the Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal, offering scenic views from its towpath bridge. The Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve, known for its water lilies and historical significance, is also highly regarded.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Grinau?
Yes, several natural monuments in Grinau are suitable for families. The Herrenteich Reinfeld offers a pleasant walk around the lake, and the Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal provides easy paths with interesting views. The Hausgraben (School Pond) Reinfeld is also considered family-friendly, with a narrow path along its bank.
What historical or cultural sites are among Grinau's natural monuments?
Grinau's natural monuments often blend natural beauty with rich history. The Herrenteich Reinfeld and Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve have historical ties to Cistercian monks from the 12th century. You can also visit the Megalithic tomb near Reinfeld, an ancient grave complex from the Neolithic period. The Hausgraben (School Pond) Reinfeld is historically significant, having once surrounded a Renaissance castle.
What outdoor activities can I do near Grinau's natural monuments?
The area around Grinau's natural monuments offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and gravel biking. For easy hikes, explore options like the "KinderHerz Forest Forst Blisterl – Krummesser Heide loop" or the "Small Waterfall – Wooden Bridge Over Stream loop." Runners can enjoy trails such as the "1A loop from Krummesse." Gravel biking enthusiasts have routes like the "Elbe–Lübeck Canal Bridge – Bridge Over the Alte Trave loop." You can find more details on these activities in the easy hikes guide, running trails guide, and gravel biking guide for Grinau.
Are there hiking trails near these natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking trails available. For example, a relaxing hiking trail circles the Herrenteich Reinfeld, offering views of the lake, forest, and meadows. The Megalithic tomb near Reinfeld is also accessible via pleasant, narrow paths. For more options, check out the easy hikes around Grinau guide.
What natural features can I expect to see in Grinau?
Grinau is characterized by its waterways and green landscapes. You'll encounter several beautiful lakes, such as the Herrenteich Reinfeld and the Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve, often adorned with water lilies. Significant rivers like the Trave and the Elbe-Lübeck Canal are also prominent, with their confluence being a notable natural monument. Forests and meadows complete the scenic picture.
What do visitors enjoy most about Grinau's natural monuments?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and scenic beauty. Many enjoy the relaxing walks around the lakes, the beautiful views from viewpoints like the towpath bridge at the Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal, and the blend of nature with historical elements, such as the ancient megalithic tomb. The opportunity to connect with nature in a peaceful setting is a common highlight.
Are there any nature reserves to explore in Grinau?
Yes, the Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve is a notable area. It's a beautiful pond known for its water lilies and its historical use for carp farming by Cistercian monks. It offers a serene environment for nature observation.
What kind of terrain can I expect on trails near Grinau's natural monuments?
The terrain around Grinau's natural monuments is generally gentle and accessible, featuring paths around lakes, along rivers, and through forests and meadows. Many trails are considered easy, making them suitable for leisurely walks and family outings. For instance, the path around Herrenteich Reinfeld is described as wonderfully relaxing.
Can I find viewpoints to enjoy the scenery in Grinau?
Absolutely. The towpath bridge at the Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal offers elevated positions with beautiful views over the canal and river. The hiking trail around Herrenteich Reinfeld also provides great views of the lake and its surroundings.
Are there any specific natural monuments related to water in Grinau?
Grinau is rich in water-related natural monuments. Key examples include the Herrenteich Reinfeld and the Upper Herrenteich Nature Reserve, both beautiful lakes. The Confluence of the Trave and Elbe-Lübeck Canal highlights the meeting point of significant waterways. Additionally, the Hausgraben (School Pond) Reinfeld is another notable water feature with historical significance.
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