Best attractions and places to see around Großer Plöner Lake include natural landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences. Großer Plöner Lake is the largest and deepest lake in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, situated within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. The region is characterized by its clear waters, numerous islands, and picturesque hilly terrain. It offers diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and exploring local history.
Last updated: July 20, 2026
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In Plön and the surrounding area, there are cormorant colonies that sometimes cause damage to vegetation and fisheries. The island of Sterin in the Great Plön Lake is a well-known example of the destructive effect of cormorant droppings, which virtually destroy vegetation. There was also a cormorant colony on an island in Lake Selent, which was later abandoned and subsequently recovered.
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200 lakes close together, with Schleswig-Holstein's largest lake at its center: that's Holstein Switzerland. It's not without reason that this "lake paradise" is one of the most popular vacation regions for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, families, and those looking to slow down from the stresses of big city life. The Great Plön Lake, with its deep blue waters and pristine shoreline, entices visitors to spend relaxing holidays on, in, and around the lake. Whether paddling, sailing, fishing, swimming, diving, or golfing near the lake – the options are endless. Furthermore, the 30 square kilometer expanse of water with a depth of 58 meters invites you to enjoy relaxing lake views. And all around the lake, picturesque towns like Plön, Bosau, and Dersau boast a wealth of culture, history, and nature. It's no wonder this lake has been awarded the seal of "Schleswig-Holstein's Favorite Lake" several times in a row.
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In the west of the island is the approximately 100-meter-wide sandy beach. The gently sloping shore offers ideal bathing conditions for children. In summer, a DLRG post is manned here. But adults also experience the purest holiday atmosphere. With lush forest in the background, you have a relaxing view of the lake landscape. Small islands interrupt the calm surface of the water, in which the sun reflects when the weather is nice. Canoes, boats and stand-up paddlers move across the lake and take disturbing thoughts of everyday stress with them. This makes the island a place to switch off and recharge.
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Beach between the Princes' Island in the Great Plön Lake with a sandy beach and DLRG. At the end of the idyllic Princes' Island is the natural beach with a view of the sunset included. As a destination for a day trip or a rest stop, you should not miss the approximately 100 m wide, gently sloping sandy beach. The bathing area can only be reached on foot, by bike or by excursion boat. The bathing area is guarded by the DLRG and has a kiosk, toilet, shower, playground and in summer also a volleyball net. Parking spaces are located on the Ascheberger Chaussee (approx. 2 km to the bathing area).
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Rental of canoes, kayaks, SUP boards for individual and guided tours across the lakes and the Schwentine. The Malenter Kanucenter by Bottervogel is located just a few minutes' walk from Malenter train station, directly opposite the Dieksee promenade. Canoes (Canadians), kayaks and SUP boards as well as the necessary accessories such as paddles, life jackets and barrels for waterproof transport of smartphones and other valuables can be rented here. Groups, families and individuals can paddle across the lakes and the Schwentine either independently or - by prior arrangement - as part of a guided tour.
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Rental and sale of kayaks and Canadian canoes. Boats and accessories are also available for purchase. Boats Keusen, located in the Eutin district of Fissau, is just 130 m from the water hiking car park at the start of the Schwentine water hiking trail. Here you can not only rent kayaks and Canadian canoes, but also buy your own boats - the range includes kayaks, Canadian canoes, pedal boats, SUPs and fishing boats. For a fee, transport and collection of the rented canoes can be arranged.
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From 1-person kayaks to 10-person canoes with equipment and instructions If someone has arrived without a canoe, they don't have to miss out on the fun of paddling. The rental stations in Malente, Plön, Eutin and Bosau offer everyone the opportunity to rent a canoe or kayak including accessories and you usually also receive a short instruction.
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Boat rental near the campsite on Lake Plön offers canoe and kayak rentals and a pick-up service. The Plön canoe rental is located on the Schwentine water hiking trail and has a variety of canoes and kayaks for rent. In addition, a transport and pick-up service can be booked, which brings the boats to the starting point of the paddling tour and picks them up again at the destination. Guided canoe tours can be booked for groups of 20 people or more. In addition to canoes, sailing boats, fishing boats, rowing and pedal boats, dragon boats and stand-up paddling (SUP) boards can also be rented. The staff provide tips on paddling and help plan your paddling tour. Kanovermietung_Plön©TI GPS Tatjana Kay
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Großer Plöner Lake, the largest and deepest lake in Schleswig-Holstein, is a natural highlight itself. You can visit Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its natural environment and cormorant colonies. The lake also features over 20 islands, with areas like Prinzeninsel and the Störland Peninsula designated as nature reserves, providing crucial habitats for various bird species.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Dominating the skyline is Plön Castle (Schloss Plön), a 17th-century landmark offering guided tours. Nearby, the charming 18th-century Prinzenhaus (Prince's House) is also worth exploring. In Plön's Old Town, you'll find the historic Nikolaikirche (St. Nicholas Church), showcasing a blend of North German Brick Gothic and Fachwerk architecture.
The area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy a variety of water sports like canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake also has 15 designated bathing areas for swimming. For land-based activities, there are extensive networks of hiking and cycling paths, including the lakeside trail Plöner Strandweg. Angling is also popular, with species such as pike, perch, and zander.
For breathtaking vistas, head to the Parnass Tower (Parnaß-Turm), an historic observation tower offering spectacular panoramic views of the lake and the Holstein Switzerland landscape. Other excellent viewpoints include View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge, which is also a starting point for boat tours, and the View of the Großer Plöner See from the southern shore.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy swimming and relaxing at Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel or Prinzenbad Beach, Lake Plön. Boat tours on Großer Plöner Lake are also a great way to see the scenery and spot wildlife. The Plöner Planet Path, part of the lakeside trail, offers an educational and engaging walk for all ages.
Yes, Großer Plöner Lake is a haven for wildlife, especially birds. The numerous islands and nature reserves, such as those around the Ascheberger Warder, provide crucial breeding and moulting grounds. You might spot white-tailed eagles, goldeneyes, goosanders, greylag geese, and cormorants. Boat tours often highlight opportunities to see these species, including the majestic sea eagle.
Großer Plöner Lake is ideal for non-motorized water sports. Popular activities include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP). You can rent equipment from various stations around the lake. Swimming is also a favorite pastime, with 15 designated bathing areas available.
Yes, scenic boat tours are a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Großer Plöner Lake and its many islands. Tours typically depart from towns like Plön and Bosau, offering unique perspectives of the landscape, including views of Plön Castle and opportunities to spot various water birds.
Yes, the region offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. You can find easy walks, such as the "View of Great Plöner Lake – View of Plön Castle loop from Plön" (7.6 km), or explore longer routes. For more options, check out the dedicated guide to Easy hikes around Großer Plöner Lake.
Cycling is a popular way to explore the picturesque landscapes around Großer Plöner Lake. There are numerous routes, from easy rides like the "View of the Großer Plöner See loop from Plön" (17.1 km) to more moderate options such as the "Culinary loop of Lake Plön in Holstein Switzerland Nature Park" (41.9 km). Discover more routes in the guide for Cycling around Großer Plöner Lake.
The best time to visit Großer Plöner Lake largely depends on your preferred activities. The warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal for water sports, swimming, hiking, and cycling, when the weather is pleasant and all facilities are typically open. The natural beauty of the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park is vibrant during this period.
Yes, you can enjoy a meal or a coffee with a beautiful view of Großer Plöner Lake. Establishments like Restaurant Seeprinz in Plön offer delightful dining experiences right by the water, allowing you to soak in the scenic surroundings while you eat.


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