4.7
(4408)
16,688
hikers
115
hikes
Hiking around Zarrentin am Schaalsee offers trails through the Southern Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve, a region characterized by its extensive lake landscapes, dense forests, and unique moorlands. The area is part of the Green Belt, providing paths along former border zones that are now rich in biodiversity. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making the terrain accessible for various hiking experiences.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.7
(209)
821
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(82)
257
hikers
14.5km
04:26
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(8)
35
hikers
24.3km
06:14
100m
100m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(15)
67
hikers
1.55km
00:29
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.3
(4)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Zarrentin am Schaalsee
Germany's MV Nature Park Trail — Hike through epic natural landscapes
The National Natural Landscapes in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Hiking in the south of the Biosphere Reserve
Monastery Triangle: Ratzeburg - Rehna - Zarrentin
On the way on the Green Belt in the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve
Borderless and free on the trail of history – Iron Curtain Trail (SH)
Multi-day tours in the Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve
Cycling in the Schaalsee biosphere reserve
Mit dem Rad auf dem Elbe-Schaalsee-Rundweg
Auf dem Elbe-Schaalsee-Rundweg durch das Biosphärenreservat
There are many beautiful thatched-roof houses in the village.
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Good position
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The approximately 670 m long boardwalk offers various viewing platforms that invite you to linger. The moorland experience trail can generally be accessed from both sides. However, it is recommended to start below the Pahlhuus (Pahl House) and then return to the starting point at the end of the nature trail, around the old sports field. The entire circular trail is approximately 1.4 km long and, in my opinion, is wheelchair accessible. The moor provides a habitat for many specially adapted animals and plants. For example, the lime-loving bulrush covers a large area in the Zarrentin Moor; it is rarely seen in such large populations. The long, narrow leaves are slightly serrated at the edges and very hard due to the lime they absorb. This means that if you touch them too firmly, you can injure your fingers. The moorland was a cultivated landscape used by humans for a long time. From 1900 to 1961, lime was mined in the Zarrentin Moor and used as fertilizer or slaked lime. Until 1934, the extracted lime was burned in a lime kiln located on the southern edge of the moor. Peat, which was mined alongside the lime, was used as fuel, among other things. The rush cuttings were mown for the winter until the end of World War II and used as bedding for livestock. The waters created by lime mining are very low in nutrients and thus provide an ideal habitat for stoneworts, rare water beetles, and various dragonflies. Various amphibians, ducks, and birds such as the reed bunting, the reed warbler, and the kingfisher can be found in the reed beds along the shore. Source: https://www.schaalseestadt.de/moorlehrpfad
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The following legend surrounds the heraldic animal of the small town of Zarrentin am Schaalsee: "In the Cistercian nunnery, there once lived an abbess who came from Lake Constance, and the tasty whitefish were said to have been her favorite food there. Once, during Lent, in the solitude of Zarrentin, she was so irresistibly overcome by a craving for the long-deprived fish that she called upon the devil and demanded that he bring her some whitefish from Lake Constance. In return, she would pledge her soul to him. However, he had to be back before midnight. The enterprising master of evil agreed and immediately set off. No sooner had he disappeared than the abbess's conscience struck. In her perplexity, she called the convent of nuns together and remorsefully confessed her transgression. Then one of the nuns stood up, calmed the pious mother, climbed the tower, and set the clock forward one hour. It was now 11:00 p.m., and the devil was with his fish above Techin. Then the Zarrentin monastery clock struck twelve thunderous strokes. In his rage, the devil threw the whitefish into the Schaalsee. This is how these fish, which have made the Schaalsee so famous among gourmets, are caught there today. Source: https://schaalsee-angler.de/ausflug/geschichte-der-mar-ne
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A roughly 4 km long circular trail leads around the Kirchensee lake. From this path, you can see two lakes at once: the Schaalsee and the Kirchensee lake. It leads through an old tree-lined avenue, through a moor, and along the shores of both lakes.
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This bridge offers a beautiful view of two lakes: the Schaalsee on one side and the Kirchensee on the other. It is part of the approximately 4 km circular trail around the Kirchensee.
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Beautiful bird watching platform located directly on the Schaalsee with plenty of seating.
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There are over 115 hiking trails around Zarrentin am Schaalsee, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy strolls to more challenging long-distance paths.
The region is characterized by its extensive lake landscapes, dense forests, and unique moorlands, all within the Southern Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. Many paths follow the historic Green Belt, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.
The trails in Zarrentin am Schaalsee are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the biosphere reserve, and the well-maintained paths.
Yes, Zarrentin am Schaalsee offers over 60 easy hiking routes. A great option for a short, accessible walk is the Moorerlebnispfad – Southern Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve, which allows you to explore the unique moorland environment.
For those seeking a longer adventure, there are several moderate to difficult trails. The On the Green Belt: From Zarrentin to Dutzow on the MV Nature Park Trail is a challenging 15.1-mile (24.3 km) route that takes you through varied landscapes.
Yes, many of the trails around Zarrentin am Schaalsee are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. These are ideal for exploring different sections of the lake and forest without retracing your steps.
Many trails are suitable for families, especially the easier, flatter routes that wind through forests or along lake shores. The gentle elevation changes make them accessible for younger hikers. Look for shorter, well-marked paths for a pleasant family outing.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most hiking trails in the Zarrentin am Schaalsee region, especially within the Southern Schaalsee Biosphere Reserve. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas or near wildlife, and to respect local signage.
The region is rich in natural attractions. You can find scenic spots along the Schaalsee, and highlights like the Observation Hut at Hellbach offer opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the landscape. The diverse terrain ensures many picturesque views.
Designated parking areas are typically available near popular trailheads and visitor centers in and around Zarrentin am Schaalsee. Look for signs indicating 'Wanderparkplatz' (hiking parking) or check specific route descriptions for recommended starting points with parking facilities.
While some areas might be accessible by local bus services, public transport options can be limited for reaching all trailheads directly. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance or consider driving to a central starting point.
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful for hiking in Zarrentin am Schaalsee, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer offers warmer weather for lakeside activities, while winter can provide serene, snow-covered landscapes, though some paths might be less accessible.
While many trails lead through natural, undeveloped areas, you can find cafes and restaurants in Zarrentin am Schaalsee itself and in some of the smaller villages surrounding the Schaalsee. It's a good idea to plan your route to pass through these locations if you wish to stop for refreshments.


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