Best attractions and places to see around Aukrug are found within the Aukrug Nature Park, a region characterized by diverse natural landscapes including river valleys, moors, and forests. This area offers a blend of natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural insights. The landscape, shaped by the Ice Age, provides a habitat for various plant and animal species. Aukrug is suited for those seeking active, nature-oriented experiences and a glimpse into rural history.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Lübeck Trade was an important trade route in the Middle Ages that connected the cities of Lübeck and Hamburg. Several memorial stones along this route commemorate its historical importance.
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At 76.8 meters, the Boxberg is not the highest elevation in the Aukrug Nature Park, but it is one of the few moraine peaks in central Holstein that deserves the name "mountain." The Itzespitze, at 83.4 meters, is even higher than the Boxberg. Today, only a few beech trees grow on the grounds of the Boxberg recreational forest. If you want to learn more about the Aukrug Nature Park and its origins, visit: https://nationale-naturlandschaften.de/gebiete/naturpark-aukrug.
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While we can no longer imagine our landscape without the road network that cuts through everything, we may well ask ourselves at this point: When and for what purpose did all this come about? Why did people want and need to get from A to B at certain times? Peaceful trade is definitely preferable to warlike reasons.
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The rest forest begins directly after walking between the ponds. Right at the beginning there is a small place of worship where you can rest on several benches. A sign asks you to only walk (i.e. do not push or ride bicycles). If you walk along the paths there you will pass several other, but smaller places of worship. I can only warmly recommend stopping by here.
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A beautiful forest area with many idyllically located fish ponds! That invite you to relax and hike. Different animals can be observed, such as: frogs, waterfowl, white-tailed eagles, herons....
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the fish ponds have an inviting character with their mild microclimate.
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Aukrug is situated within the Aukrug Nature Park, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can explore gently rolling river landscapes, mysterious moors like the Viertshöher Moor, serene forests, and ancient hills formed during the Ice Age. Notable features include the Aukrug Fish Ponds, the Tönsheider Forest Nature Reserve with its heathland, and tranquil streams like the Bünzau and Buckener Au.
Yes, Aukrug boasts several historical and cultural sites. You can visit "Dat ole Hus" in Bünzen, a local history museum in a thatched farmhouse, or the over 450-year-old Aukrug Water Mill. Explore the Lübsche Trade – Old trade route Lübeck–Tønder, marked by memorial stones, and the Historic Kornspeicher and old farm buildings in Waldhütten. The region also features prehistoric graves and remnants of an early historical castle complex in Willenscharen.
Aukrug is ideal for active, nature-oriented holidays. The nature park offers a dense network of hiking and cycling trails. You can also enjoy horse riding, swimming at the Freibad Aukrug, golfing, or gliding from the airfield. For specific routes, consider exploring options for hiking, cycling, or gravel biking in the area.
Absolutely! Many attractions in Aukrug are suitable for families. The Tönsheider Forest Nature Reserve features an adventure trail with interactive stations. The Aukrug Fish Ponds and the Village Bay on Einfelder See are also popular spots for families to relax and explore nature. The Historic Kornspeicher and old farm buildings in Waldhütten also host a popular Christmas market during Advent, which is great for families.
For excellent views, head to the Boxberg, one of the highest elevations at 76.8 meters, offering a magnificent panorama over the Holstein Geest. The Itzespitze, at 83.4 meters, is the highest point within the nature park and provides another superb vantage point for hiking and nature observation. Additionally, two observation towers are available for birdwatching.
The Aukrug Nature Park offers a variety of hiking trails. Popular options include the Boxberg circular route and trails along the Eider river. There are also specific nature trails like the forest adventure trail and a soil educational path. For more detailed routes, you can find numerous hiking tours around Aukrug, including loops around the Aukrug Fish Ponds and the Tönsheider Forest Nature Reserve.
Yes, the area features several natural swimming spots that are ideal for day trips during warmer months. These provide refreshing opportunities to cool off and enjoy the natural surroundings.
Beyond the general landscapes, you can observe Heck cattle, resembling extinct aurochs, grazing along the Bünzau and Buckener Au rivers. The Viertshöher Moor offers a unique ecosystem, and the Tönsheider Forest Nature Reserve showcases beautiful heathland. Don't miss the unusual geological feature known as the Peissener Loch, or the ancient Mammutbaum in Barlohe and the Celtic tree circle in Gnutz.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil and idyllic nature of the region, especially around the Aukrug Fish Ponds and Fish ponds at Waldgut Waldhütten, which are described as a paradise for amphibians and a relaxing spot for hikers. The historical sites like the Historic Kornspeicher are also valued for their charm and glimpse into rural life. The well-preserved Lübsche Trade route is noted for its historical significance and value as a hiking trail.
Aukrug offers attractions year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural swimming spots, with events like the traditional Spargelfest. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the forests. During Advent, the Christmas market at Waldhütten is a popular seasonal attraction. The nature park is generally well-suited for outdoor activities in most seasons.
Yes, several nature reserves protect the diverse ecosystems of Aukrug. The Tönsheider Forest Nature Reserve is notable for its heathland and near-natural terminal moraine forests. Other significant reserves include the Reher Kratt nature reserve and the Störkathener Heide nature reserve, each offering unique natural beauty and opportunities for observation.


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