Best attractions and places to see around Dersau are centered around the Großer Plöner See within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. This region offers a serene escape with a focus on natural beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors can explore picturesque landscapes, local points of interest, and nearby historical sites. The area is characterized by its tranquil, rural charm, making it a base for active exploration of the surrounding nature.
Last updated: May 9, 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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From here you have a beautiful view of the lake
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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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I can't recommend the tour around Lake Plön. About 66% of the route is on unpaved, potholed forest paths. It's more of a hiking trail than a bike path. The route is very, very poorly signposted.
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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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Dersau is nestled on the western shore of the Großer Plöner See, the largest lake in Schleswig-Holstein, within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. You can explore its wooded banks and over 30 islands, making it one of Germany's most scenic lakes. Notable natural features include Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), known for its natural beauty and diverse birdlife, and the picturesque Ukleisee, perfect for a short hiking trip.
Yes, the region around Dersau is excellent for hiking and cycling. Numerous well-signposted trails wind through the scenic Holstein Switzerland. A long-distance hiking trail runs directly along the shore of the Großer Plöner See, forming part of a larger circular route around the lake. For more challenging routes, the "Nordic Fitnesspark Holsteinische Schweiz" offers approximately 150 kilometers of trails. You can find various routes, including gravel biking, road cycling, and MTB trails, in the area.
A significant historic landmark nearby is Plön Castle, which can be admired during lake tours or visited directly. Another site with historical significance is Prinzeninsel (Prince's Island), which was purchased by Emperor Wilhelm II in 1910 and remains owned by the House of Hohenzollern. The island's farmhouse now hosts a tourist restaurant.
Dersau offers several family-friendly options. The natural beach in Dersau, with its gently sloping sandy stretch, is ideal for children and offers amenities like a kiosk, toilets, showers, and a playground. Many highlights around the lake, such as Prinzenbad Beach, Prinzeninsel and Sterin Island (Großer Plöner See), are also categorized as family-friendly. The nearby ErlebnisWald Trappenkamp provides another adventure for families.
For panoramic vistas of the Großer Plöner See, visit the View of Großer Plöner See from the Town Bridge. This spot offers views of Plön Castle and Prinzeninsel. Additionally, the Siebenstern Picnic Shelter provides a lovely lake view, perfect for a break.
Yes, Dersau has a natural beach on the Großer Plöner See, which is perfect for swimming and relaxation. The beach features a sandy stretch and sunbathing lawns. The gently sloping sandy beach, approximately 100 meters wide, is particularly suitable for children. During summer, the beach area is guarded by the DLRG (German Life Saving Association).
The warmer months, from spring to autumn, are generally the best time to visit Dersau for outdoor activities. This period allows for comfortable hiking, cycling, and water sports on the Großer Plöner See. The beach is guarded during summer, making it ideal for swimming. The region's natural beauty is particularly vibrant during these seasons.
Yes, you can discover local specialties at Käsehof Biss. This farm produces traditional cheese from its own cows, and visitors can purchase a variety of cheeses and regional products at the farm shop. They also offer guided tours on cheese making with a tasting for groups by appointment.
The Großer Plöner See offers ample opportunities for various water sports. You can enjoy sailing, rowing, and fishing. Dersau has a small sailing harbor that welcomes guest boats. Boat tours are also popular, often including views of Plön Castle and Prinzeninsel. Rental stations in the area offer canoes, kayaks, pedal boats, and SUP boards.
Visitors to Dersau appreciate the serene escape and focus on natural beauty. The tranquil, rural charm makes it an ideal base for active exploration or simply relaxing by the lake. Many enjoy the wonderful views of Plön Castle from the lake and beaches, as well as the beautiful sunsets. The community has shared over 350 photos and given more than 2400 upvotes to the attractions.
While Dersau is a tranquil, rural village, public transport options exist to connect it with larger towns in the Holstein Switzerland region. For detailed information on bus schedules and connections, it is advisable to check local transport provider websites or consult the tourist information for the Holstein Switzerland region.
The Prinzeninsel is an idyllic island in the Großer Plöner See, known for its natural beach and beautiful views, especially at sunset. It can be reached on foot, by bike, or via excursion boat. The island's farmhouse now houses a tourist restaurant, offering a pleasant spot for a break. Remember that the island has historical significance, having been owned by the House of Hohenzollern since 1910.
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities around Dersau. You can find various MTB trails in the area, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Routes like the "View of Lake Plön – View of Plön loop from Ascheberg (Holstein)" and "Pier on Großer Plöner See – Holmweg – above the Stocksee loop from Stocksee" offer diverse terrain for mountain bikers.


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