4.6
(5203)
21,646
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around Giekau offers diverse landscapes within Holstein Switzerland in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The region features a blend of fields, hedgerows, and dense forests, with rolling hills and numerous lakes. Hikers can experience varied terrain, including woodlands and occasional views of the Baltic Sea. This area is part of Schleswig-Holstein's largest nature park, providing a unique natural environment.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
3.4
(92)
349
hikers
26.9km
06:52
90m
90m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
56
hikers
20.2km
05:24
230m
230m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.8
(9)
18
hikers
18.6km
05:00
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
18
hikers
11.0km
02:56
120m
120m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
15
hikers
5.47km
01:30
80m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
However this crater was formed, it is impressive and the view of the Baltic Sea is magnificent.
0
0
suitable for dogs, free-roaming cattle
0
0
The Lütjenburg motte and bailey castle near Lütjenburg in eastern Schleswig-Holstein is a free reconstruction of a medieval fortification, consisting of a motte (tower hill) and a forecourt. The complex has been under construction since 2003 as part of experimental archaeology in close cooperation with the Schleswig-Holstein State Office for Archaeology. The castle complex is an open-air museum, which, in addition to the existing buildings, also presents medieval everyday life. It is managed by a registered association.
8
0
Freshwater fish and shellfish For several years, Gunnar Reese has been raising various trout, including native brown trout, in a pond in the Kossautal nature reserve (Mühlenfeld near Lütjenburg). These only thrive in waters with excellent water quality. Low stocking densities, natural earth ponds, healthy feed, and slow growth ensure firm flesh with a rich flavor. A trout for fish gourmets.
14
1
From A like eel to trout, pike, carp, whitefish and others, to Z like zander and all in gourmet quality.
14
1
How it all began In 1738, the company's current location in Sarlhusen produced the finest handmade paper, which required exceptional water quality. Reese's great-grandfather began trout farming at the former paper mill in 1885. Hapag-Lloyd ships on the legendary Hamburg-New York line carried several hundred of the Reese family's trout in their ballast water tanks. This way, they always had fresh fish on board. Grounded but always open to new ideas, the family motto has remained to this day. Gunnar Reese runs a highly professional fish farm and fishery, the largest in Schleswig-Holstein and exemplary in the state for its fish quality. "In a time when uncontaminated food is no longer a given, we devote a lot of time and effort to producing truly healthy food," the dedicated fisherman says, describing his company philosophy. At Reese, you can find everything that makes a fish lover's heart beat faster.
12
1
The Workday At 7:20 a.m., the work meeting and allocation takes place on the farm. What needs to be done where, and who does it? Catching the fish from the ponds or lakes, loading and transporting them. Checking the ponds for oxygen and temperature and cleaning them. Slaughtering, gutting, filleting, and smoking fish. Checking the trout feeders, feeding other fish and checking if they're eating—and if they're doing well. Sales, maintaining the fishing park, and, last but not least, daily office work and documentation are all part of the work.
13
1
The Reese fishery in Bellin is located directly on Lake Selent, an ecologically valuable inland lake with 2,250 hectares of water surface almost directly adjacent to the Baltic Sea. It's no longer an insider tip for vacationers and connoisseurs of the region. Gunnar Reese manages the lake with gill nets and traps, as well as fishing gear for eels, pike, and perch. Bellin also has a retail store. Consumers can purchase fresh and smoked fish here. A portion of the fish is also marketed under the special "Ursprung" brand from TransGourmet and CITTI markets.
13
1
There are over 20 hiking trails around Giekau, offering a variety of experiences. These include 12 easy routes, 10 moderate paths, and 2 more challenging trails, ensuring options for different fitness levels.
Hiking in Giekau offers a diverse range of landscapes within Holstein Switzerland. You'll traverse expansive fields, charming hedgerows, and dense forests. The region is characterized by rolling hills and numerous beautiful lakes, with some routes even providing occasional views of the nearby Baltic Sea.
Yes, many of the trails around Giekau are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Selenter See – Pier on Lake Selent loop from Fresendorf is a popular circular route offering extensive lake views.
Several routes pass by significant landmarks. You can ascend to the Hessenstein Tower for panoramic views, as featured on the Hessenstein Tower – Panker Manor loop from Giekau. This route also takes you past the historic Panker Manor. Another trail, the Hessenstein Tower – Lütjenburg Motte-and-Bailey Castle loop from Giekau, includes a reconstructed motte-and-bailey castle.
Yes, Giekau offers 12 easy routes suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed walk. While specific family-friendly routes are not detailed here, the abundance of easy trails ensures there are plenty of options for a pleasant outing with children.
Absolutely. The region is known for its lakes and waterways. The View of Selenter See – Pier on Lake Selent loop from Fresendorf offers extensive views of Lake Selent. You can also explore areas like the Dieksee Promenade or the Sehlendorfer Binnensee Nature Reserve for scenic water experiences.
The hiking routes in Giekau are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 3,500 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the lakes and forests, and the well-maintained paths.
Yes, Giekau's trails offer glimpses into history. Besides the Panker Manor, you can find a reconstructed motte-and-bailey castle along the Hessenstein Tower – Lütjenburg Motte-and-Bailey Castle loop from Giekau. There's also an Archaeological Site loop from Giekau for those interested in ancient history.
Giekau offers beautiful hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming landscapes, summer provides lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant colors. Even in winter, the rolling hills and forests can be picturesque, though conditions may vary.
Yes, for breathtaking panoramic views, consider routes that include the Hessenstein Tower. The Hessenstein Tower – Panker Manor loop from Giekau and the Hessenstein Observation Tower – Bottomless Lake loop from Giekau both feature an ascent to the tower, providing expansive vistas over the Baltic Sea and Holstein Switzerland.
Hike durations vary significantly depending on the route and your pace. Easy trails might take a couple of hours, while longer, more challenging routes like the View of Selenter See – Pier on Lake Selent loop from Fresendorf can take around 6 hours and 50 minutes to complete.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.