Top 20 Lakes around Lankau
Best lakes around Lankau are found within a landscape of gentle hills, extensive forests, and picturesque lakes in the Herzogtum Lauenburg district of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. The municipality of Lankau features smaller, idyllic lakes and is surrounded by the larger bodies of water of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park. This region offers a diverse environment for outdoor activities and natural exploration. The area provides a variety of aquatic environments for recreation and nature observation.
Best lakes around Lankau
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Ratzeburg Lake
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The lake area is divided into the Great …
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View of Lake Ratzeburg and Ratzeburg Cathedral
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Ratzeburg — Island Town
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There are also many opportunities to get to the water and have a relaxing swim.
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West Shore Trail at the Great Ratzeburg Lake
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Forest trail at Lake Ratzeburg
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Tips from the Community
The town center of Ratzeburg is completely surrounded by three lakes... there is plenty of nature to discover on all sides.
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Remarkable city location on the lake with many sights and good infrastructure.
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A trip to Ratzeburg is definitely worth it. History in the old town and nature by the lake.
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Great lake that is also suitable for swimming.
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Really nice town on several lakes. Additionally possible: Trip on the Wakenitz along the former inner-German border towards Lübeck.
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The Ratzeburger See is a very beautiful and large lake. There are paths around the lake that can be used on foot or by bike. However, the path on the east side of the lake is more for experienced cyclists, as there are some fairly steep inclines here and the subsoil is also quite uneven in places. In addition, from the path on the east side you only have a view of the lake in very few places, most of the time it goes through the forest. Nevertheless, the landscape is very beautiful here. The path on the west side of the lake, on the other hand, is very easy to cycle because it is mostly flat. There are a few inclines on this side near Ratzeburg, but they are relatively easy to cycle, at least significantly better than on the other side of the lake. You can also see the lake much more often on the western side than on the eastern side of the lake. There are some jetties and beautiful beach areas.
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A lake that is worthwhile in every respect: You can swim in many places, mostly free of charge, and then tours along the shore are very varied and always in the most beautiful surroundings. The joint use of the Uferweg by cyclists and pedestrians works very well in 99 percent thanks to consideration.
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It stretches almost ten kilometers from the island town of Ratzeburg to its northern shore in Rothenhusen. And it is precisely this vastness that makes Lake Ratzeburg so special. Especially for passionate sailors. Together with the Domsee, it forms one of the most beautiful inland sailing areas. And so the white sails are simply part of it. Just like the sleek yellow rowing boats of the rowing academy, which circle the island city and are already dreaming of the next Olympic medal. Of course, the Ratzeburger See is also the address for all water fans big and small: Beautiful bathing spots invite you to jump into the cool water. Water bikes, pedal boats or electric boats await leisure captains. "Henry the Lion" transports its guests very comfortably: the excursion ship invites you to take a small cruise. And if you like, you can continue your way via the Wakenitz to Lübeck. Incidentally, when voting online on the seen.de platform, Lake Ratzeburg took first place on the popularity scale in Schleswig-Holstein! https://www.herzogtum-lauenburg.de/ratzeburger-see-5
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Lankau are particularly popular with visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy the expansive Ratzeburg Lake, known for its excellent water quality and popularity for water sports. Another favorite is Schmalsee, appreciated for its scenic beauty and surrounding hiking trails. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau also stands out for its clear water access and covered rest area.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities suitable for children near Lankau?
Yes, several lakes in the region are family-friendly. Ratzeburg Lake and Schmalsee are both categorized as family-friendly. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau offers easy access to clear water for swimming, which is great for families.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes near Lankau?
The region is characterized by a landscape of gentle hills, extensive forests, and picturesque lakes. You'll find diverse aquatic environments, including bathing and fishing lakes. The Ratzeburg Lake, for instance, is part of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, offering varied and picturesque landscapes, including viewpoints and trails through forests.
Can I go hiking around the lakes near Lankau?
Absolutely. The area offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, there are trails around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lake Lütau. You can find various hiking routes, including easy and moderate options, in the area. Explore more hiking trails around Lankau on our dedicated guide: Hiking around Lankau.
Are there any circular walks around the lakes?
Yes, the hiking trail around Schmalsee and the adjacent Lütauer See is a worthwhile circular route. Many other trails in the region also offer circular options, allowing you to experience the diverse scenery. For more options, check out the routes in our Hiking around Lankau guide.
What historical or cultural sites are located near the lakes?
The charming island city of Ratzeburg, surrounded by the Küchensee and the Großer Ratzeburger See, offers significant cultural and historical attractions. The city itself is a highlight, known for its medieval buildings and the Ratzeburg Cathedral, founded in 1154 by Henry the Lion.
What kind of outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, the lakes around Lankau are excellent for gravel biking and running. You can find various routes for these activities. For gravel biking, explore options like the 'View of the Drüsensee – Schmalsee Northeast Shore loop'. For running, consider routes such as the 'View of the Lake – Schmalsee Bridge (Mölln) loop'. More details are available in our guides: Gravel biking around Lankau and Running Trails around Lankau.
Is wild swimming permitted in the lakes around Lankau?
While the region is known for its bathing lakes, specific regulations for wild swimming can vary. The Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau offers clear water access for swimming. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local signage or official information regarding designated swimming areas to ensure safety and compliance with environmental protection rules.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Lankau?
The region is beautiful year-round, but for water-based activities like swimming and boating, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn are ideal. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Even in winter, the area can be appealing for quiet walks, though specific facilities might be limited.
What wildlife can be observed around the lakes?
As part of the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, the region is ecologically significant. The Lankauer See, for example, is a deep, nutrient-poor lake, suggesting a pristine natural environment. This makes the area appealing for nature enthusiasts interested in observing local flora and fauna in a protected habitat, though specific species are not detailed in the provided information.
Are there less crowded lakes near Lankau for a more peaceful experience?
While Schmalsee can be heavily frequented due to its proximity to Mölln, the Lankauer See itself is known for its tranquility and pristine natural environment, making it ideal for those seeking peace away from more crowded tourist spots. The broader region offers many smaller, idyllic lakes within the Herzogtum Lauenburg district that might provide a quieter experience.
Where can I find parking for visiting the lakes?
Specific parking information for each lake is not detailed, but popular spots like the Jetty and bathing area on Lake Lütau typically have facilities nearby. For the island town of Ratzeburg, which is surrounded by lakes, parking is available within the town, though it can be busy during peak season. It's generally recommended to look for designated parking areas near popular access points or trailheads.
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