Top 3 Castles around Großer Plöner Lake
Best castles around Großer Plöner Lake, a prominent lake in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This region, known as Holstein Switzerland, features a large lake and surrounding picturesque towns. The area provides opportunities for exploring historical sites and enjoying the lakeside environment.
Best castles around Großer Plöner Lake
- The most popular castles is View of Plön Castle from Prince's Isle, a viewpoint that offers a wonderful view over the water overlooking Plön, especially…
Last updated: August 7, 2026
View of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake
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Plön Castle
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The Large Woman Sitting in the Sun (Fritz During) at Plön Castle
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View of Plön
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This landmark of Plön, visible from afar from all approaches by land and …
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Plön Castle is one of the largest castles in Schleswig-Holstein and the only one preserved at an elevated location. It is located in the town of Plön in the district of the same name. The former residence of the Dukes of Schleswig-Holstein-Sonderburg-Plön was built in the 17th century during the Thirty Years' War. It has had a turbulent history, serving, among other things, as a cadet school and boarding school. Most recently owned by the state of Schleswig-Holstein, Plön Castle was sold due to the state's inability to finance necessary renovations. Since January 2002, it has belonged to the "Fielmann Academy Plön Castle" and, following extensive renovations, serves the optics and hearing aid industry as a training and qualification center. After the castle had been closed to the public for many years due to the boarding school, the new owner opened it to a limited number of visitors. See: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Pl%C3%B6n
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A beautiful place with a beautiful view
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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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Binoculars are useful here and should always be with you
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Plön Castle is a landmark, a tourist attraction, and the home of the Fielmann Academy in Plön. This landmark of Plön, visible from afar from all approaches by land and water, was built during the Thirty Years' War between 1633 and 1636. Duke Joachim Ernst of Plön had a brick castle erected on the site of the old, now-useless, fortress. The castle received its white paint in the 18th century under the Danish King Christian VIII. Around the turn of the 20th century, Plön Castle served as the educational home for the sons of Kaiser Wilhelm II and as a cadet academy for the officer corps of the Prussian army. During the Nazi era, it served as a National Political Institute of Education (NAPOLA). After the sale of Plön Castle by the state government to the non-profit Fielmann Academy in January 2002, the castle underwent extensive renovation and, following careful reconstruction in cooperation with the historic preservation authorities and with the involvement of local craftspeople, reopened three years later. Since 2005, the Fielmann Academy, a public training center for German optometry, has been training more than 6,000 opticians annually at Plön Castle. Regular guided tours offer the opportunity to visit the reconstructed chapel, the Knights' Hall, and the ducal apartments. The Knights' Hall is used for the "Castle Concerts" classical concert series.
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A beautiful view of Lake Plön and Plön
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During this time, the interior was changed significantly. From 1946 to 2001, the castle served as a boarding school before it was sold in 2002 to the owner of Fielmann AG, Prof. Dr. Günther Fielmann, who set up an optician academy there. https://www.herrenhaeuser.sh › ... Plön Castle
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most prominent historical sites around Großer Plöner Lake?
The most prominent historical site is Plön Castle, a significant Renaissance castle overlooking the lake. Additionally, Princes' Island (Prinzeninsel) offers a unique blend of natural beauty and imperial history, featuring a historic farmhouse and connections to the German imperial family.
What makes Plön Castle a unique place to visit?
Plön Castle is one of Schleswig-Holstein's largest and most historically significant castles, built in the 17th century. It has served as a ducal residence, a Danish royal summer retreat, and a military academy. Today, it houses the Fielmann Academy, but visitors can explore its impressive Renaissance architecture, grounds, and enjoy panoramic views of Großer Plöner See. Its white façade is particularly striking from the lake.
What can I do on Princes' Island (Prinzeninsel)?
Princes' Island is a car-free peninsula offering a tranquil natural experience. You can enjoy walks through its forested areas, dine at the historic 17th-century "Lower Saxon farmhouse" (Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus) which now operates as a restaurant, and even swim at the "Prinzenbad" (Princes' pool) with its sandy beach. The island has strong historical ties to the German imperial family, whose sons once learned agricultural skills and swimming here.
Are there family-friendly activities near the castles?
Yes, both Plön Castle and Princes' Island offer family-friendly experiences. At Plön Castle, families can explore the grounds and gardens. On Princes' Island, children can enjoy the natural environment, walk along the shores, and swim at the "Prinzenbad." The entire Großer Plöner See region is popular for water sports and relaxing holidays, making it ideal for families.
Can I bring my dog to the castle grounds?
Yes, Plön Castle is noted as dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the castle grounds and park with your canine companion. Princes' Island, with its natural trails, is also suitable for walks with dogs, offering a peaceful environment away from motor traffic.
What is the best time to visit the castles around Großer Plöner Lake?
The region around Großer Plöner See is particularly appealing during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when the weather is ideal for exploring the castle grounds, enjoying lake views, and engaging in outdoor activities. The area was historically a royal summer retreat, highlighting its appeal during these seasons. However, the panoramic views from Plön Castle are beautiful year-round.
Are there good viewpoints to see Plön Castle?
Absolutely! There are several excellent viewpoints. You can get a wonderful perspective of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake itself, with specific spots like the View of Plön Castle from the Great Plöner Lake. Another stunning view is available from Princes' Island, offering a picturesque sight of the white castle on the hill across the water.
What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?
The Großer Plöner See region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling tours like the "Culinary loop of Lake Plön" or "Plön Castle – Langenrade Windmill Sventana loop" which are part of the Cycling around Großer Plöner Lake guide. There are also traffic-free bike rides and MTB trails available, such as those found in the MTB Trails around Großer Plöner Lake guide. The lake itself is popular for water sports like paddling, sailing, and swimming.
Are there any historical sites other than Plön Castle that are still visible?
While Plön Castle is the most prominent preserved castle, Princes' Island features the 17th-century "Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus" (Lower Saxon farmhouse), which is a visible historical structure. Burg Bosau, a former Slavic fortification, has almost no visible remnants today, though the St. Petri Church in Bosau is a notable medieval site nearby.
Are there cafes or restaurants near Plön Castle or on Princes' Island?
Yes, on Princes' Island, the historic "Niedersächsisches Bauernhaus" operates as a restaurant, offering Holstein and Mediterranean cuisine with fresh, regional ingredients. Near Plön Castle, the town of Plön offers various cafes and dining options within walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments after exploring the castle.
Is it possible to visit the interior of Plön Castle?
While Plön Castle primarily houses the Fielmann Academy today, guided tours are often available to explore parts of its rich interior and learn about its eventful history. It's advisable to check the castle's official website for current tour schedules and availability.
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