Best lakes around Bornhöveder Lake are part of the Bornhöveder Lake Chain, a system of six interconnected lakes located in the western Holsteinische Schweiz Nature Park. The Old Schwentine river flows through several of these lakes, which were shaped by the last ice age. This region features a landscape of rolling hills, woodlands, and diverse flora and fauna. The lakes offer opportunities for nature observation and various outdoor activities.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
You can also buy fish, delicious 👍
11
1
At Volker Christophersen's fish farm/owner Sönke Nagel you can buy fresh fish in their own farm shop. The farm also breeds trout and char. You can find more information here: https://www.wir-fischen.sh/karte/betrieb/fischzucht-volker-christophersen/ https://www.basses-blatt.de/newsreader-aus-dem-geschaeftsleben/soenke-nagel-uebernahm-fischerei-christophersen-taeglich-frischer-fisch.html
3
0
..... if you hike the loop around the Bornhöved lakes counter-clockwise, then this is (at the right time of year :-) ) the perfect place to cool off just before the finish ...
2
0
True, it's nice for swimming, but unfortunately it's in a shady spot. So it's probably more of a dog-bathing spot.
4
0
Like a string of pearls, more than two dozen fish ponds lie along the lake's shore. The ponds are protected from hungry herons with nets.
3
1
Private fish farmers run a fish farm here, and the fish can be purchased fresh or smoked on site.
4
1
Nice little section on the lake, perfect for swimming 🧜♂️🧜🏼♀️
3
0
Here you can buy fish directly from the operator, both live and smoked. When the weather is nice, you can eat it on the spot at a specially prepared cozy place. We were here in the fall and packed the smoked fish and enjoyed it at home the evening after the hike. At Gotthilf, a few steps further in the village past the fish ponds, you can also buy a delicious, home-brewed beer. Well then cheers and good hunger!
6
1
The Bornhöveder Lake Chain, located in the Holsteinische Schweiz Nature Park, offers a diverse landscape shaped by the last ice age. You'll find rolling hills, woodlands, and rich flora and fauna. The lakes themselves, like Bornhöveder See and Belauer See, are surrounded by forests, fields, and meadows, providing picturesque views and natural beauty.
Yes, there are excellent options for swimming. Bornhöveder See features a well-maintained bathing area on its west shore. Additionally, an excursion to the public swimming area at Schmalensee is recommended. You might also discover a Hidden Swimming Spot on the Lake, perfect for cooling off.
The region is known for its fish. You can visit Fish ponds at Dieksee where you can buy fresh or smoked fish directly from the operator. Another option is Volker Christophersen Fish Farm at Lake Bornhöved, which specializes in breeding trout and char, available for purchase from their on-site farm shop.
Absolutely. Bornhöveder See has a playground on its south bank, making it great for younger visitors. The general area around the lakes is suitable for leisurely walks and bike rides, and the public swimming areas are also popular with families.
The Bornhöveder Lake Chain offers a variety of outdoor activities. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Bornhöveder See – Rest Area at Bornhöveder See loop' or the 'View of Lake Belau – Kattholz Oak loop'. Runners can enjoy trails such as the 'Hollenbeck loop' or the 'Fish ponds at Dieksee – Schmalensee Bathing Area loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with routes like 'Kattholzeiche – Uhlenhorst bathing spot loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for cycling, running, and MTB around Bornhöveder Lake.
Yes, the region is excellent for hiking. The area around Bornhöveder See and Schmalensee offers diverse hiking routes that highlight the natural beauty. The landscape between Schmalensee and Belauer See is particularly scenic for walking. While specific named hiking trails are not detailed in the provided data, the numerous routes for cycling and running often double as pleasant walking paths.
Yes, the Bornhöveder Lake Chain is rich in wildlife. Belauer See, for instance, is known for its diverse wildlife, including sea eagles, geese, and cranes. The surrounding forests, fields, and meadows provide habitats for various animal species, making it an ideal spot for nature observation.
The Bornhöveder Lake region is enjoyable throughout the warmer months for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and cycling. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the natural beauty and observing wildlife. While specific winter activities are not detailed, the serene landscape can be appreciated year-round.
While Bornhöveder See is popular, the Bornhöveder Lake Chain includes six interconnected lakes. Belauer See, with its serene countryside and opportunities for nature observation, might offer a more tranquil experience. The region's diverse lakes provide options for those seeking quieter spots away from the main bathing areas.
The region offers various options. Near Belauer See, there are holiday accommodations available that provide direct access to the lake and amenities like saunas and outdoor seating areas. While specific cafes and restaurants are not listed, the nearby towns and villages typically offer dining choices. For fresh fish, you can visit local fish farms like Volker Christophersen Fish Farm.
Bornhöveder See is popular for its tranquil escape amidst scenic surroundings. It boasts excellent bathing water quality, a well-maintained bathing area, and a playground on its south shore. Visitors appreciate its natural beauty and the diverse hiking and cycling routes that connect to nearby attractions.
The area around the lakes is generally gentle, making it suitable for various activities without specialized equipment. While specific accessible paths are not detailed, the region's landscape of rolling hills and woodlands often includes routes that can be enjoyed by a wide range of visitors. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions for individual accessibility needs.
The Bornhöveder Lake region holds historical significance, particularly due to the nearby battlefield of Bornhöved. This adds a cultural dimension to a visit, allowing exploration of both natural beauty and historical context. The landscape itself was shaped by the last ice age, contributing to its unique character.


Still not found your perfect lake around Bornhöveder Lake? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.