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Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

Top 6 Natural Monuments around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

Best natural monuments around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor are situated within a significant natural area, designated as an FFH area and nature reserve. This region encompasses the Schwartau valley and the Curauer Moor, characterized by diverse landscapes including wet grasslands, beech forests, and deeply incised stream gorges. The area is notable for its rich biodiversity, supporting rare species and featuring unique habitats like calcareous springs and terminal moraines. Visitors can experience untouched nature, observe wildlife, and explore numerous trails suitable for hiking.

Best natural monuments around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

  • The most popular natural monuments is Schwartau Valley and Curau Moor Natural Forest, a forest that features many old trees, some of which have fallen over or collapsed, contributing to its original appearance. This area is home to many birds, including nuthatches and woodpeckers.
  • Another must-see spot is Wilhelmsquelle, a natural monument. This source is mentioned in Thomas Mann's novel "The Buddenbrooks" and provides a pleasant spot for a break.
  • Visitors also love Curauer Moor Nature Reserve, an other natural area. This deeply incised moor is part of the European protected area network "Natura 2000" due to its wealth of sources and structurally rich bog habitats.
  • Schwartautal und Curauer Moor is known for its diverse natural monuments, including extensive river valleys, unique moors, and ancient forest complexes. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from calcareous springs to areas where water buffalo graze.
  • The natural monuments around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 230 upvotes and 70 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 14, 2026

Schwartau Valley and Curau Moor Natural Forest

Highlight • Forest

The direct line has some root stages to offer, which can be dropped but all can also be driven. If you want to take it a bit more leisurely, you can also turn right and left past the trees ...
From the southeast to the northwest it is already a few meters downhill, even if the "details" say otherwise!

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Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch

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The small hill is the rest of the outer bailey of the high medieval castle in the Riesebusch.

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Wilhelmsquelle

Highlight • Natural Monument

This source is even mentioned in the book "The Buddenbrooks" by Thomas Mann.

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Curauer Moor Nature Reserve

Highlight • Natural

The approximately 350 hectare deeply incised moor is called Curauer Moor
Basin between the localities of Böbs, Curau, Sarkwitz and Malkendorf
draws. Due to the particular wealth of sources that one has
400 meter long spring ridges have built up, flowing waters as well
structurally rich bog habitats, the lowland is part of the European
Protected area network "Natura 2000". The aim of this network is ecologically
Particularly valuable areas are the preservation of biological diversity and the
natural habitats and wild fauna and flora.


wildes-sh.de/fileadmin/PDFs/Gebiet_des_Monats/UEbersicht_Curauer_Moor.pdf

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And suddenly there is a whole herd of water buffalo and mashes the hay, which the farmer has just brought. An imposing sight, when the lead buffalo gives the "little one" to understand who has the prerogative for the first bites.

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Popular around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

Cycling around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

Road Cycling Routes around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

Running Trails around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor

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Tips from the Community

JR on Tour
February 12, 2026, Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch

Apart from the raised embankment, unfortunately not much else can be seen. A shelter offers protection and a place to rest.

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A beautiful path through untouched forest... for most of the way the trail runs above the pretty Schwartau river...

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The old trees that flanked the root sections fell victim to the saw this year – before the ravages of time could take them down. It looks a bit bleak, but it's still fun, of course. (The fat stumps could maybe be used as a drop sometime 🤔😇)

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You can also go up (at least if you avoid the biggest root steps - it's not that steep), but going down is of course much more fun!

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Wandertourist
December 24, 2024, Wilhelmsquelle

The Wilhelmsquelle is actually rather insignificant, but it is mentioned as a location in Thomas Mann's novel Buddenbrooks. This gives it a certain fame. According to the information board, the water should not be drunk, as it is only a seepage spring.

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JR56
December 16, 2024, Wilhelmsquelle

Several springs rise from the Riesebusch ridge - including the "Wilhelmsquelle" (named after Wilhelm Jensen - a friend of Emanuel Geibel), which Thomas Mann mentions in the novel Buddenbrooks. The Riesebusch and the Wilhelmsquelle were immortalized in literature by Thomas Mann in the novel Buddenbrooks (6th section) or in Ludwig Ewers' Die Väterstadt. On the excursion described there, they hike through the Riesebusch to the Wilhelmsquelle. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Riesebusch

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The castle complex is located on the Langen Hörn. The hill is surrounded on three sides by the Schwartau, so the castle never had any great fortifications. Not much is known, but it was probably owned by the bishop, who administered the diocese from Old Lübeck. The castle complex is several hundred meters long and can be walked along its entire length. The ramparts that separated the castle sections from each other are still clearly visible.

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It is a wonderful MTB area with difficulty levels from easy to challenging. It is not overcrowded and you can look down on the Schwartau from above (approx. 70m). I found that particularly attractive. In the places where the river meanders (makes bends) wonderful meadows have emerged. It looks very lovely. And from the bridges you can watch how the river is being renaturalized with stones, dead wood and the connection of old side channels. For me it is a wonderful mixture of action and relaxation! You definitely have to try it out!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What unique natural features can I expect to see in Schwartautal und Curauer Moor?

The region is characterized by diverse landscapes, including extensive wet grasslands along the Schwartau river, ancient beech forest complexes on steep slopes, and deeply incised stream gorges. You can also find unique habitats like calcareous springs and the transitional Curauer Moor Nature Reserve, which is part of the European protected area network "Natura 2000".

Are there any historical sites among the natural monuments?

Yes, the region offers a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. For example, the Wilhelmsquelle is a natural spring mentioned in Thomas Mann's novel "The Buddenbrooks." Additionally, you can explore the Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch, where remnants of a high medieval castle's outer bailey, including a moat and rampart, are still visible.

Can I see wildlife in the Schwartautal und Curauer Moor region?

Absolutely. The Schwartautal und Curauer Moor is a habitat for various rare and protected species. You might spot the spined loach and otters in the rivers, and the common freshwater mussel. The area also supports species like the great crested newt and the moor frog. Keep an eye out for water buffalo, which graze in the area and help maintain the natural landscape, particularly near Water Buffaloes in Schwartautal and Curauer Moor.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities?

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Wilhelmsquelle offers a pleasant spot for a break, and the Medieval Slavic Castle Site in Riesebusch can be an engaging historical discovery for children. Observing the Water Buffaloes in Schwartautal and Curauer Moor is also a popular and impressive sight for all ages. Many trails are easy and accessible, perfect for family walks.

What kind of hiking trails are available near these natural monuments?

The region offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy paths suitable for all fitness levels to more moderate routes. You can find trails that meander through forests, across wet grasslands, and along the Schwartau river. For specific hiking routes, you can explore options like the "Wilhelmsquelle – Wilhelm-Jensen Trail loop from Bad Schwartau" or the "Curauer Stream and Moor – View of Curauer Moor loop from Curau." More details on hiking routes can be found in the Hiking around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor guide.

Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners?

Yes, the Schwartautal und Curauer Moor area has numerous easy walking trails. For instance, the "View of Curauer Moor – Curau Church loop from Curau" and the "Wilhelmsquelle loop from Bad Schwartau" are both rated as easy. These paths provide a gentle way to experience the natural beauty of the region. You can find more easy routes in the Hiking around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor guide.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments?

The Schwartautal und Curauer Moor is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly recommended. Spring offers vibrant flora and active wildlife, while autumn showcases stunning foliage. During winter, some paths might be muddy, but the landscape retains its charm. For wildlife spotting, spring and early summer are ideal.

Are permits required to visit the nature reserve or FFH area?

No, permits are generally not required for hiking or visiting the designated FFH (Fauna-Flora-Habitat) area and nature reserve. However, visitors are expected to respect the natural environment, stay on marked paths, and follow general nature conservation rules to protect the sensitive ecosystems and wildlife.

What other outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

Beyond hiking, the region is excellent for other outdoor pursuits. You can find various running trails, such as the "Riesebusch Forest loop from Bad Schwartau," which offers a moderate challenge. Cycling is also popular, with routes like the "Lübeck Salt Warehouses – View of Lübeck's Old Town loop from Bad Schwartau." Explore more options in the Running Trails around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor and Cycling around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor guides.

Where can I find viewpoints to appreciate the landscape?

There are several viewpoints offering scenic vistas of the region. The "Blick auf das Curauer Moor" provides a great perspective of the moorland. Additionally, areas within the Curauer Moor Nature Reserve and along the Schwartau river offer elevated spots or clearings for panoramic views of the diverse landscapes, including forests and wet grasslands.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Schwartautal und Curauer Moor?

Visitors frequently appreciate the untouched nature and the opportunity to observe diverse wildlife, including water buffalo. The Schwartau Valley and Curau Moor Natural Forest is praised for its original appearance with old trees and abundant birdlife. The historical connection of the Wilhelmsquelle to literature also adds a unique charm, making it a popular spot for a break.

Are there any specific natural monuments known for their ancient forests?

Yes, the Schwartau Valley and Curau Moor Natural Forest is particularly noted for its ancient trees. Many old trees, some of which have fallen or collapsed, contribute to its very original and wild appearance. This natural forest is a haven for birds like nuthatches and woodpeckers, thriving in the undisturbed environment.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Schwartautal und Curauer Moor:

ScharbeutzSchönwalde am BungsbergSierksdorfRatekauAltenkrempeTimmendorfer StrandSüselFehmarnLensahnKasseedorfOldenburg in HolsteinSchashagenHolstein SwitzerlandMalenteEutinBad SchwartauWangelsNeustadt in HolsteinGremersdorfBosauHeiligenhafenStockelsdorfGroßenbrodeGrömitzBeschendorfAhrensbökGöhlManhagenDamlosRiepsdorfKabelhorstKellenhusenGrubeDahmeGroßer Eutiner LakeKellerseeDiekseeRiesebusch

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