The best cycling routes around Lankau
4.5
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20,265
riders
876
rides
Touring cycling routes around Lankau are characterized by a landscape of canals, lakes, and forested areas. The region features the Elbe-Lübeck Canal, offering flat and scenic paths suitable for cycling. Elevation changes are generally gentle, with most routes involving minimal climbing. This terrain provides accessible cycling experiences for various skill levels, often passing through the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park and near Schaalsee.
Best touring cycling routes around Lankau
- The most popular touring cycling route is Elbe-Lübeck Canal Path – Elbe–Lübeck…
Last updated: October 25, 2026
4.4
(28)
76
riders
20.0km
01:13
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.4
(5)
29
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(4)
18
riders
9.69km
00:33
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(5)
67
riders
48.2km
03:01
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
The Pirschbachtal is a valley floor, a former meltwater tongue from the Third Ice Age with a connection to the Stecknitztal – today the Elbe-Lübeck Canal – and the Einhäuser-Fredeburger-Trockental to the Ratzeburger See. The length of the valley floor is approx. 1.7 km and the greatest width is approx. 0.65 km. The 345-hectare area in front of the gates of Mölln is today once again a habitat for rare plants and animals. More than 20 years ago, the teacher Ingeborg Dittmer from Mölln had the idea of shaping the area around the Pirschbach into a biotope and striving for renaturation. Today, something unique has been created in Schleswig-Holstein. With the goal of developing back into a diverse habitat, some development measures were necessary. Properties were acquired to create a contiguous area. Hiking trails were newly created. Water bodies were renatured: The Pirschbach, which gives the area its name, was returned to its natural dynamics and proximity to nature through extensive construction measures. Landscape maintenance: A large-scale pasture landscape was established. Grazing: The Pirschbachtal is today characterized by open grassland with tall herb communities, species-rich wet meadows, spring areas, and small alder swamp forests. To maintain this structure, a grazing concept was developed. Grazing on the large area prevents re-forestation and forms the basis for greater species diversity. Tree frogs, numerous butterfly species, storks, and cranes use the meadows and offer favorable living conditions. The open valley is framed by healthy deciduous mixed forests. Natural deciduous forests with the main tree species, the European beech, grow on the up to 30-meter-high slope edges. Particularly characteristic are the old, gnarled oaks and beeches, which benefit from the light from the open surroundings. Deadwood forms a basis for species diversity in the forest and serves for many years as a life elixir for fungi, mosses, and wood-dwelling insects, birds, and bats. https://www.moelln-tourismus.de/poi/pirschbachtal
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Mighty, old willow! A real eye-catcher.
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Also a beautiful but also important place
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It's not the prettiest section; the trees are too tall for me. If you drive further north, from Mölln onward, it gets more beautiful.
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Junge offers a nice location for breakfast in Ratzeburg with a good selection.
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Closes at 4pm on Saturdays!
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You can travel along the canal from Lauenburg to Lübeck. You'll also pass various locks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Lankau?
The touring cycling routes around Lankau are characterized by a landscape of canals, lakes, and forested areas. You'll primarily find flat and scenic paths, especially along the historic Elbe-Lübeck Canal. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making for accessible cycling experiences across various skill levels.
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lankau?
There are over 940 touring cycling routes available around Lankau on komoot. This includes a wide variety of options, with more than 560 easy routes, 290 moderate routes, and over 80 more challenging trails.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Lankau?
Yes, Lankau offers many easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the View of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal – Elbe–Lübeck Canal at Mölln loop from Neu Lankau, an easy 9.8-mile (15.7 km) path that provides scenic views of the canal and passes through the area near Mölln.
Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For experienced cyclists looking for a longer ride, the Elbe-Lübeck Canal Path – Elbe–Lübeck Canal Bridge loop from Panten is a moderate 31.1-mile (50.1 km) trail. This route follows the historic canal path, offering consistent surfaces and a good distance for touring cyclists.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Lankau?
Many routes in Lankau are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of Ziegelsee – Elbe–Lübeck Canal at Mölln loop from Panten is an 8.9-mile (14.3 km) circular trail offering views of Ziegelsee and the Elbe-Lübeck Canal.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while cycling around Lankau?
While cycling around Lankau, you can explore several natural features and landmarks. Highlights include the expansive Ratzeburg Lake and the charming Ratzeburg — Island Town. You might also encounter the peaceful Schmalsee or the historic Farchau Mill.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or accommodation along the routes?
Yes, there are various spots for breaks and even overnight stays. You can find shelters like the Shelter by the Hellbach or the Observation Hut at Hellbach. For more substantial accommodation, consider places like the Guesthouse Seeschlösschen Mölln.
What do other cyclists say about the touring routes in Lankau?
The touring cycling routes in Lankau are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 5,900 reviews. More than 25,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic canal paths and tranquil forested sections.
Are there any routes that offer a mix of forest and water views?
Absolutely. The region's landscape is defined by its canals, lakes, and forests. A route like the Scenic Forest Cycle Path – Elefantenbrücke Mölln loop from Fredeburg offers a lovely combination of forested sections and views of waterways, providing a diverse cycling experience.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes in Lankau?
The duration of routes varies significantly based on distance and your pace. Shorter, easy routes like the View of Ziegelsee – Elbe–Lübeck Canal at Mölln loop from Panten can be completed in under an hour, while longer, moderate routes such as the Elbe-Lübeck Canal Path – View of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal loop from Niendorf bei Berkenthin (18.4 miles / 29.6 km) might take around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours.
Are there specific routes that highlight the Elbe-Lübeck Canal?
Many routes in Lankau feature the Elbe-Lübeck Canal prominently. The Elbe-Lübeck Canal Path – Elbe–Lübeck Canal Bridge loop from Panten is a prime example, offering an extended ride directly along the canal's historic path, known for its consistent surfaces and scenic views.
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