4.5
(2554)
15,817
hikers
93
hikes
Dog friendly hikes around Kleiner Bornhorster Lake are characterized by serene landscapes and diverse natural features, offering accessible trails suitable for various skill levels. The region features the picturesque Kleiner Bornhorster See, surrounded by lush greenery and part of the Oldenburg-Rasteder Geestrand Landscape Protection Area. Hikers can explore wet grasslands within the Bornhorster Huntewiesen Nature Reserve and unique moorland landscapes in the Gellener Torfmöörte, both contributing to the area's rich biodiversity. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation gain,…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
5.0
(2)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
hikers
7.27km
01:52
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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12
hikers
4.90km
01:14
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The area east of the lake consists of permanent grassland typical of (old) marshland, extends over five kilometers to the east, and is largely protected as the Bornhorster Huntewiesen (Bornhorst Hunte Meadows). To the west, just 150 meters from the lakeshore and then further beyond the motorway, the land rises to the Oldenburg Geest, so that Groß Bornhorst and Klein Bornhorst are already 12 to 15 meters above sea level. Northwest of the lake, on either side of the motorway, lie two forest areas totaling 10 hectares. In contrast to the Großer Bornhorster See, the Kleiner Bornhorster See has two (albeit small) islands. The larger island, approximately 2,000 m² in size, is located on the northern shore in a corner of the lake, while the tiny island on the southern shore is only about 100 m² in size. Both islands have dense tree cover.
3
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The Kleiner Bornhorster See is located in the low-lying marshland within the "Oldenburg-Rasteder Geestrand" nature reserve. Great crested grebes and other waterfowl breed at the Kleiner Bornhorster See. The area is particularly notable for its high density of breeding pairs of nightingales. The NABU (Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union) organizes ongoing monitoring of breeding and resting birds in the lake area.
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The Kleiner Bornhorster See (Little Bornhorst Lake) covers 20 hectares and has a circumference of approximately two kilometers. It is one of the larger lakes in the Oldenburg urban area and the surrounding area. It is almost circular in shape and measures just under 500 meters north-south, with the east and west shores up to 600 meters apart. To the north, a small peninsula juts out into the lake, forming a kind of lake angle. The lake lies 0 meters above sea level. On the west shore, there is a sandy beach approximately 150 meters long and up to 40 meters wide, as well as numerous sunbathing areas. The Kleiner Bornhorster See is an official swimming lake monitored by the DLRG (German Lifesaving Association). 400 meters south of it lies the Grosser Bornhorster See, which is more than twice as large. The A29 federal highway runs between the Kleiner Bornhorster See and Groß Bornhorst or Etzhorn, just 200 meters from the west shore. The lake owes its existence to the expressway ring around Oldenburg: the soil taken from the lake was needed to build the ramp to the Hunte high bridge as well as the embankments of the A 293 and the northern bypass.
2
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An ideal training area for runners, one lap is just over 3 km long. Great asphalt and diverse natural scenery.
4
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Great little hiking trail in the middle of the Weser march
1
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Ideal to make snack or tea time.
7
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Very beautiful Morr landscape on the outskirts of Oldenburg.
1
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There are over 90 dog-friendly hiking trails around Kleiner Bornhorster Lake, offering a wide variety of options for you and your canine companion. These routes range from easy strolls to more challenging hikes, ensuring there's something for every fitness level.
The trails around Kleiner Bornhorster Lake feature gentle terrain with virtually no elevation gain, making them suitable for all skill levels. You'll find well-maintained paths, some of which are even asphalted, winding through lush greenery, alongside the picturesque lake, and into diverse natural landscapes like moorlands and wet grasslands. This varied terrain offers a pleasant experience for both dogs and their owners.
Yes, many of the trails are easy and perfect for a relaxed outing. For example, the Ipweger Moor loop from Pferdehof Röbken is an easy hike covering about 4.9 km with minimal elevation, ideal for a leisurely walk. The region boasts 47 easy dog-friendly routes in total.
Absolutely. If you're looking for a longer adventure, consider the Großer Bornhorster See – Moor hiking trails near Oldenburg loop from Bornhorst. This moderate route spans nearly 19 km, offering a more extensive exploration of the area's diverse landscapes, including moorlands and the larger Bornhorster See.
While hiking with your dog, you'll encounter the serene Kleiner Bornhorster See itself, with its calm waters and small islands. The trails also lead through lush greenery and offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. To the east, you can explore the Bornhorster Huntewiesen Nature Reserve, known for its wet grasslands and numerous bird species. Nearby, the Gellener Torfmöörte Nature Reserve provides a unique moorland experience with informative panels about local wildlife. The entire area is part of the Oldenburg-Rasteder Geestrand Landscape Protection Area, ensuring varied and beautiful scenery.
Yes, many of the dog-friendly trails around Kleiner Bornhorster Lake are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Path Through Ipweger Moor – Moor hiking trails near Oldenburg loop from Wahnbek, a moderate 9.9 km loop that takes you through varied landscapes.
The Kleiner Bornhorster Lake area is beautiful year-round. Spring brings fresh greenery and blooming flora, while autumn offers vibrant colors. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lake itself, and even winter walks can be charming, especially if the paths are clear. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, particularly in winter.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural scenery, making it a favorite spot for walks with dogs. The accessibility and variety of trails are also frequently highlighted.
While the trails are dog-friendly, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like the Bornhorster Huntewiesen, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Please also remember to clean up after your dog to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
The Kleiner Bornhorster Lake area is generally accessible, and while specific public transport routes directly to trailheads may vary, Oldenburg has a public transport network. It's advisable to check local bus schedules to see the closest stops to your desired starting point. Parking is also available for those traveling by car.
While the immediate vicinity of the lake is primarily natural, the nearby city of Oldenburg offers various dog-friendly cafes and amenities. It's a good idea to research specific establishments in Oldenburg beforehand if you plan to visit a cafe or restaurant with your dog after your hike.


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