Reinfeld (Holstein): Ponds, Culture and Carp Tradition
Accommodation in Reinfeld
Ponds, carp-fishing traditions and historic cultural sites shape the character of Reinfeld (Holstein). Herrenteich covers around 60 hectares and was formed by damming the Heilsau. Reinfeld also has four smaller ponds and four Heller ponds; the Heller ponds were formerly used for carp farming. This means a large, dammed pond sits alongside smaller bodies of water with their own historical uses.
By Herrenteich and along the trails
The “Around Herrenteich” nature trail is a four-kilometre circular route with 16 stops, running directly along the edge of the “Upper Herrenteich” nature reserve. In the wider Stormarn travel region, this trail in Reinfeld offers a way to explore the waterside landscape on foot. As trail signs and access may change, check the current route before setting out.
Herrenteich has an open bathing area that is generally unguarded. Non-motorised boats and SUPs may be used without a permit, provided the town is notified. A canoe launch site is located where the Heilsau/MĂĽhlenau meets the Trave. When planning, it is worth keeping these separate conditions for swimming, boat use and canoe launching in mind.
There are also specific options for longer trips: a hiking route between Reinfeld and Reinbek has been in place since 1988. The 39-kilometre “Through Hill Country and the Trave Lowlands” cycle tour starts in Reinfeld.
Church, museums and historic sites
Matthias Claudius Church is a rendered brick building dating from 1636. The 1907 town hall and the Privileged Pharmacy are also attractions in the town centre. The parsonage, built on the walls of Matthias Claudius’ birthplace, is another of Reinfeld’s attractions.
Art and local history come together at the local history museum: it displays works by Reinfeld artists from the past 100 years and has a collection relating to the work of Matthias Claudius. It also provides information about the former Reinfeld monastery and castle. A visit to the museum thus offers an introduction to both local art and older aspects of the town’s history.
The mill museum at Claudiushof welcomes visitors by appointment. Arrange your visit in advance. This makes it easy to include a museum visit in your plans, while the church, town hall and pharmacy offer their own historic points of interest around town.
Carp season and the wider region
The carp tradition also shapes the annual calendar: the carp festival and the draining of Herrenteich mark the start of carp season. Festival dates vary from year to year, so check them before your trip. Reinfeld also sells tench, eels, pike and trout. What is available may vary.
The wider Stormarn travel region extends beyond Reinfeld. Ahrensburg Castle was completed in 1585 and has served continuously as a museum since 1955. Stormarn is in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region, between Hamburg and Lübeck. Stormarn’s regional cycling options include more than 20 circular tours as well as BahnRadWege routes along disused railway lines.
Discover more destinations: TravenbrĂĽck, LĂĽtjensee, Nienwohld, Badendorf, Reinbek, TremsbĂĽttel, Bargteheide, Trittau
Back to the regional travel overview: Stormarn.
