Lankau: Hotels, Lakes and Trails along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal

Lankau combines lakes, canal banks and extensive forests with rolling hills and traditional hedgerow landscapes. For a stay with walks, bike rides or time by the water, the main attractions are the well-developed local trail network, the two main lakes and several specifically described routes. The information on route length and terrain can help you choose between a waterside route and one with a challenging section.

Lakes, Forests and Trails in Lankau

The two main lakes are connected by a narrow watercourse. They are about 30 metres deep and are considered clear because of their lime content. One lake has a campsite and a bathing area; the other is used for fishing.

In the forests around Lankau stands the Stork Oak, about 600 years old. It has been listed as a natural monument since 1935.

The well-developed network of walking and cycling trails leads through the forests, by the lake and along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. When choosing a route, you can therefore distinguish between forest trails and waterside sections.

Routes along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal

The 38-kilometre Nature Park Tour follows the eastern bank of the Elbe-Lübeck Canal from Lankau to Anker. The 39-kilometre Ice Age Tour includes a challenging terminal moraine section around Lankau and Albsfelde. With only a one-kilometre difference in length, the two routes are similar in distance; the route character is therefore also an important factor in choosing between them: canal banks on the Nature Park Tour, a terminal moraine section on the Ice Age Tour.

The Old Salt Road cycle route also runs along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. It has only gentle climbs and is separated from road traffic. When planning your ride, you can therefore consider gradients and traffic arrangements as well as route length.

Camping at Lake Lankau

Campingplatz Schmidt at Lake Lankau welcomes short-stay guests with their own caravan, motorhome or tent. The site is right by the lake and at the edge of the forest; the Elbe-Lübeck Canal is nearby and is suitable for walks and bike rides. Visitor numbers and booking arrangements may change. If you plan to stay at the campsite, it is best to check capacity and the booking process in advance.

The wider destination of the Duchy of Lauenburg

The natural landscape of the wider destination of the Duchy of Lauenburg extends beyond Lankau: 26 percent of the district is forest, and it includes 48 lakes. Cyclists can enjoy 1,000 kilometres of signposted cycle paths, four long-distance cycling routes and 13 themed circular routes. Four additional cycle tours are signposted in the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park. The nature park also offers guided excursions with experts exploring local wildlife, plant life and the district’s cultural history; check the current programme for individual dates. The long-distance hiking trails E1, E6 and E9 run from north to south through the Duchy of Lauenburg via Ratzeburg, Mölln and Lauenburg.

Discover more destinations: Schönberg, Salem, Breitenfelde, Lehmrade, Berkenthin, Hohenhorn, Römnitz, Lauenburg/Elbe

Back to the overview of the wider destination: Duchy of Lauenburg.