Rantzau: Nature, Hiking Trails and History

Rantzau is located in the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. Those planning a stay here can shape it around nature and local history: the municipality has numerous hiking trails, and cycling is another way to experience the natural surroundings. Rantzau Castle and the old Rantzau paper mill add further points of interest. The Baltic Sea, including Hohwacht Bay, is also nearby, broadening the regional appeal for those interested in swimming and beaches.

Hiking and Cycling in Rantzau

The numerous hiking trails within the municipality provide a practical starting point for outings on foot. Cycling complements them as another way to experience Rantzau’s natural surroundings. When planning your stay, you can think of these activities as different ways to experience it: focusing on hikes or on getting around by bike.

Castle History and Getting Your Bearings

Rantzau Castle was built by Heinrich Rantzau in 1592, giving the town a specific historical connection. The old Rantzau paper mill is located on the B 430 in the direction of Lütjenburg. Together, they offer two distinct points of reference: the castle connects Rantzau with its architectural history, while the paper mill offers a landmark along the road towards Lütjenburg.

The Regional Connection to the Baltic Sea

The Baltic Sea, including Hohwacht Bay, is close to Rantzau. For travellers who would like to include swimming and beach time in their plans, it is a regional addition to the local hiking and cycling opportunities. This lets you consider local nature experiences and an interest in the coast as different focuses for a trip.

Plön in the Wider Regional Context

The wider destination of Plön opens up a view of Plön District. It lies between the Baltic Sea and Holstein Switzerland and has around 50 kilometres of Baltic coastline. The district includes around 80 lakes, among them Lake Großer Plöner See, covering 29 km², and Lake Selenter See, covering 22 km². Comparing their sizes gives a sense of the different dimensions of two of the district’s notable lakes.

Along the Baltic coast of Plön District, swimming opportunities extend from Mönkeberg to Sehlendorfer Strand. Sailing, surfing, diving, boat excursions, offshore sailing trips, fishing-boat trips and surf fishing are also possible there. Inland waters offer other perspectives: in Plön District, the Schwentine Water Trail can be explored by canoe; sailboats and excursion boats also travel on the lakes.

Large parts of Plön District are within the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park. The nature park covers 75,000 hectares and offers opportunities to experience nature and spot rare animals. The district’s gently rolling landscape is suitable for cycling and hiking tours. There is also a signposted 850-kilometre cycling network and developed Nordic walking trails. As routes may change, it is worth checking the latest route information before choosing a specific tour.

Plön Castle, which stands above the lake of the same name and is considered a landmark of the district, offers another cultural highlight. Two audio guide tours take visitors through Plön’s old town and the castle grounds; they are free to use on a smartphone and each takes around 20 minutes. Check availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Dörnick, Dersau, Lebrade, Rathjensdorf, Bosau, Ascheberg, Wittmoldt, Bösdorf.

For the wider travel overview: Lake Großer Plöner See.