Achterwehr: Water, Nature and Art

Water, protected landscapes and cultural activities shape the range of things to do on a trip to Achterwehr. If you are looking for a hotel for your stay, you can first consider whether swimming, paddling, cycling, hiking or a visit to the GAK will shape your plans. Conditions vary: access to the lake is subject to nature conservation rules, the bathing area is seasonal, and the gallery hosts changing exhibitions.

Water in Achterwehr: Paddling and Swimming

Achterwehr has the only public launch site for watercraft used for paddling in the Westensee area. Access to the lake is subject to nature conservation rules; a valid RSVW permit is required in certain cases. Since the rules for water activities may change, check the current requirements before setting out.

Achterwehr has a public bathing area on Lake Ahrensee. It has a small sandy beach and a sunbathing lawn; swimming and relaxing are intended as summer activities. Check the condition of the bathing area before your visit. The two water-based plans therefore differ: paddling centers on lake access and regulations, while Lake Ahrensee offers a seasonal bathing area.

Landscape in Westensee Nature Park

Large parts of the municipality of Achterwehr lie within landscape or nature conservation areas and are part of Westensee Nature Park. Lake Ahrensee lies within the Ahrensee Nature Reserve. Its protected status sets the framework for visits to the landscape; individual excursions through the nature park should be considered as separate planning options.

Cycling Routes and Hiking Trails

Four themed cycling routes run through Westensee Nature Park. Guided cycling tours for groups visit viewpoints and attractions. If you are considering one of these tours, check its availability for your travel dates in advance. You should also check the route and signage before setting off. This lets you choose between a self-planned route and a guided group tour based on the options actually available.

The Eiderring Canal is included in Cycling Route 4 of Westensee Nature Park and Hiking Map Route 1. Canoe and kayak trips on the canal can take you as far as the Kiel Canal or Lake Westensee.

The approximately 35-kilometer-long nature park hiking trail passes through Quarnbek, Achterwehr, Felde and Westensee. Its approximate total length makes it a hiking option that spans several towns. Plan it as a longer hike and check the trail markers and route conditions before setting out.

Art in Achterwehr

GAK – Gallery for Contemporary Art is a cultural meeting place for artists and visitors interested in art. Its changing exhibitions are held in Achterwehr’s former elementary school. The program for your chosen date is relevant when planning a visit; check in advance which exhibition will be on then. A visit to the gallery adds a distinct cultural focus to the outdoor activities.

Discover more destinations: Bendorf, Dörphof, Lütjenwestedt, Schönhagen, Flintbek, Westerrönfeld, Brekendorf, Winnemark.

Go to the main travel overview: Rendsburg-Eckernförde.