The circuit around Großer Plöner See is one of the most scenic cycling routes in Schleswig-Holstein. The largest lake in this federal state forms the heart of the Holstein Switzerland Nature Park and offers a varied route through gently rolling landscapes. The trail leads along picturesque paths by the shoreline, through idyllic villages like Bosau and Dersau, passing expansive fields and lush meadows along the way.

You can start your trip from various points: Plön, Bosau, Dersau, or Ascheberg all work equally well as starting locations. Particularly practical for families with children or in case of sudden weather changes: a ferry runs between Plön and Bosau that also carries bicycles. This allows you to flexibly shorten the route if needed.

Essential Route Information

Difficulty level: Easy to moderate, well suited for families
Elevation profile: Mostly flat with gentle hills characteristic of Holstein Switzerland
Route type: Loop with multiple possible starting points
Recommended bike: Touring bike, trekking bike, or e-bike
Good to know: The route partially overlaps with the long-distance Mönchsweg cycling route

Best Time to Visit

The lake circuit is particularly recommended during warmer months when numerous swimming spots along the route invite you to cool off. During peak season, you can combine your cycling trip with a boat cruise on Großer Plöner See and experience the region from the water as well.

Spring to autumn: Ideal conditions for the full loop
Summer: Perfect for swimming at various locations
For music lovers: St. Peter's Church in Bosau hosts many concerts during summer

Attractions Along the Route

The route connects historical landmarks, natural attractions, and cozy spots for relaxation. Here are the key highlights you can discover along the way:

Historical Landmarks

Plön Castle: The symbol of the town, towering over the lake and visible from afar. This brick castle was built during the Thirty Years' War between 1633 and 1636, receiving its white plaster in the 18th century. Today it houses the Fielmann Academy, and during regular guided tours you can view the reconstructed chapel, knight's hall, and ducal chambers.
St. Peter's Church in Bosau: This 850-year-old fieldstone church was built between 1151 and 1152 by Bishop Vicelin in late Romanesque style. As the world's smallest episcopal cathedral, it sits directly on the Mönchsweg route and offers fascinating views over Bosau Bay. The church is open daily from 8:00 to 18:00.
Dunkersche Kate: This half-timbered building from the 17th century with its thatched roof was once home and workplace to blacksmiths, linen weavers, and farmers. Today it houses rotating art exhibitions. In the garden, you'll find a covered picnic area and a historic bread oven.
Plön Railway Station: This historic station building from 1866 is considered one of the most beautiful railway stations in Germany. The historic platform canopy originates from the former imperial ducal station in the castle park, which once served the imperial family.

Nature and Swimming Spots

Prinzeninsel: A peninsula connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus just 30 meters wide, leading directly through Großer Plöner See. The Old Apple Orchard with 45 historic apple trees and a small tea house offers scenic views of the lake and castle. The Prinzenbad swimming spot at the tip of the island is a popular destination, accessible only on foot, by bicycle, or by boat.
Dersau Swimming Beach: Idyllically situated with green lawns, shady trees, and a sandy beach. The shallow water makes it particularly suitable for families with small children. A nearby jetty provides connections to the large Plön lake cruise.
Vierer See: This elongated lake east of Großer Plöner See offers a swimming beach at Bösdorf Augstfelde. It's also interesting for anglers: you can catch eels, perch, pike, zander, and other fish species here.

Access and Transportation

By Train

Plön railway station is the ideal starting point for the lake circuit. Directly in the historic station building, you'll find the Großer Plöner See Tourist Information with ticket sales, route advice, and seasonal e-bike rental. A digital information kiosk offers around-the-clock details about dining, events, and excursions.

Cycling Services at the Station

At Plön station, you have access to comprehensive cyclist services:

Bicycle garage with approximately 40 covered spaces
Several lockable bicycle boxes
Sprottenflotte bike-sharing station
Monthly and annual parking space rentals available
E-bike rental during season through the Tourist Information

By Boat

Between Plön and Bosau, you can board a ferry with your bicycle and cover part of the route by water. Connections to the large Plön lake cruise are also available from Dersau swimming beach.

Practical Considerations

The route around Großer Plöner See is family-friendly and offers numerous opportunities for rest. In Plön, Bosau, and Dersau, inviting lakeside terraces are perfect for a well-deserved break.

Tourist Information Plön: Bahnhofstraße 5, tel. +49 4522 5095-0, with a bistro serving hot drinks and snacks
Tourist Information Bosau: Church and village tours can be booked at tel. 04527 97044
Castle tours: Regular guided tours of Plön Castle including the chapel, knight's hall, and ducal chambers
Parking: At the bus station and on Bahnhofstraße in Plön, partially with electric vehicle charging stations

Final Tips

The circuit around Großer Plöner See works well as a day trip or can be spread leisurely across several stops. Take time for the historical landmarks, and in summer, definitely plan a swimming break. Combining cycling with a boat cruise makes the trip particularly varied and provides a great experience for the whole family.

If you want to explore the region further, you can continue along the long-distance Mönchsweg route, which passes by St. Peter's Church in Bosau and opens up more discoveries in Holstein Switzerland.