Averlak: Kudensee and the Kiel Canal
Accommodation in Averlak
Averlak lies next to the Kiel Canal and on a natural sand dune. Another distinctive landscape can be seen at Kudensee: the “Kudensee and Surroundings” nature reserve covers 246 hectares in Averlak and Kuden. Kudensee is considered the last remaining lake in Dithmarschen to have formed from former sea inlets. The contrasting landscapes give nature lovers and hikers a concrete starting point for planning a trip.
At Kudensee: habitat and views
The water surface of Kudensee covers about 40 hectares. The lake provides a habitat for numerous marsh and water birds; which birds are present varies with the seasons. The “Around Kudensee” route includes an observation platform. From there, the panorama stretches across Kudensee and the surrounding landscape. This lets you combine birdwatching with wide-ranging views of the natural surroundings.
Hiking routes with different focuses
“Around Kudensee” begins at a restaurant in Averlak. It is classified as an easy hike across flat terrain and is about 12.06 kilometers long. Along the way, hikers get close to large ships on the Kiel Canal. The route’s length and rating provide a clear point of reference for planning this day of hiking.
Circular Route No. 2 has a different focus: it follows a section of the Kiel Canal, passes through Kuden, and then reaches Kudensee. The two routes can be distinguished by their described features: an easy hike of about twelve kilometers with close-up views of large ships, or a route along a section of the canal through Kuden to the lake.
Getting there and choosing a location
There is roadside parking in Averlak for the route. Check the parking situation locally before setting off. Bus 2572 connects Averlak and St. Michaelisdonn via Eddelak. If you plan to travel by bus, check the current timetable before your journey.
You can also consider attractions in Dithmarschen for additional cultural and historical interests.
Dithmarschen: cultural and Stone Age history
Dithmarschen offers further topics to consider when planning a trip, extending beyond Averlak’s focus on landscapes and hiking. The Dithmarscher Landesmuseum in Meldorf takes visitors through 1,200 years of regional history—from the wealth of the peasant republic to everyday rural life in the 1960s.
The Stone Age Park Dithmarschen offers hands-on activities such as flint knapping, archery, making Stone Age jewelry, making fire, and baking bread. The activities available may vary depending on the program. The Stone Age Forest next to the Stone Age Park in Albersdorf covers around 40 hectares of natural outdoor grounds, with nine original archaeological monuments. The grounds are permanently free to access; check the visiting conditions in advance.
If you want to combine several interests in one trip, you can balance Averlak’s focus on nature and hiking with Dithmarschen’s distinctive cultural and Stone Age attractions. This lets you choose a location based on which experiences matter most for your stay.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Kirchspielslandgemeinden Eider, Kuden, BĂĽsumer Deichhausen, Albersdorf, Nordermeldorf, SĂĽderdorf, Tiebensee, Osterrade.
Back to the main travel overview: Dithmarschen.
