Lankau – Lakes, Forests and Trails by the Canal

Gentle hills, lakes, extensive forests and traditional hedgerows known as Knicks define Lankau. The two main lakes are connected by a narrow watercourse. They are about 30 metres deep and are considered clear because of their limestone content. In the forest around Lankau stands the Stork Oak, around 600 years old and listed as a natural monument since 1935. In this small area, a waterside landscape and a striking tree from the town’s history come together.

Trails by the lake and along the Elbe-Lübeck Canal

An extensive network of hiking and cycling trails runs through the forest, along the lake and by the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. Two longer routes offer different ways to explore the area: the 38-kilometre Nature Park Tour follows the eastern bank of the canal from Lankau to Anker. The 39-kilometre Ice Age Tour includes a challenging terminal moraine section around Lankau and Albsfelde. At 39 kilometres, the Ice Age Tour is only slightly longer than the 38-kilometre Nature Park Tour, while also taking in a challenging terminal moraine section.

The waterways also shape the range of activities for a holiday. Lake Lankau is a place to swim and cool off. One of the two lakes has a campsite and a bathing area; the other is used for fishing. The Donnerschleuse lock in Neu-Lankau is also worth a look.

Camping and a stay by the water

Campingplatz Schmidt is right by Lake Lankau at the edge of the forest. Short-stay visitors with their own caravan, motorhome or tent are welcome. The nearby Elbe-Lübeck Canal is ideal for walks and bike rides. If you are travelling with your own camping equipment, this combination of lake, forest edge and trails is a practical option for planning your stay. Capacity and booking arrangements may change; check them before you arrive.

Farm café by Lake Anker

Brandtschatz Café am See is a farm café by Lake Anker, near the Elbe-Lübeck Canal. The farm shop sells homemade chutneys, sauces and juices made with regional ingredients; the selection may vary. The property also includes Diele am See, which can be hired for events with up to 70 people. If you plan to combine an outing with a café visit or are planning an event, check the current selection or rental arrangements in advance.

Choose the right base

Visitors arriving with their own tent, caravan or motorhome have a specific option in Campingplatz Schmidt. For other accommodation choices, consider which surroundings suit your planned activities; you should check the location of each individual option yourself.

Cycling in the Duchy of Lauenburg

The wider destination of the Duchy of Lauenburg has 1,000 kilometres of signposted cycling routes, four long-distance cycle routes and 13 themed circular tours. E-bikes can be rented in Mölln, Ratzeburg and other places in the Duchy of Lauenburg; availability may change. These regional options complement the local trails in Lankau, so you do not have to limit your stay to a single route length. When planning, you can choose between local trails and longer cycling routes across the Duchy of Lauenburg.

Discover more destinations: Schönberg, Groß Grönau, Römnitz, Groß Sarau, Lehmrade, Ziehten, Mustin and Krummesse.

Back to the main travel guide: Duchy of Lauenburg.