Hollenbek: Kaiserbahn Railway History and the Schaalsee Region

Hollenbek combines a rich railway past with a small museum devoted to agriculture, and is located in the Schaalsee region. The town’s history can be traced through the former Kaiserbahn railway; the surrounding region also appeals to visitors interested in active pursuits and water, with cycling and motorcycling tours and swimming opportunities at nearby lakes. When planning your trip, you can first consider whether Hollenbek’s history or nature and outdoor activities across the wider Herzogtum Lauenburg destination should be your main focus.

The Former Kaiserbahn Railway and Hollenbek’s History

Hollenbek’s history is closely connected to the former Kaiserbahn railway. The town’s railway station opened in 1889, and the railway had a lasting influence on the village. A golden train on the municipal coat of arms recalls this connection. The route from Ratzeburg to Hollenbek is 13 kilometres long.

You can ride hand-operated rail carts on the former railway line between Hollenbek and Schmilau. This service depends on the operator, so check before your trip. This lets you experience the railway tradition not only as part of the town’s history, but also through an activity.

A Small Museum Devoted to Agriculture

The Nature Park Barn complements the historical perspective with a focus on agriculture. The small museum is located on a property owned by the district and is devoted to the history of agriculture and historic farm machinery. This puts rural work and technology in the spotlight alongside the railway. Admission is free. Opening information may change seasonally, so check the latest hours before visiting.

Cycling, Motorcycling and Water in the Schaalsee Region

Hollenbek is located in the Schaalsee region. The surrounding landscape and winding roads are ideal for cycling and motorcycling tours, while nearby lakes offer opportunities for swimming. The regional offering ranges from getting around by bicycle or on the road to spending time by the water. Individual swimming areas and their access conditions may vary. If you are planning a day of swimming, check access at the lake you intend to visit.

The Wider Natural Landscape of Herzogtum Lauenburg

The wider Herzogtum Lauenburg destination offers a broader perspective: 26 percent of the district is forest, and it includes 48 lakes. The Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park lies at the heart of the duchy. It covers an area of about 35 by 17 kilometres and provides a habitat for kingfishers, white-tailed eagles and cranes, among other species. In the Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park, you can hike, cycle, canoe and swim in forest lakes. Four signposted cycling routes offer specific options for exploring by bike. There are also hiking trails, observation towers, educational trails and places to rest. The nature park has been designated a protected area for visitors to enjoy since 1960.

When choosing your accommodation, you can weigh these options against each other: Hollenbek offers specific connections to the Kaiserbahn railway and agriculture, while the wider Herzogtum Lauenburg provides a broader setting for forests, lakes and activities. Decide which focus you want to shape your stay, and tailor your search accordingly.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Berkenthin, Brunstorf, Fredeburg, Krukow, Aumühle, Klempau, Schönberg and Schulendorf.

Go to the wider travel overview: Herzogtum Lauenburg.