Rodenbek between nature park and Annenhof Estate

Rodenbek lies in the Westensee terminal moraine landscape and in Westensee Nature Park. Nature and landscape provide the setting for a stay here, while historic Annenhof Estate adds a distinctive cultural and historical touch. When planning your trip, it is worth keeping both in mind: the natural surroundings and the different ways to experience them on foot, by bike or on the water.

Landscape and protected areas

Rodenbek includes the “Ahrensee and northeastern Westensee” nature reserve. The municipality is also part of the “Upper Eider Area including Lakes” FFH area and the “Ahrensee and northeastern Westensee Nature Reserve” EU bird sanctuary; the “Westensee Landscape” protected landscape is also located here. These protected areas are among the defining features of the natural environment. Please follow local guidance when visiting protected areas.

The landscape around Rodenbek was shaped during the last Ice Age. The wider natural area encompasses hills and valleys, forests and fields, moors, lakes and marshes, as well as small rivers, gravel ridges and sandbanks. In the wider Westensee Nature Park, the transition from natural to cultural landscape is shaped by hedgerows, field margins, orchards and small farms. The region thus brings together natural landscapes and a finely divided, cultivated landscape.

Routes and activities in the region

Westensee Nature Park has a marked network of cycling and bridle paths; hiking routes pass through nature and landscape conservation areas. Smaller lakes offer opportunities for swimming, though access and conditions may vary. Fishing is possible in streams, rivers and lakes in the nature park. Check the applicable rules and any permit requirements in advance. Guided bike tours visit viewpoints and places of interest; availability may vary.

There are several options when choosing a route: a regional hike covers 22 kilometres through the Eider lowlands to Ahrensee, then continues via Hohenhude, Wrohe and Westensee. A 33-kilometre circular cycle route starts near Westensee and runs through the Eider valley, along the Eider Ring Canal, and via Hohenhude and Wrohe around Westensee. One route is described as a hike, the other as a circular cycle route—a useful distinction when planning active days.

There are also regional options on the water: by canoe or kayak, you can reach the Kiel Canal or Westensee via the Eider Ring Canal. Before setting out, find out about the applicable waterways regulations and the availability of relevant services. Bus connections between Kiel and Flintbek run along the Eider Valley Hiking Trail; there are railway stations in Flintbek and Bordesholm. Check the timetables when planning to travel by public transport.

Annenhof Estate: a historic highlight

Historic Annenhof Estate is located in Annenhof, within the municipality of Rodenbek, and was established after 1652. Caspar von Saldern acquired the estate in 1771. Only the manor house remains of the former estate complex. It is a twelve-bay semi-detached house with a pitched roof and projections on the garden side. The twelve bays give an impression of the building’s layout, while the projections add distinctive features to the garden side. For anyone interested in architectural history as well as the landscape, the manor house complements the nature experiences with a tangible historic destination.

Rendsburg-Eckernförde: the wider region

The wider destination of Rendsburg-Eckernförde offers another perspective for trip planning: the district has 55 kilometres of Baltic Sea coastline and a signposted 1,000-kilometre cycle route network; it is also home to four nature parks. Westensee-Obere Eider Nature Park is characterised by numerous lake complexes. It includes Westensee, which covers around seven square kilometres and is a popular excursion destination. These regional features complement the picture of Rodenbek’s own landscape and Annenhof Estate.

Discover more destinations: Brügge, Blumenthal, Fleckeby, Oldenbüttel, Lütjenwestedt, Norby, Altenholz, Felm.

Go to the main travel overview: Rendsburg-Eckernförde.