Mecklenburg Lake District

Land of 1,000 Lakes

More than 1,000 lakes - including Germany's largest lake, the Müritz - come together in the Mecklenburg Lake District to form a veritable El Dorado for water sports fans - whether paddling, vacationing on a houseboat or sailing.

A couple sits on a jetty at sunset on Lake Mirov. A houseboat passes by in the background.

Here you are always on or near the water. After all, the area is considered Europe's largest closed lake district. There is a glistening body of water behind practically every hill and forest. The more than 1,000 lakes and the rivers that connect them invite you to Excursions by boat or raft. The scenery of such an adventure is as varied as it is impressive, the landscape is lush and nature is protected. Of course, this is particularly true of the Müritz National Park and the Nossentiner / Schwinzer Heide and Feldberger Seenlandschaft nature parks. Between the unspoilt natural surroundings lie sleepy villages and winding little towns, charming manor houses and enchanted Schlösser – a popular excursion destination for culture vultures.

And when was the last time you went stargazing? No light pollution spoils the view of the seemingly endless night sky above the Mecklenburg Lake District, which is particularly inviting in the fall and winter for extended „bathing“ in the shining sea of stars.

The vacation experts for the Mecklenburg Lake District

 

The most beautiful places

in the Mecklenburg Lake District

Malchow

As a climatic health resort, the island town of Malchow offers the perfect environment for spa vacationers and nature lovers. Situated between Müritz and Lake Plau, the water is never far away. A summer toboggan run and the monkey forest provide varied entertainment for children.

Neustrelitz

The residential town of Neustrelitz is a baroque gem with a star-shaped town complex. Even today, numerous buildings and the Neustrelitz palace park are reminders of the town's magnificent past. The adjacent Müritz National Park with its protected beech forests and around 100 lakes is also a popular excursion destination for hikers, cyclists and water sports enthusiasts.

Mirow

The town of Mirow is best known for the castle of the same name, where the British Queen Sophie Charlotte grew up in the 18th century. But Mirow not only has a lot to offer those interested in culture: Surrounded by dense forests and a glistening lake landscape, hikers, nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts will find a breathtaking landscape here for fantastic excursions on and around the water.

Plau am See

Plau am See delights visitors with its historic town center, romantic half-timbered houses and the impressive castle ruins and observation tower. As a state-approved climatic health resort, the charming little town offers ideal conditions for those seeking relaxation. The characteristic lifting bridge is not only a technical monument, but also a popular vantage point. Situated directly on the western shore of Lake Plau, access to the water can be felt everywhere - whether on a relaxing walk along the lakeside promenade, swimming on family-friendly beaches or on boat and canoe tours through the wide waterways. A nature adventure trail, the Plau city forest area and a nearby forest make Plau am See an attractive destination for families and nature lovers.

Krakow by the lake

Krakow am See is one of the oldest climatic health resorts in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern and is idyllically nestled between forests, hills and the lake of the same name. The charming town center with historic houses, cozy cafés and small galleries invites you to linger. The lakeside promenade offers sweeping views across the water, while pedal boat or stand-up paddle board excursions promise active enjoyment. On the Jürnberg, a viewing tower provides sweeping views of the region. Those who prefer a quieter pace can discover the tranquil beauty of the surrounding nature while hiking, cycling or on a tour through the fog moor. Krakow am See is an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and nature lovers.

Neubrandenburg

History and architecture enthusiasts should – the city of four gates –. As part of the European Route of Brick Gothic, you can admire the old city wall with its four gates and St. Mary's Church, one of the most exciting concert halls in Germany, in the third largest city in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. For culture lovers, numerous concerts, ballets and musicals offer an entertaining program for the vacation.

Waren

Waren an der Müritz: a town with a rich history and unique nature. The lively town center attracts visitors with its cosy cafés and shops and the surrounding countryside can be explored in a relaxed way while hiking or cycling.

The Müritz offers water sports opportunities for everyone. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the diversity of this beautiful city.

The best vacation activities

Activities in and on the water

With over 1,000 lakes, the Mecklenburg Lake District is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and recreational boaters. Whether Stand-up paddling, an excursion with the sailboat or relaxing vacation days on the houseboat – the Mecklenburg Lake District offers numerous vacation activities on the water.

Hiking and cycling

The region's magnificent lake landscape can also be enjoyed from the countryside. With its unspoiled nature, it offers ideal conditions for extensive cycling and hiking tours. The Müritz circular cycle route and the Mecklenburg Lake District pilgrimage route, for example, offer unique experiences.

Camping

Camping right by the lake: If you don't want to have to travel far from your motorhome or tent to the nearest shore, the Mecklenburg Lake District is the place to be. Some Campingplätze also offer an entertainment program for children and canoes, stand-up paddleboards and motorboats can be rented at many bathing lakes.  

Popular excursion destinations

and famous sights in the Mecklenburg Lake District

 

Mirow Castle

Built in the mid-18th century and situated on an island, Mirow Castle is best known as the birthplace of Princess Sophie Charlotte, who went down in history as Queen of Great Britain when she married King George III. Today, the castle museum offers families and culture enthusiasts insights into baroque castle life.

Neustrelitz Palace Garden

The ducal palace garden in Neustrelitz is a gem of 18th and 19th century garden art. Temples and avenues adorn the magnificent park, which invites nature lovers to stroll and discover at any time of year.

Müritzeum Nature Experience Center

The Müritzeum invites young and old to explore the water world of the Mecklenburg Lake District. The interactive exhibition offers insights into the local flora and fauna and impresses with a two-story aquarium basin where the underwater world of the Müritz, including a silvery shimmering shoal of vendace, can be admired up close.

Müritz Bear Forest

In the Müritz Bear Forest, visitors meet brown bears that have been freed from often disastrous keeping conditions and have found a new home in the Müritz Bear Conservation Center. During a guided tour through the deliberately natural forest, you will learn a lot about the life and characteristics of the imposing animals and can admire the bears up close. An exciting destination for families and animal lovers!

Heinrich-Schliemann-Museum

In the Heinrich Schliemann Museum, young and old visitors go on a discovery tour with the famous archaeologist and antiquities researcher: How did the boy from Ankershagen become the man who discovered Troy? The museum in Schliemann's former childhood home displays some of his most significant finds and traces Schliemann's fascinating life in detail.

443 results

  • © MV-T/Gohlke

    Penzlin Castle - Witch Museum

    • Open today
    • Burg, 17217 Penzlin

    Cultural History Museum of Everyday Magic and Witch Persecutions in Mecklenburg

    Read more: "Penzlin Castle - Witch Museum"
  • Der Saloon oder die Reiterstube in Hilly- Billy-Town // © B. Kiel

    Hilly-Billy-Town

    • Schneidemühle, 17237 Godendorf

    Our small farm is located on the border with Brandenburg in a valley, surrounded by forest and water. Many small and large "cuddly animals" are waiting for nature- and animal-loving guests in the season from May to November. Whether vacation with your own horse or dog, bicycle or as a hiker - a cozy cottage or overnight stay with your own sleeping bag - we have the right place for everyone.

    Read more: "Hilly-Billy-Town"
  • Good Zahren

    • Dorfstraße, 19386 Zahren

    Space for ideas - that is the motto of the spacious estate with French flair. There are vacation apartments, lounges, seminar rooms and an estate kitchen.

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  • © Mecklenburgische Kleinseenplatte Touristik GmbH

    Wesenberg castle with fishing tower

    • Burg, 17255 Wesenberg

    Castle complex with local history room and exhibition on fishing and regional history, tourist information, public Internet access, nationwide ticket service

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  • Barefoot adventure trail

    • Closed today
    • Ziegeleiweg, 19395 Plau am See

    Barefoot adventure trail in Plau am See

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  • Van der Valk Golf Hotel Serrahn

    • Dobbiner Weg, 18292 Serrahn

    Surrounded by crystal clear lakes, lush green meadows, wide open fields and forests lies the "Golfhotel Serrahn". An ideal place to unwind or enjoy some action-packed days during the most wonderful time of the year.

    Read more: "Van der Valk Golf Hotel Serrahn"
  • Organic nursery Watzkendorf

    • Zum Mühlenbach, 17237 Blankensee

    In the small village of Watzkendorf between the Müritz National Park and the Feldberg Lake District Nature Park, vegetables have been grown since 1961.

    Read more: "Organic nursery Watzkendorf"
  • Gretchenheim Plau am See

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Rahmwallstraße, 19395 Plau am See

    Monument

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  • © Erlebniswerkstatt Zahren

    Zahren adventure workshop

    • Closed today
    • Hartwigsdorfer Weg, 17217 Penzlin /OT Zahren

    The Erlebniswerkstatt Zahren offers people of all ages a creative space. Here you can play and dream or tinker with recycled and natural materials, realize your own projects, make objects and art yourself.

    Read more: "Zahren adventure workshop"
  • Maremüritz Marina Resort

    • Am Seeufer, 17192 Waren (Müritz)

    Infinite horizon - Between two lakes. The MAREMÜRITZ Yachthafen Resort is located in the land of 1,000 lakes, on a narrow strip of shoreline. Here you will find the highest quality apartments in the region with a view of the Müritz, its own marina with over 60 berths, a heated outdoor pool and saunas, as well as the most beautiful sunsets, which can be admired from the sun terrace of the "Bella Riva" restaurant & café.

    Read more: "Maremüritz Marina Resort"
  • © Hotel "Zum Löwen"

    Restaurant, beer garden & café "Zum Löwen"

    • Schleusengasse, 17255 Wesenberg OT Strasen

    he excursion destination at the Strasen lock. Open daily from April to October. Regional fish and game specialties, vegetarian & vegan offer

    Read more: "Restaurant, beer garden & café "Zum Löwen""
  • Das Hotel Am Tiefwarensee liegt in einer Parklandschaft und einem großen Schaugarten. // © Torsten Rassmann

    Hotel Am Tiefwarensee

    • Richard-Wossidlo-Straße, 17192 Waren (Müritz)

    3-star hotel with 70 beds in a quiet location directly on the Tiefwarensee in a garden landscape. Café-restaurant with garden terrace, sauna. Open all year round.

    Read more: "Hotel Am Tiefwarensee"
  • Marina and sailing school Plau am See

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Seestraße, 19395 Plau am See

    The marina is located on the western shore of Lake Plau south of Plau am See. The oldest sailing school in Mecklenburg is also located here.

    Read more: "Marina and sailing school Plau am See"
  • © Kur- und Tourismus GmbH Göhren-Lebbin

    Playground at the market place in Göhren-Lebbin

    • 17213 Göhren-Lebbin

    Climbing frame, slide, spring seesaws, one-man carousel, polar bear, fountain, seating directly on the marketplace area in Land Fleesensee

    Read more: "Playground at the market place in Göhren-Lebbin"
  • Living room of the vacation apartment Schmiede in Blücherhof // © Andre Pretzel

    Vacation apartment Schmiede Blücherhof

    • Hof, 17194 Blücherhof

    Our 4-star vacation apartment "Schmiede Blücherhof" is perfect for families, golf lovers alike. In the middle of nature you can escape the stress of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet. There is room for two to four people on 70 m².

    Read more: "Vacation apartment Schmiede Blücherhof"
  • Logo equestrian center Sabine Bender // © Sabine Bender

    Equestrian center Sabine Bender

    • Warsow, 17154 Warsow

    Sabine Bender's horse farm is located on Lake Kummerow in Warsow near Neukalen in Mecklenburg Switzerland. Peace and relaxation are not foreign words here.

    Read more: "Equestrian center Sabine Bender"
  • © Wiebke Hörring

    Children Youth Art House Güstrow

    • Baustraße, 18273 Güstrow

    We show seen and invented from all workshops: painting, graphics, textiles and objects. Figures in the variety of their shape testify to the imagination of the children and young people. The exhibition encourages participation - material is ready.

    Read more: "Children Youth Art House Güstrow"
  • Bedroom in cottage Seeblick // © Ferienkontor

    Vacation home Seeblick at Jabel Lake

    • Am Schwalbenberg, 17194 Jabel

    If you want to spend your vacation directly at the lake in a quiet location, then a vacation dream will come true in this vacation home with sauna. The vacation home with a rowing boat that can be used free of charge is located in the first row on the Jabel lake. The street on which the house is located is a dead end and therefore very quiet.

    Read more: "Vacation home Seeblick at Jabel Lake"
  • Youth Hostel Teterow

    • Am Seebahnhof, 17166 Teterow

    Book your all-round carefree package with us! We realize your wishes. With us, children are guaranteed to meet other children and the relaxed atmosphere in the house makes it possible for guests to enjoy the most beautiful days of the year. The various excursion, leisure and activity possibilities are a paradise for everyone.

    Read more: "Youth Hostel Teterow"
  • © Bernhard Pfitzner

    Amtswerder - House Pfitzner vacation apartments

    • OT Feldberg, Amtsplatz, 17258 Feldberger Seenlandschaft

    Located in Feldberg on the west side of the Amtswerder peninsula on the Haussee lake, the former hotel farmstead (listed ensemble) with its 2 reconstructed half-timbered clay houses dating from 1765 and 1838 now offers individual apartments of various sizes with comfort and charm.

    Read more: "Amtswerder - House Pfitzner vacation apartments"

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Discover the Mecklenburg Lake District

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FAQ about a vacation in the Lake District

What makes the Mecklenburg Lake District special?

With over 1,000 lakes, the Lake District is the largest contiguous lake area in Central Europe. It offers a unique diversity of nature - from huge bodies of water such as the Müritz to idyllic small lakes - ideal for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation.

Where is the lake district and how big is it?

The region extends in the north-east of Germany (MV, partly BB and SH) over a length of around 240 km and a width of around 30 km with approx. 6,000 km of surface area.

Which lake is the largest in Germany?

The Müritz, at 109 km², is the largest fully inland lake in Germany. It is often referred to as the „Little Sea“.

Can you sail on the waters of the lake district without a boating license?

Yes, license-free houseboats or small boats can be rented – ideal for carefree navigation on rivers and canals.

Who is the lake district particularly suitable for?

For families, nature lovers and active vacationers – there are campsites, forests, animal parks, water & cycle paths, barrier-free offers and quiet children's beaches.

When is the best time to travel?

The main season with pleasant temperatures is from May to September - ideal for water and outdoor activities. In the low season, you can experience relaxed tranquillity and idyllic nature.

Which cities and places should I visit?

Recommendable are Waren and R&R on the Müritz, Schlossinsel Mirow, Malchow, Plau am See – with historic towns, ports, castles and cozy cafés.