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.

459 results

  • Side view of the half-timbered church // © Mecklenburgische Kleinseenplatte Touristik GmbH

    Church Blankenförde

    • Blankenförde, 17252 Roggentin

    Churches of the region - Experience small village churches or large, restored buildings from the time of the Knights of St. John. You can feel the powerful charisma of these old buildings and for a moment time stands still. - The half-timbered church in Blankenförde -

    Read more: "Church Blankenförde"
  • Unterhaltsame Freizeit in der Hintersten Mühle Neubrandenburg erleben // © Hinterste Mühle gGmbH

    Social and Youth Center Hinterste Mühle

    • Hinterste Mühle, 17033 Neubrandenburg

    Baking bread and cakes In the wood-burning oven, exercise school and adventure hikes in the forest or playing and doing handicrafts - in the Hintersten Mühle Neubrandenburg, a social and youth center, children and young people are at the forefront and experience entertaining camps

    Read more: "Social and Youth Center Hinterste Mühle"
  • Climbing park in Plau am See // © Kletterpark Plau am See

    Climbing park Plau am See

    • Ziegeleiweg, 19395 Plau am See

    Our climbing park is a special kind of adventure forest: the rope courses lead you through living trees at lofty heights.

    Read more: "Climbing park Plau am See"
  • Ausblick aus der Cabin // © Theresa Lange

    Time out at Lake Tollensesee - Tiny Houses

    • 17094 Groß Nemerow

    Auszeit Tollensesee offers stylishly designed cabins with a private sauna and panoramic views over the Nonnenhof nature reserve. Perfect for switching off, recharging your batteries and simply being.

    Read more: "Time out at Lake Tollensesee - Tiny Houses"
  • Luftbild des Fischereibetriebes mit Ferienhäusern // © Fischerei und Räucherei Alt-Schwerin/Dietmar Bürth

    Fishing & Smokehouse Alt Schwerin

    • Wendorf, 17214 Alt Schwerin

    Fishing business with boat mooring (also for large yachts) in Lake Plauer See, fish restaurant with original Mecklenburg fish cuisine, smokehouse and vacation apartments directly on the lake.

    Read more: "Fishing & Smokehouse Alt Schwerin"
  • © Thomas Neske

    Malchow lido

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • Strandstraße, 17213 Malchow

    with playground / basketball court / streetball court / volleyball court

    Read more: "Malchow lido"
  • © Stadt Waren (Müritz)

    Public bath Waren (Müritz)

    • Kameruner Weg, 17192 Waren (Müritz)

    This gated pool is very family-friendly and offers a large water slide, several beach volleyball courts, playground, a dock and designated non-swimmer areas, as well as changing facilities, restrooms and food service.

    Read more: "Public bath Waren (Müritz)"
  • © FSV GbR

    Go-kart & bike rental - Fleesensee Vermietung GbR

    • Wendhofer Str., 17213 Göhren-Lebbin

    More fun with go-karts, bikes, and family mobiles in beautiful Land Fleesensee! Rental of bicycles and pedal-powered go-karts in Göhren-Lebbin. An experience for young and old.

    Read more: "Go-kart & bike rental - Fleesensee Vermietung GbR"
  • © Page Holger Brümmer

    Waterski and surf school Holger Brümmer

    • August-Bebel-Strasse, 19395 Plau am See

    Waterskiing and wakeboarding has been our specialty since we were founded in 1995. Our experience with students of all ages and skill levels as well as first-class equipment makes our school the No. 1 in the Mecklenburg Lake District.

    Read more: "Waterski and surf school Holger Brümmer"
  • © Peter Ramsch

    Pound pit manor house Rambow Hof

    • Rambow Hof, 17194 Moltzow

    The Pfundgrube Gutshaus Rambow Hof is a treasure trove of culture and nature in the middle of the idyllic landscape of Mecklenburg Switzerland. This excursion destination offers a unique blend of historical significance and cultural diversity, nestled in the small village of Rambow.

    Read more: "Pound pit manor house Rambow Hof"
  • Zufahrt zur Herberge // © UrlaubmiteinAnders e.V.

    Urlaub MiteinAnders e.V.

    • Seltz-Pflegeheim, 17089 Gültz

    Seeing the wood for the trees - nestled between the trees, the former nursing home offers peace and space to relax. Not alone, but together with the WaldMeister, you can chill out and chat away from the noise of time, including the noise in your head.

    Read more: "Urlaub MiteinAnders e.V."
  • Vorderansicht // © J. Janssen

    Penzlin Manor House

    • Am Brink, 19386 Gallin-Kuppentin

    The listed manor house of the former Penzlin manor is beautifully surrounded by a large park with old trees, directly above Lake Penzlin in the middle of a charming hilly landscape.

    Read more: "Penzlin Manor House"
  • Doll museum - in Frieda's little barn

    • Malchower Chaussee, 17209 Altenhof/Darze

    In Frieda's little barn there is a doll's house museum above a store for old and beautiful things. Free admission

    Read more: "Doll museum - in Frieda's little barn"
  • Wohnung Nr. 5 (separat) // © A. Wilken

    Villa Blanck

    • Gartenstraße, 17213 Malchow

    Enjoy the peace and the beautiful landscape in the heart of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern! Stay in one of our beautiful vacation apartments directly at the Malchower See.

    Read more: "Villa Blanck"
  • Family on the barefoot path in Plau am See // © Kletterpark Plau am See

    Barefoot adventure trail

    • Closed today
    • Ziegeleiweg, 19395 Plau am See

    Barefoot adventure trail in Plau am See

    Read more: "Barefoot adventure trail"
  • Stylish studios, on request with a fairy-tale lake view // © Hotel Rosendomizil, Malchow

    Hotel Rosendomizil Malchow

    • Lange Straße, 17213 Malchow

    Picturesque interior, delicious specialties and the feeling of being welcome at any time of the year await you at the Hotel Rosendomizil: Discover our individually and lovingly furnished Malchow house in the heart of the Mecklenburg Lake District!

    Read more: "Hotel Rosendomizil Malchow"
  • © Mario Bünger

    Luzinferien.de

    • OT Carwitz/ Carwitzer Str., 17258 Feldberger Seenlandschaft

    Spacious vacation home for 8 to 10 people with open gallery and panoramic terrace above the treetops on the narrow Luzin for weekly rent (7 days, each from Saturday to Saturday)

    Read more: "Luzinferien.de"
  • Die ideale Schnuppersaison - Herbsturlaub auf dem Hausboot // © Mortan Strauch

    Yacht charter Schulz

    • An der Reeck, 17192 Waren (Müritz)

    Yachtcharter Schulz offers everything a boater's heart desires, from boating vacations on a thousand lakes to day trips and one-way tours.

    Read more: "Yacht charter Schulz"
  • Klimawald Mirow // © Landesforst MV

    Climate forest Mirow

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 17255 Zirtow

    Here near Mirow in the Mecklenburg Lake District, red alder trees are growing on 2.8 hectares, which were financed through the sale of forest shares between 2008 and 2011. This climate forest will bind approx. 2600 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere during its growth period.

    Read more: "Climate forest Mirow"
  • Steg Himmelsblick im Kurwald // © Silke Naumann

    Lake promenade Krakow on the lake

    • Freely accessible at any time
    • 18292 Krakow am See

    Maritime flair is promised by the dreamy lake promenade, which is only a few steps away from the old town and offers a wide view of the Krakow city lake.

    Read more: "Lake promenade Krakow on the lake"

Content is loaded

Select a location in the region

Select a region

or enter a location directly

Content is loaded

Discover the Mecklenburg Lake District

Inspiration to read more in the vacation magazine

  1. Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes

    Read more: "Organized cycle tours between the Baltic Sea and lakes"
  2. Top

    5

    Special animal tours in the nature experience centers

    Read more: "Special animal tours in the nature experience centers"
  3. The Nature Park Trail

    Read more: "The Nature Park Trail"
  4. Wonderful winter experiences

    Read more: "Wonderful winter experiences"
  5. Mother and daughter on tour together

    Read more: "Mother and daughter on tour together"
  6. With the houseboat across the lake district of MV

    Read more: "With the houseboat across the lake district of MV"
  7. Health-promoting cure with natural remedies

    Read more: "Health-promoting cure with natural remedies"
  8. Top

    5

    Five sights in the Barlach town of Güstrow

    Read more: "Five sights in the Barlach town of Güstrow"
  9. Houseboat vacation with teenagers

    Read more: "Houseboat vacation with teenagers"
  10. Family vacation at the Waldhof Bruchmühle

    Read more: "Family vacation at the Waldhof Bruchmühle"
  11. In the houseboat barrier-free on the Müritz

    Read more: "In the houseboat barrier-free on the Müritz"
  12. On fall vacation with grandma and grandpa

    Read more: "On fall vacation with grandma and grandpa"
  13. The Flower Queen and Mirow Castle

    Read more: "The Flower Queen and Mirow Castle"
  14. Top

    5

    Beach bars on the Baltic coast and inland

    Read more: "Beach bars on the Baltic coast and inland"
  15. Houseboat adventure

    Read more: "Houseboat adventure"
  16. Christmas market and Advent magic at Ulrichshusen Castle

    Read more: "Christmas market and Advent magic at Ulrichshusen Castle"
  17. Medical wellness in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Medical wellness in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  18. Top

    7

    Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern

    Read more: "Tiny Houses in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern"
  19. Romantic weekend at the manor house

    Read more: "Romantic weekend at the manor house"
  20. Vacation with alkaline fasting in Waren (Müritz)

    Read more: "Vacation with alkaline fasting in Waren (Müritz)"
  21. Dog-friendly accommodation: Vacation with a woof effect

    Read more: "Dog-friendly accommodation: Vacation with a woof effect"
  22. Two girls, two SUPs and a weekend

    Read more: "Two girls, two SUPs and a weekend"
  23. Top

    7

    Seven reasons for a houseboat vacation in autumn

    Read more: "Seven reasons for a houseboat vacation in autumn"
  24. Houseboat vacation in the Mecklenburg Lake District

    Read more: "Houseboat vacation in the Mecklenburg Lake District"
  25. Inclusive sailing in Plau am See

    Read more: "Inclusive sailing in Plau am See"
  26. Cycling on the Elbe-Oderhaff cycle path

    Read more: "Cycling on the Elbe-Oderhaff cycle path"
  27. Top

    5

    Country holiday tips for the fall

    Read more: "Country holiday tips for the fall"
  28. By e-bike through the Mecklenburg Lake District

    Read more: "By e-bike through the Mecklenburg Lake District"
  29. Canoe and camping tour

    Read more: "Canoe and camping tour"
  30. Top

    5

    Excursion destinations in fall with children

    Read more: "Excursion destinations in fall with children"
  31. On the trail of Ernst Barlach in Güstrow

    Read more: "On the trail of Ernst Barlach in Güstrow"
1- 0 from 0

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.