With its 24 square kilometers, Lake Schaalsee is the largest lake in the UNESCO biosphere reserve of the same name. Nature is wild and beautiful. Crystal-clear clean water, fantastic hiking trails and many native animal species - all this awaits you on a trip to the biosphere reserve.
Die Schaalseelandschaft liegt zwischen Hamburg, Lübeck und Schwerin. Sie umfasst eine beachtliche Fläche, die im Jahr 2000 von der UNESCO als Biosphärenreservat anerkannt und somit unter besonderen Schutz gestellt wurde. Ziel ist es, das Mensch und Natur in Harmonie miteinander leben können. Um dies zu erreichen, wurde die Region in drei Zonen eingeteilt. Die Kernzone ist ausschließlich für die Entwicklung der Natur reserviert. Hier haben Menschen keinen Zutritt, und Flora und Fauna dürfen sich frei entfalten. In der Pflegezone werden Kulturlandschaften mit dem Ziel gepflegt, die Ökosysteme zu erhalten. Den größten Teil macht die Entwicklungszone aus, in der eine umweltverträgliche Landnutzung für die Region vorgesehen ist.
Dass sich das Reservat so entwickeln konnte, ich sicher seiner Geschichte zu verdanken. Bis 1990 teilte die innerdeutsche Grenze den Schaalsee, er befand sich im Sperrgebiet. Die Natur hatte somit viel Zeit, sich frei zu entfalten. Auch nach der Vereinigung wurde die wilde Landschaft geschätzt und erhalten. Ein Grenzgänger bleibt der Schaalsee weiterhin: Der eine Teil gehört zu Schleswig-Holstein, der andere zu Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania.
For both countries this is a huge joy, because: The Schaalsee is really an enrichment. Its water quality is excellent, the surroundings are fantastically beautiful, and numerous animal species such as cranes and water buffalo feel at home there.
The biosphere reserve is best explored both on foot and by bike. Besides the large Schaalsee, there are many other lakes that are definitely on the same wavelength in terms of beauty. A total of 150 kilometers of well-signposted hiking and biking trails crisscross the landscape, which could hardly be more varied. If you were just on the shore of a lake, a short time later you are already trudging through deep forest or looking over hilly and wide meadows.
A good starting point for an excursion is the Pahlhuus, the biosphere reserve's information center in Zarrentin. Here, visitors can learn everything about the development of the region from the Ice Age to the present day. There is also plenty of information on hiking and biking trails and many valuable tips. Admission is free - however, during the lockdown due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Pahlhuus will be temporarily closed. Here you will find great routes.
The Schaalsee region can be experienced with all your senses. See the diverse landscapes, smell the scent of the trees and flowers, hear the birds chirping and gentle lapping of the lake and feel the clear air on your skin. Isn't there something missing? That's right, tasting, and there is a lot to enjoy here as well. Numerous people have made it their business to use the resources of the region to produce fine delicacies. Home-baked bread, cheese, juices, jams - these and many other products are offered at markets and in regional goods stores. Very sustainable and delicious! A highlight that ends up on the plates of many locals and visitors: vendace, deliciously fried in butter or smoked. The salmon-like fish is caught by fishermen in nets and offered fresh in the restaurants of the region.
In addition to all the beautiful nature, the biosphere reserve also has a lot of culture to offer. For example, the adventure market at the Pahlhuus, which takes place every first Sunday of the month from April to November, offers regional products and handicrafts. In addition, there is the opportunity to let the varying entertainment program of the Pahlhuus put a smile on your face.
And while you're there, take a look around the quaint fishing town of Zarrentin. The Cistercian nunnery, which is in very good condition due to its extensive and detailed restoration, is impressive. Exhibitions are held in the interior rooms, and concerts and other cultural events are held regularly in the refectory and baroque hall. It is quieter in the library, whose approximately 12,000 media invite you to browse. Don't miss: the fabulous monastery market "Kunst & Werk" (Art & Work) and the Christmas market, which are held inside and outside.
By the way: Lake Schaalsee and the many other lakes around it are of course also wonderfully suitable for boating, kayaking and canoeing. There are numerous rental stations and guided boat tours - with electric motors, of course, the pleasure of the guests should not have a negative impact on the beautiful nature of the biosphere reserve.
By train comfortably and without traffic jams to the Schaalsee: Plan arrival.
Cover photo: Gently resting water in the morning light - the Schaalsee offers many romantic views © Adobestock.com/Sven
