Highlight • Lake
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(64)
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4.6
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Hiking
5.0
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Running
5.0
(1)
The Großer Dorfteich Grabau, also known as Grabauer See or Hohendammer Mühlenteich, is a picturesque lake nestled in the municipality of Grabau, within the Stormarn district of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Situated at an elevation of 81 metres, this standing body of water is a significant natural feature, renowned for its diverse ecosystem and role as a protected biotope. It forms a crucial part of the biotope network axis of the Norderbeste, connecting to the broader Beste and Trave river systems.
Visitors…
Tips
April 8, 2020
Cycling
January 31, 2025
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near Großer Dorfteich Grabau

4.7
(3)
12
hikers
7.87km
02:00
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

7
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 80 m
Weather
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Monday 18 May
19°C
9°C
41 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 8.0 km/h
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The walking routes around Großer Dorfteich Grabau are generally easy and suitable for all ages. The terrain is mostly flat, with paths winding through alder-ash swamp forests, willow bushes, and along the lake's reed-lined banks. While not challenging, some areas might be natural and unpaved, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
The lake itself, particularly its western side with extensive reed beds, offers excellent opportunities for nature observation. While there aren't designated 'viewpoints' in the traditional sense, the entire perimeter provides chances to spot various bird species. The water lilies in summer are a highlight, and the surrounding swamp forests offer a tranquil setting. Keep an eye out for kingfishers and even white-tailed eagles.
Yes, Großer Dorfteich Grabau can be a beautiful destination for a winter hike. During the colder months, the lake serves as a significant resting area for various geese species, including grey geese, white-fronted geese, and Canada geese, as well as common mergansers and great egrets. The tranquil, often frosty landscape offers a different, serene experience compared to summer. Ensure you dress warmly and wear appropriate footwear for potentially damp or icy conditions.
Großer Dorfteich Grabau is a haven for birdwatchers. In summer, you can spot mallards, common goldeneyes, coots, moorhens, kingfishers, great crested grebes, grey geese, cormorants, and grey herons. During winter, it hosts a variety of geese species, common mergansers, smews, little grebes, great egrets, tufted ducks, and common pochards. It's also a feeding ground for the impressive white-tailed eagle.
Yes, many visitors enjoy circular walks that encompass the lake's perimeter and the adjacent natural landscapes. These routes allow you to experience the diverse flora and fauna from all angles. While there isn't one single 'official' circular trail, the area is well-suited for creating your own loop, typically taking 1-2 hours depending on your pace and exploration.
Yes, Großer Dorfteich Grabau is generally dog-friendly. Many visitors enjoy walking their dogs around the lake. However, as it is a protected biotope and home to sensitive wildlife, it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash, especially near the reed beds and during bird breeding seasons, to protect the local ecosystem and ensure a pleasant experience for all.
The landscape around Großer Dorfteich Grabau was formed over 12,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age. Historically, in 1486, the Norderbeste was dammed to create a large fish pond. It was later part of aristocratic estates and used for carp breeding. Since 1993, it has been owned by the Sparkassen-Kulturstiftung Stormarn, which purchased it for nature conservation, ending commercial fishing to prioritize its ecological value.
The immediate vicinity of Großer Dorfteich Grabau in Grabau is primarily residential and natural. While there aren't cafes or pubs directly on the lake, you may find local amenities within the village of Grabau or in nearby larger towns in the Stormarn district. For accommodation, it's best to look for guesthouses or hotels in the surrounding region of Schleswig-Holstein.
The time it takes to walk around Großer Dorfteich Grabau depends on your pace and how much you stop to observe nature. A leisurely walk around the main perimeter, taking in the scenery, typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. The paths are generally easy, making it suitable for a relaxed outing.
Großer Dorfteich Grabau is legally protected due to its diverse ecosystem and its role as a vital habitat for numerous plant and animal species. Its shallow banks, extensive reed beds, and surrounding alder-ash swamp forests support a rich variety of flora and fauna, including many bird species, some of which are rare, like the white-tailed eagle. It also forms a crucial part of the biotope network axis of the Norderbeste.
No, swimming is not permitted in Großer Dorfteich Grabau. The lake's banks are shallow, particularly in the western part, and feature extensive reed beds. As a protected biotope, the primary focus is on nature conservation and providing a habitat for wildlife, rather than recreational water activities like swimming.
For a comfortable walk, we recommend packing comfortable walking shoes suitable for natural paths. Depending on the season, bring layers of clothing, rain gear, and sun protection. Binoculars are highly recommended for birdwatching, and a camera will allow you to capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife. Don't forget water and perhaps a snack.