ボルンヘーフェダー湖のおすすめウォーキング＆ハイキングルート

Who was Vicelin? Vicelin (c. 1086–1154) was a Christian missionary and later Bishop of Oldenburg in Holstein. He is considered the "Apostle of the Wagrians and Holsteins" because he evangelized the Slavic and Saxon populations of present-day Schleswig-Holstein in the 12th century.

Today's Significance With its 40-meter-high tower, the Vicelin Church is visible from afar and remains the spiritual center of the community today. Modern stained-glass windows, a richly decorated interior, and the park-like church grounds make it a cultural and spiritual attraction.

Historical Origins St. James's Church in Bornhöved was consecrated in 1149 by Bishop Vicelin in the Romanesque style and has dominated the town center ever since. Archaeological finds even indicate a predecessor chapel dating back to around 980, making it one of the oldest religious buildings in the region.

The chapel and cemetery belong to the Vicelin Church in Neumünster. Vicelin played a significant role there: in 1127, he founded the "Novum Monasterium" (New Münster) monastery in Neumünster and from there carried out missionary work in Holstein and Wagria.

The glassworks and brickworks in Ruhwinkel consumed vast quantities of wood until the 19th century, creating large open spaces that were later sustainably reforested by Holten Fürchtegott and Magdalene von Trepka. Today, these forests serve both forestry and nature conservation, providing habitat for animals and plants, and continue to provide important data for environmental and climate research.

A wooden cross, approximately 3 meters tall, stands here on a raised meadow near Vierer Weg. From here, you have a wonderful view over Lake Schmalensee.

“Caution: Ducks!” Sign warns of ducks crossing near the riverbank. Smiling is permitted, but braking is recommended. These signs are not legally binding, like the wildlife crossing sign (No. 142), but they do increase the awareness of road users.

The view of the lake from this lakeside path is very limited in summer. Nevertheless, the path is pleasantly walkable. The large ancient oak trees are striking, indicating the path's great age.