The Rantzau valley covers a total of 215 hectares around the Rantzau stream with its valley. It lies between Ridders and the mouth of the Sturgeon. The hiking tour described here leads through a particularly beautiful part of the area, is around seven kilometers long and starts at the car park at the old forester's lodge, which can be reached via the B77 federal road. Red circles with a white 10 show the way.
From the forester's house, a thatched brick building, it goes straight into the forest. After a short distance, the hikers turn right onto the nearby forester's bridge. A wildly romantic view of the Rantzau valley opens up from its railing. Brook lamprey and brown trout swim in the renatured watercourse.
Since the year 2000, the Rantzau near the Holstein Forest and the Schlotfeld has been restored to its original state in accordance with EU regulations. The dismantling and its success is particularly clear from the forester's bridge. The stream flows here again in natural meanders. Stone fills and sand traps were laid out and typical riparian trees were planted. A short rest is recommended here before continuing on into the forest, where walkers can turn right for fine views across the open countryside before turning left back into the forest.
Especially on hot summer days, the path through the shady deciduous forest offers cooling. If you keep quiet, you can meet and observe shy residents. At the junction for Orleans Bridge (left), the proposed route turns right toward a lake. Shortly before, you turn left again to enjoy the beauty of the Holstein Forest to the fullest.