Things To Do
in Malente
Malente is a scenic town in Schleswig-Holstein, set between the Dieksee and Großer Binnensee in the Holsteinische Schweiz. The surrounding lakes, forests and rolling hills invite outdoor activities like cycling, hiking and boating. With easy access to Eutin and Plön, Malente combines rural charm with proximity to historic castles and markets.
Throughout the year, it serves as a peaceful base for nature lovers and day trips in northern Germany.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a cozy café in Malente, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and local coffee. Afterward, wander through the picturesque streets of the historic center, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops. Be sure to visit the St. Mary's Church, a beautiful Gothic structure that offers a glimpse into the town's rich history.
In the afternoon, head to the Malente Museum to learn more about the region's heritage and culture through fascinating exhibits. After the museum, take a stroll around the nearby Kurpark, where you can enjoy the beautiful gardens and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Grab a light lunch at a nearby bistro, sampling traditional German fare while you relax and take in the scenery.
As evening approaches, dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine, where you can savor dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along the shores of the Dieksee Lake, enjoying the serene atmosphere as the sun sets. End your day with a nightcap at a nearby pub, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy the warm hospitality of Malente.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting out for a nature walk in the surrounding countryside. The trails around Malente offer stunning views of the lush green forests and sparkling lakes, perfect for a refreshing morning hike. Along the way, keep an eye out for local flora and fauna, making sure to capture the beauty with your camera.
After your hike, enjoy a picnic lunch by the shores of the Plöner See, where the tranquil waters provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Spend the afternoon kayaking or paddle boating on the lake, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the area. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore more of the scenic cycling paths that wind through the countryside.
As the sun sets, return to Malente and treat yourself to dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can enjoy fresh fish dishes and local wines. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the lakefront promenade, listening to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the shore. End your evening with a visit to a local ice cream shop, indulging in a sweet treat under the starlit sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛏️Hotel room (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🚆Local transport pass (1 day) | $4-12 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning lakes and forest landscapes ideal for outdoor lovers
- Relaxed, safe, family-friendly atmosphere
- Excellent base for day trips to Eutin and Plön
- Good regional cuisine and accessible markets
- Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
- Some attractions are seasonal or require short drives to larger towns
- Smaller towns may have fewer English-speaking staff in some spots
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like to have ...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Malente
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, tranquil water with gentle light in the early morning; reflections create serene landscape photos.
Expansive open water framed by pine forests; ideal for wide-angle and drone shots (where permitted).
Formal gardens and a moat with historic architecture, perfect for architectural and portrait photography.
Highest point in Schleswig-Holstein offering sweeping views over lakes and countryside.
Food in Malente
Malente Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional kale dish with a sausage (Pinkel); especially popular in colder months and found in many local eateries.
Must-Try!
Pickled herring fillet served with onions, apples and sour cream; often enjoyed with bread or potatoes at lakeside spots.
Fresh fish sandwich with local catches like herring or salmon, a staple at lakeside stands and markets.
Pear, beans and bacon — a classic North German dish often featured in rustic eateries during harvest season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regional market with fresh produce, dairy, bread and regional specialties; great for sampling local foods.
Seasonal market offering fish stands, farm products and quick bites in a charming town square.
Seasonal stalls along Dieksee offering Fischbrötchen and light snacks with lake views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use greetings like Guten Tag or Moin, and maintain polite and reserved manners in public spaces.
Be punctual for appointments; queues and orderly service are common in shops and restaurants.
Safety
Tipping in Malente
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping is customary but not obligatory. Round up the bill or leave about 5-10% for good service.
Cash is widely accepted, and many places also accept debit cards (EC Karten) and contactless payments; some smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, ideal for lake activities and outdoor markets. Expect pleasant, warm weather with occasional rain and mosquitoes near water.
Vibrant foliage and harvest markets; cooler days with fresh air. Great for photography and scenic drives.
Snow is possible but not guaranteed; the landscape becomes tranquil and cozy in towns, with indoor cultural options.
Blooming forests and gardens; mild temperatures make hiking and cycling especially enjoyable.
Malente at Night
Hiking in Malente
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic walking route around Dieksee with easy grades and lakeside views.
Network of trails through pine and beech forests with several viewpoints.
Boardwalks and boardwalk loops through a protected wetland with birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Malente by plane.
Major international gateway with frequent connections; about a couple hours drive from Malente.
Regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; closer but smaller than HAM.
Small regional airport serving mainly charter and general aviation; convenient for a quick hop.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Young families and multi-generational visitors frequently visit for lakeside activities and gentle hikes.
A substantial portion of residents and visitors enjoy the calm countryside and accessible nature trails.
Seasonal visitors from Germany and neighboring countries come for the lakes, markets and day trips to Eutin and Plön.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Common on the lakes with local clubs and rental boats; a staple of the region.
Scenic routes around the lakes and through forests suit all levels.
Forest trails and lookout points in the Holsteinische Schweiz attract hikers year-round.
Active along the lake shores with small club sessions in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malente.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian dishes or can modify plates. Look for Kartoffeln, Gemüse and dairy-based options; vegan choices may require提前 notice.