Perched on the western shore of the Plauer See, Plau am See is an attractive town in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. It’s an ideal base for enjoying the on and off-water recreational pursuits that the lake offers and the historic castle tower that is now a cultural heritage museum.
Things to do in Plau am See
Rent a bike to cycle the circular path that surrounds the Plauer See, which is one of the largest lakes in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. In addition to sailing, swimming and kayaking, it’s also possible to fish for pike, perch and carp. Elevated views are on offer from the lookout tower of the Nordufer Plauer See nature reserve, which offers regular sightings of kingfishers, cranes and white-tailed eagles.
All that remains of the town’s 15th-century fortifications is a beautifully restored castle tower, which has been transformed into the Burgmuseum Plau. Its adjacent barn features an exhibition on crafts and industries of the 19th century, with a focus on the work of Dr. Ernest Alban. In addition to a replica of his high-pressure steam engine, there are working examples of a vintage printing press and a shoe nailing machine.
South of Plau am See is Barefoot Park, which encompasses a one-kilometre-long nature trail that has been designed as a sensory route. It traverses a scenic landscape that was formed during the last Ice Age and encompasses floor coverings that include sand, mud, glass and moor. Information stations are dotted throughout the park detailing the native flora and fauna.
Getting around Plau am See
Plau am See is just over an hour’s drive from Rostock and two hours from Berlin and Berlin Brandenburg Airport Willy Brandt. Regular trains connect to the Plau am See railway station and the town is small enough to explore on foot.