Located on an isthmus surrounded by lakes, Plön is a historic town in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein. It was granted town rights in 1236 and flourished in the 16th century as a duchy capital. In 1761, Plön came under Danish rule and remained so until the 1864 Second Schleswig War when it became part of the Kingdom of Prussia.
Things to do in Plön
Elevated views across Lake Plön are on offer from Schloss Plön, which is one of the largest castles in Schleswig-Holstein. Constructed during the 17th-century Thirty Years War, it has served as a duchy residence and a military cadet school throughout its history. Be sure to visit the small museum detailing the castle’s past.
In the north of Plön is the Parnaß-Turm, an observation tower erected in 1888 to attract tourists. Rising 20 metres in height, it features a stone plinth with a lattice tower from where you can enjoy sweeping views across the surrounding lakes. On one side of the stone base is a bas-relief of Emperor William I and an Iron Cross with Schleswig-Holstein’s coat of arms.
From Plön, follow the walking trail that hugs the shores of Lake Plön and features a model creation of our solar system. Canoes are available for rent if you want to explore the lake from the water or you can join a boat cruise around the “Five Lakes” - Dieksee, Langensee, Behlersee, Höftsee and Edebergsee. Swimming can be enjoyed from the sandy Prinzenbad.
Getting around Plön
Plön is around 45 minutes’ drive from Lübeck and Lübeck Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Plön railway station and buses travel through the district. The centre of Plön can easily be explored on foot.