Can you actually swim in the lakes in Neustrelitz?
Yes, you can swim in several lakes around Neustrelitz. The main official swimming area is the Badeanstalt at Glambecker See, which is supervised, has facilities, and offers excellent water quality. Other popular swimming spots include lakes like Großer Fürstenseer See, Langer See, and Domjüchsee. However, swimming in the Zierker See right by the town is not recommended as it is very shallow and muddy.
Which is the main beach in Neustrelitz?
The primary and most popular swimming spot is the 'Badeanstalt' located at Glambecker See. It's a lido-style beach with sandy areas, clear water that has been awarded for its quality, and amenities like changing rooms, toilets, and a kiosk. It's only a short distance from the city center.
Is Neustrelitz a good destination for a family beach holiday?
Neustrelitz is an excellent destination for a family holiday centered around lakes. The official swimming areas, especially at Glambecker See, are family-friendly with calm, shallow entries, no dangerous waves or jellyfish, and lifeguards on duty during the season. The surrounding nature, playgrounds, and family-oriented attractions like the Tiergarten (zoo) and Slawendorf (Slavic village) make it a great choice for those with children.
How does a lake holiday in Neustrelitz compare to the Baltic Sea (Ostsee)?
A holiday in Neustrelitz and the Mecklenburg Lake District offers a quieter, more nature-focused experience compared to the often crowded Baltic Sea coast. The lakes provide calm, fresh water ideal for swimming and paddling without waves or salt. While the Baltic Sea has vast sandy beaches and a maritime flair, the Lake District is characterized by thousands of interconnected lakes, dense forests, and a more tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation, boating, and escaping crowds.
Are there accommodations with direct lake access in Neustrelitz?
Yes, there are several accommodation options with direct lake views or access. These range from hotels and guesthouses located near the Zierker See harbor to holiday homes and campsites situated on the shores of other nearby lakes. Options like the 'slube am Stadthafen' offer unique stays right at the harbor, while various holiday rentals ('Ferienwohnungen') are available a short walk from swimming spots.
What is the water quality like in the Neustrelitz lakes?
The water quality in the swimming lakes around Neustrelitz is generally rated as excellent. The Badeanstalt at Glambecker See has been recognized with the 'Blue Flag' award for its high environmental and quality standards. Official bodies regularly monitor the water quality of designated swimming spots. Occasionally, warnings for blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can occur in late summer during hot periods, but official information is readily available.
Are there any beaches or swimming areas where dogs are allowed?
While the main Badeanstalt at Glambecker See does not permit dogs, there are designated dog-friendly swimming spots (Hundestrände) in the wider Mecklenburg Lake District. For example, there are spots at lakes near Mirow and Waren (Müritz). It's always best to look for local signage indicating where dogs are welcome to swim.
Why can't you swim in the Zierker See?
Swimming in the Zierker See, the lake directly adjacent to the Neustrelitz city harbor, is not advised because it is extremely shallow (averaging only 1.6 meters deep) and has a very muddy bottom. Due to historical nutrient input, its water quality is not suitable for bathing, and the former swimming area was closed decades ago. It is, however, very popular for boating and enjoying the views from the shore.
What is there to do besides swimming at the lakes?
The lakes are a hub for numerous activities beyond swimming. The interconnected waterways are perfect for paddling, canoeing, and boating, with rentals widely available. The surrounding area, including the Müritz National Park, offers extensive networks of cycling and hiking trails. You can also enjoy fishing, visit the historic Neustrelitz Palace Garden, or explore the unique harbor area.
Are the swimming spots free to access?
Access varies. The main Badeanstalt at Glambecker See charges a small entrance fee during its opening season, which covers the costs for lifeguards and maintenance of the facilities. However, there are many other natural, unsupervised swimming spots ('wilde Badestellen') around the numerous lakes that are free to access, though they lack amenities.
What's the best way to get to the different lakes from Neustrelitz?
The Glambecker See is close enough to the city center to be reached on foot or by a short bike ride. For exploring other lakes in the region, such as those within the Müritz National Park, cycling is a very popular option with many designated trails. For more distant lakes or for transporting gear, a car is recommended. The local bus network can also connect you to some of the surrounding villages.
Are there any FKK / naturist beaches near Neustrelitz?
Yes, FKK (Freikörperkultur), or naturism, is common in the Mecklenburg Lake District. While not typically designated at the main family-oriented lidos, many natural swimming spots (Badestellen) have areas where FKK is accepted and practiced. For instance, the beautiful Fürstenseer See is known to be popular with naturists.
