Centred around the city of Neubrandenburg, Mecklenburgische Seenplatte is a sprawling district in the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. It is named after the 1,117 natural lakes that dominate the area, making it one of the country’s most popular destinations for water sports. Historic manor houses, centuries-old castles and open-air museums dot the scenic countryside.
Things to do in Mecklenburg Lake District
In the small town of Penzlin is the Old Castle, a 16th-century residence that houses the Museum of Magic and Witchcraft. Join a guided tour to learn about the castle’s fascinating past and see the unique witch dungeons and torture chambers. On the grounds are a witch-themed playground and a herb garden, from where there are picturesque views of the 13th-century Church of St. Mary.
Overlooking Lake Kummerow is Schloss Kummerow, a historically significant Baroque palace housing an impressive photography collection. It was completed in 1730 and was once closely linked to the Maltzahm family, who served as feudal lords in Mecklenburg and Pomerania. Today, its beautifully renovated spaces showcase works by international photographers created since the turn of the millennium.
Surrounded by lakes is the Agroneum Alt Schwerin, an open-air museum that celebrates the agricultural history of Mecklenburg. It comprises a blacksmithy, a rope factory and a cartwright’s workshop, as well as a beautifully preserved Dutch windmill. You can wander between the 19th-century farm workers’ cottages and the single-room school while getting up close to vintage ploughs, tractors and harvesters.
Getting around Mecklenburg Lake District
Mecklenburgische Seenplatte is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Rostock and two hours from Berlin. Berlin Brandenburg Airport is 2.5 hours away and has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to major towns and cities throughout Mecklenburgische Seenplatte while buses serve smaller destinations.