Discover Olpenitz: Water and Maritime History

Olpenitz combines activities on and around the water with cycling tours and maritime history. When planning your visit, keep the practical details in mind: the swimming cove can only be reached on foot or by bicycle, SUP board rentals depend on the season and weather, and you should check the current timetable for boat trips.

Swimming Cove and Stand-Up Paddling

The swimming cove at the OstseeResort Olpenitz slopes gently and is suitable for families with children and relaxing days at the beach. It is used for walking, building sandcastles, stand-up paddling and sports classes. Access is only possible on foot or by bicycle, so take this into account when planning your day.

At the OstseeResort Olpenitz, you can rent SUP boards to explore independently. Reservations can be made online or on site. As rentals depend on the season and weather, check availability in advance. If you would first like to try stand-up paddling, a beginner’s course covers technique and safety. No prior experience is required, but you must be able to swim. Check the course dates before your trip, too.

Canoeing, Fishing and Boat Trips

A canoe launch next to the Schleimünde campsite in Olpenitz-Dorf provides access to the Schlei. Fishing trips depart from the home port at OstseeResort Port Olpenitz at the mouth of the Schlei and head out onto the Baltic Sea and the Schlei. If you are planning a trip, check availability with the provider before you travel.

The Schlei Princess excursion boat sails from Kappeln via Maasholm to the Schleimünde pilot island. The trip includes a 30-minute shore visit there. Check the current timetable before your trip so you can plan around the stops.

Cycling Tours and Activities on Land

The 53.1-kilometre “Runde von Schönhagen” cycling loop starts and ends at the OstseeResort Olpenitz. It runs mainly along paved paths and links Kappeln’s museum harbour and port, Gut Buckhagen, cycle paths along the Schlei, Kronsgaard Beach, the fishing village of Maasholm and the Schlei Bridge in Kappeln. With its stated distance, it is a specific option for a longer cycling trip. The “Steilküste Schönhagen” hike also starts in Olpenitz.

At the OstseeResort Olpenitz, Adventure Golf features 18 maritime and region-themed obstacles. Pit Pat Olpenitz is an outdoor obstacle billiards game right by the Baltic Sea, with 18 tables. Check the opening details for both attractions before visiting.

Maritime History and Nature

The Olpenitz naval base was built between 1959 and 1964. To do so, part of the Schleinoor was separated from the Schlei and connected to the Baltic Sea by a new entrance. Near Olpenitz, beside the Schlei dam, lies the “Schleimündung” nature reserve; it cannot be accessed from the OstseeResort Olpenitz.

The Schleimünde lighthouse is also nearby. Since 1871, it has served ships as a leading and navigational light for the entrance from the Baltic Sea into the Schlei estuary. Harbour porpoises are also occasionally spotted at the OstseeResort Olpenitz.

Gut Olpenitz

Gut Olpenitz includes a manor house dating from 1618. The estate is also available as a venue for weddings and events. Alongside water-based activities and excursions, it offers a cultural point of interest to include in your travel plans.

For the broader travel overview: Kappeln.