With any luck if you’re visiting the northern town of Schönkirchen you won’t be as confused as I was. I knew that Schönkirchen was located in the Plön District, but what I didn’t know was the place was part of a bigger town made up of two other villages.
Would you look at that, three for the bargain basement price of one.
Schönkirchen itself is your average North German town with thatched roof cottages, only a stone’s throw from the Baltic Sea. Ahh, the salt air will do you good while you’re celebrating Sunday Services outdoors.
Services are also held in Schönkirchen’s Marienkirche, originally built back in the 1200s. Today its simple interior with its white walls and blue pews make it just as pretty on the inside as its outside.
There are three other stunning buildings that you must see while you’re here. The Gildehaus is one; having been around since 1560. Today it’s used for all sorts of events — most notably the Guild Festival (in May) that’s been going on for more than 450 years.
The Hörn-Huus is almost as old — and a lovely little cottage that makes a wonderful wedding venue. Over at the Schmidt-Haus you can not only see what life in the 19th century was like, but also enjoy the Classical & Jazz concerts. It’s also the venue for Schönkirchen’s Easter, Autumn, and Christmas Markets.
As for the other two towns you’ll find a wonderful Museum Garden at the Artists’ House, home to some 200 different plant species. And the Naturlehrpfad and Streuobstwiesen are great for a day or two of family fun.
If it’s hiking you want, head to nearby Mönkeberg. The Fördewanderweg runs along the Kiel Fjord passing along the Navy Ammo Depot. Schönkirchen’s Sculpture Trail is also a picturesque walk — remember to look up ’cause one of the sculptures can be found in a tree.
It doesn’t matter that I was originally confused about the town of Schönkirchen — I do know a pretty town and good time when I experience it.
