Dannauer See und Hohensasel und Umgebung, protected area in the European Union defined by the habitats directive in Schleswig-Holstein, Germany
The Dannauer See and its surroundings form a protected area of about 40 hectares where a shallow lake is surrounded by reed beds, wet meadows, and wooded hills. An hour-long walking trail circles the lake from the village of Dannau, passing old hedgerows, grasslands, and a wooden viewing platform overlooking the water.
The lake formed at the end of the last ice age when ice blocks buried underground melted, causing the land to sink and collect water in a round basin shape. Human artifacts found nearby suggest people used the area long ago.
The lake sits in a landscape valued by people for quiet time and nature watching, with walking paths and observation points showing how locals and visitors use the area. These routes reflect how the community connects with the natural surroundings.
Access to the area is on foot via well-marked walking trails open year-round. Summer offers shade from trees and shrubs, while wet sections require sturdy footwear and weatherproof clothing is recommended.
The area harbors a remarkable population of fire-bellied toads whose gentle croaking can be heard in spring and early summer. These rare amphibians and occasional visits from white-tailed eagles make the area a place where observers may encounter surprising wildlife.
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