Mustin’s Church of St. Mary Magdalene combines a building from the early 13th century with works of art from several later centuries. Nearby, the Garrenseerinne–Salemer Moor Route offers another option for an outing: a moderate 12.3-kilometre circular hike through moorland and beech forest, passing several lakes.
Church of St. Mary Magdalene: Architecture and Furnishings
The church is a transitional Romanesque-Gothic church from the early 13th century, built in the tradition of East Holstein’s fieldstone churches. Its furnishings include Gothic wall paintings, a wooden crucifixion group from the late 15th century, and remains of an altarpiece from around 1680. Several periods of origin thus come together in this historic building: the wall paintings and crucifixion group represent Gothic art, while the altarpiece remains add a distinctly later layer. Those interested in church architecture and art history can view the building’s form and furnishings as distinct historical layers.
The Church of St. Mary Magdalene is listed as a protected ensemble in the published state heritage register; an update to the document is planned. In addition to the church and its furnishings, the ensemble includes the churchyard, graves dating from 1870 or earlier, a ring of lime trees, and a granite retaining wall. The protected ensemble therefore also encompasses the churchyard and other parts of the site, not just the church building.
A Moderate Circular Hike Nearby
The Garrenseerinne–Salemer Moor Route offers a different kind of outing. This 12.3-kilometre circular hike starts and ends at a trailhead between Ziethen and Mustin. Along the way, it passes through moorland and beech forest and by several lakes. The route length and moderate rating provide practical guidance for choosing a hike; the landscape offers a contrast to the church’s cultural and historical focus. If you plan to hike the route, check current access conditions and seasonal suitability in advance, as both may vary.
In the broader destination of the Duchy of Lauenburg
For a broader regional perspective, take a look at the Duchy of Lauenburg. The Duchy of Lauenburg district is 26 percent forested and includes 48 lakes. The district is also home to the Sachsenwald, the largest contiguous forest area in Schleswig-Holstein. The Lauenburg Lakes Nature Park lies at the heart of the duchy. Its territory, approximately 35 by 17 kilometres in size, provides habitats for kingfishers, white-tailed eagles, cranes, and other species. These landscape features describe the broader destination of the Duchy of Lauenburg.
Visitors to the nature park can hike, cycle, canoe, and swim in the forest lakes. Four signposted cycling routes add to the activities on offer. Hiking trails, observation towers, nature trails, and rest areas help visitors find their way around. Guided excursions with experts focus on the district’s wildlife, plant life, and cultural history. The nature park has been designated as a protected area for visitors to experience since 1960. Check the current program if you are planning an excursion for a specific date.
The Duchy of Lauenburg also offers a regional rail reference point: Büchen junction station connects the district to the long-distance rail network via the Hamburg–Schwerin–Berlin and Lübeck–Lüneburg lines. Check current timetables separately when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: Seedorf, Mölln, Güster, Brunstorf, Behlendorf, Roseburg, Müssen, Groß Sarau
Return to the broader travel guide: Duchy of Lauenburg.
