In Mönkhagen, architectural and local history span two widely separated periods: the manor house dates from the 19th century, while the first recorded mention of the village goes back to the Middle Ages.
Mönkhagen Manor House
The manor house was completed around 1870 under Ernst August Becker and is considered an example of early Historicism. Its history also includes a difficult period: the building had fallen into serious disrepair and was close to being demolished before it was restored. Historical features were preserved during the restoration. The period in which it was built, its architectural style and its preservation can thus be considered distinct aspects of the house’s history.
If you visit, do not enter the manor house grounds without permission.
The Place Name and Early History
The name Mönkhagen is associated with monks. The village was first documented in 1221. It may at one time have belonged to Reinfeld Cistercian Monastery. This possible connection is part of the village’s history, as is the early medieval record; the manor house looks to a much later period.
Historic Places in the Wider Destination of Stormarn
The wider destination of Stormarn also has buildings with varied histories and present-day functions. Ahrensburg Castle was completed in 1585 and has served continuously as a museum since 1955. Reinbek Castle in Stormarn was built between 1572 and 1576 in the Dutch Renaissance style, was extensively restored and serves as a cultural and communications centre in Reinbek. Jersbek Estate dates from the 16th century and has been farmed ever since; its 18th-century Baroque garden is open to visitors.
Nature and Trails in Stormarn
Stormarn offers different attractions for nature lovers than its architectural heritage. Hahnheide is Stormarn’s largest nature reserve and offers extensive hiking opportunities. Brenner Moor is Schleswig-Holstein’s largest inland salt marsh. There is a section with a wooden boardwalk and a trail with ten observation points.
The “Around Herrenteich” nature trail lies beside Herrenteich in Reinfeld: the circular route is four kilometres long and has 16 stops right on the edge of the “Upper Herrenteich” nature reserve. There are two water terraces and additional seating along the lakeside promenade; a 3.6-kilometre circular route goes around Lower Herrenteich. The two stated circular routes differ only slightly in length but have different focuses: one has stops along the edge of the nature reserve, while the other loops around the lower pond.
Cycling and Puzzles in Stormarn
Stormarn offers more than 20 circular cycling routes as well as BahnRadWege cycle paths along the tracks of three former railway lines. The “Postzugraub auf der Staatsbahntrasse” crime trail on BahnRadWeg B offers a specific combination of cycling and puzzles: the route combines cycling with a fictional investigation into a historical mail train robbery. The region’s offerings therefore differ not only in their routes but also in how they invite visitors to explore the landscape—from circular cycling routes to a tour with a mystery to solve.
Discover more destinations: Ahrensburg, Witzhave, Brunsbek, Badendorf, Großhansdorf, Hammoor, Grabau, Barsbüttel.
See the overview of the wider destination: Stormarn.
