3 min read
18.07.2025

From Coast to Coast

The most beautiful experiences along the Kiel Canal

Cargo ships and a barge navigate a wide canal surrounded by green fields and trees, with a small village visible in the background.

Looking to cross Schleswig-Holstein from one end to the other? There’s no better way than following one of the world’s busiest waterways. The Kiel Canal—also called “NOK”—not only connects the North Sea with the Baltic but also blends maritime charm with North German zest for life. From scenic cycling paths along the locks to spectacular ship-spotting opportunities, this route offers an authentic perspective of Schleswig-Holstein.

Table of Content

Kiel-Holtenau – Where It All Begins
Cycling adventures alongside the canal
A historic highlight in Rendsburg
Ship watching in Sehestedt
Gateway to the North Sea
A way of life between the seas

Kiel-Holtenau – Where It All Begins

The canal begins right at the Baltic Sea in Kiel-Holtenau. This is where technology comes to life: massive container ships pass through the impressive lock system, which has also become a popular spot for walkers and photographers.
Tip: Enjoy the best view at the nearby Schleusenpark with a coffee in hand as you marvel at the passing ships up close.

Cycling adventures alongside the canal

The Kiel Canal is a paradise for cyclists. A well-developed 98-kilometer path runs alongside the entire canal. With barely any elevation and constant views of the water, the route offers a leisurely yet scenic ride across eight stages. Highlights between Rendsburg and Brunsbüttel include the towering Hochdonn railway bridge and charming, free-of-charge canal ferries.

A historic highlight in Rendsburg

Rendsburg is home to a true feat of engineering: the transporter bridge that swings beneath the town’s elevated railway bridge is one of a kind in Germany. This blend of technology and over 100 years of history makes Rendsburg a perfect day trip along the canal. Tip: Don’t miss a stroll through the old town or a visit to the Rendsburg Art Museum.

Aerial view of a large steel bridge over a river, with a ferry passing underneath, surrounded by green fields and residential areas.

Ship watching in Sehestedt

The quaint village of Sehestedt is a hidden gem for those seeking peace and quiet. The canal runs right through the heart of the village, allowing you to watch enormous container ships pass by practically from your garden gate. Visitors and passersby can enjoy local snacks and drinks with a maritime view at the KanalTreff and Imbiss Sehestedt.

Gateway to the North Sea

At the western end of the canal lies Brunsbüttel, a port and industrial town where the canal flows into the Elbe River, marking the transition to the rugged North Sea coast. The new large lock system here is a marvel of modern hydraulic engineering. The SchleusenInfoZentrum provides fascinating insights into Europe’s largest waterway construction project, and a guided tour is a must for any tech enthusiast.

A way of life between the seas

Whether it’s extraordinary engineering, peaceful landscapes, or the awe of watching massive ships pass by— the Kiel Canal brings together everything that makes Schleswig-Holstein so unique. Here, people, water, and history meet in a slow-paced, authentic setting that always welcomes a friendly chat.

Spending time along the canal means experiencing more than just the magic of maritime traffic—it’s about embracing a distinctive lifestyle between the North and Baltic Seas. Perhaps you’ll even discover your own favorite spot to relax, explore, or maybe even settle down—right on the banks of the NOK.