Maasholm sits where the Schlei flows into the Baltic, an old fishing village with a harbour and thatched houses. Right next to it lies the Wormshöfter Noor, a shallow, almost mirror-smooth lagoon that feels like an inland lake. This is exactly where you learn water sports in complete calm, sheltered, shallow and with plenty of room. And anyone after more wind and a bit of swell will find both right next door on the open Baltic side.
| Spot | Mouth of the Schlei, Wormshöfter Noor and Baltic side near Maasholm (Schleswig-Holstein) |
| Wind | Noor: mainly west to northwest; Baltic side: onshore with northeast to southeast |
| Water | Shallow lagoon (Noor) for learning, plus the open Baltic side with more wind and chop to small waves |
| Level | Beginner in the sheltered Noor, advanced on the Baltic side |
| Sports | Kitesurfing, windsurfing, kite foiling, wing foiling, SUP |
| Infrastructure | Parking about 50 m from the shore, grass to rig on, showers and toilets, surf school in the village |
| Nature protection | The large Oehe-Schleimünde bird reserve is right next door, observe protection zones and landing bans (e.g. Stexwiger Enge) without fail |
The lagoon for learning
The Wormshöfter Noor feels like an inland lake: a large standing area, barely any swell, often mirror-smooth water. A learning spot can hardly be safer, if you fall, you stand. The parking is only about 50 metres from the shore, plus grass to rig on, showers and toilets, a worry-free spot to get started. Anyone who already rides confidently switches to the open Baltic side, where there is more wind and chop to small waves.
Our impression: When someone asks us where to learn to ride on the Schlei, we say Maasholm. The Noor is so sheltered and shallow that nervousness never even sets in, and the fishing village all around is simply beautiful.
Bird protection comes first
Right next to the spot lies the large Oehe-Schleimünde bird reserve with the Lotseninsel. There are clear protection zones and landing bans, for example at the Stexwiger Enge. At the Maasholm nature centre there is a map showing the areas for water sports. Please stick to it, and this special spot will be preserved.
Getting there and the school
You reach Maasholm via the Schwansen peninsula, with parking available at the Noor. There is a surf school in the village, plus campsites around the Schlei. It pairs nicely with a visit to the nature centre. Whether the wind fits today is shown by our wind check.
Maasholm is the quiet learning gem at the mouth of the Schlei. You will find more spots in our spot overview.