Top 20 Lakes in the Ortenaukreis
Best lakes in the Ortenaukreis offer diverse natural features within Germany's Black Forest region. The area is characterized by its varied landscape, including forests, valleys, and several lakes. These natural bodies of water provide opportunities for recreation and connection with the outdoors. The Ortenaukreis is known for its accessible natural spaces, making it a destination for outdoor activities.
Best lakes in the Ortenaukreis
- The most popular lakes is Mummelsee, a lake known for its mythical legends. It is known for its mythical legends and a circular hiking trail.
- Another must-see spot is View of Lake Mummelsee from the Hornisgrinde, a viewpoint. This viewpoint offers panoramic vistas of the Mummelsee and surrounding landscape.
- Visitors also love Haslach forest lake and restaurant, a lake with a restaurant. It features a restaurant and mini-golf, providing recreational options for visitors.
- Ortenaukreis is known for bathing lakes, natural swimming pools, and reservoirs. These include natural swimming pools, bathing lakes, and reservoirs, offering diverse experiences for recreation.
- The lakes in the Ortenaukreis are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4700 upvotes and over 2900 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Mummelsee
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Even today, the mermaids come to visit village evenings. Of course only when accompanied by her strict father, the Mummelsee king.
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View of the Rhine Valley from Hornisgrinde
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View of Lake Mummelsee from the Hornisgrinde
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Mummelsee Mermaid Statue
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Berghotel Mummelsee
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Restaurant. Boats are also rented here. Numerous parking spaces available.
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Taubergießen Floodplain
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Haslach forest lake and restaurant
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Glashütte Reservoir
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View of the Hornisgrinde from the Mummelsee
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Oberachern Forest Lake
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Tips from the Community
An absolute natural idyll. Absolutely beautiful!!
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There is good parking at the Waldsee car park. A ten-minute walk takes you to the lake where you will be greeted by the many ducks.
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Since the end of the 16th century, a glassworks has stood here, which gave the Lauf district with its idyllic reservoir its name. In addition to the raw materials of quartz sand and potash, large quantities of firewood were needed to produce glass for the operation of the smelting furnaces and to extract the potash. All of this was available in abundance here.
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The bronze MUMMELSEENIXE sits alone on the rock, not far from the shore. She turns her back to the walker on the shore and looks out over the water. A plaque on the shore provides brief information about the legendary/mythical origin of the superstition that was widespread in earlier times about the existence of witches, fairies, mermaids (and similar mythical figures). The plaque then surprisingly contains a reference to the biblical letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth with an excerpt from the "Song of Songs".
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Beautiful little lake in an idyllic location. Watching the turtles sunbathe is very interesting.
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just beautiful here. It is worth cycling here (for nature lovers).
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Spotted turtles and koi in the forest lake for the first time today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular lakes for swimming and recreation in the Ortenaukreis?
The Ortenaukreis offers several excellent lakes for swimming and recreation. The Mummelsee is popular for its mythical legends and a circular path. For dedicated swimming, consider the Gifizsee in Offenburg, known for its clear water and amenities like sunbathing lawns and a beach area. The Naturbad Sulz in Lahr provides a unique chemical-free swimming experience in a natural setting, while the Riedsee near Achern is also a good option, especially for families.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Ortenaukreis?
Yes, many lakes in the Ortenaukreis are family-friendly. The Naturbad Sulz in Lahr features dedicated swimming zones for toddlers and children, along with various play elements. The Riedsee near Achern also has a playground and DLRG supervision on busy days. The Mummelsee and Haslach forest lake and restaurant are also categorized as family-friendly, offering amenities and activities suitable for all ages.
Which lakes offer dining options or cafes?
You can find dining options at several lakes. The Haslach forest lake and restaurant features a restaurant and mini-golf. Near the Mummelsee, you'll find the Berghotel Mummelsee, which includes a restaurant and cafe. The Naturbad Sulz also has a catered terrace for visitors.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes in the Ortenaukreis are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You can expect to see dense forests, especially around the Mummelsee and Oberachern Forest Lake. The Naturbad Sulz is nestled in the idyllic Sulzbach Valley, surrounded by forests and meadows. The Taubergießen Floodplain, which includes a lake, offers unique riparian forests and diverse aquatic life.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in Ortenaukreis?
Yes, many lakes offer excellent hiking opportunities. The Mummelsee has a popular circular hiking trail. The Naturbad Sulz is a starting point for well-marked hiking trails, including a 4.5-kilometer 'Wasserpfad' (water path). You can also find various running trails in the region, some of which may pass by lakes. Explore more options on the Running Trails in the Ortenaukreis guide.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes, besides swimming and hiking?
Beyond swimming and hiking, the Ortenaukreis offers various outdoor activities near its lakes. You can enjoy boat rides at Gifizsee. The region is also popular for cycling, with options for gravel biking and road cycling, with routes often passing by scenic water bodies. Some lakes, like Haslach forest lake, even offer mini-golf.
Are there any lakes with historical or mythical significance?
The Mummelsee is particularly known for its mythical legends, with tales of mermaids and a lake king. Visitors can even see the Mummelsee Mermaid Statue, adding to its enchanting atmosphere.
What facilities are typically available at the lakes in Ortenaukreis?
Facilities vary by lake. Gifizsee offers sunbathing lawns, a public barbecue area, public toilets, and a beach area with a kiosk, water slide, and sports courts. Naturbad Sulz provides changing rooms, showers, and a catered terrace. The Riedsee has improved building facilities, a sun sail for the playground, and enlarged bicycle parking. Many lakes, like Haslach forest lake, also offer parking.
Are there any 'hidden gem' lakes in the Ortenaukreis for a quieter experience?
For a more tranquil experience away from the main crowds, consider lakes like Pappelwald Lake near Berghaupten or Vältinschollensee (also known as Meißenheimer gravel pit). These are known for good water quality and offer a quieter, more 'insider tip' atmosphere for swimming and relaxation.
What do visitors appreciate most about the lakes in the Ortenaukreis?
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The clear water and natural surroundings of lakes like Gifizsee create a vacation-like atmosphere. The unique, chemical-free swimming experience at Naturbad Sulz is highly valued. Many also enjoy the well-maintained circular paths, the family-friendly amenities, and the combination of water activities with nearby hiking trails.
Is there a lake that is wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Mummelsee is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing a wider range of visitors to enjoy its beauty and the surrounding area.
Are there any reservoirs in the Ortenaukreis?
Yes, the Ortenaukreis features reservoirs that are also popular. Examples include the Glashütte Reservoir, known for its unique outwardly curved dam wall, and the Laufbach Reservoir, both offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.
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