Top 20 Lakes around Alpirsbach
Best lakes around Alpirsbach are situated in the Black Forest, providing varied natural settings and recreational opportunities. The area features forested valleys and picturesque water bodies, offering a range of experiences for visitors. From tranquil shores to ecologically significant sites, the lakes around Alpirsbach are accessible for exploration. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating natural landscapes.
Best lakes around Alpirsbach
- The most popular lakes is Glaswaldsee, a lake where swimming is permitted, making it a popular destination in summer. Its calm waters reflect the surrounding trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Sankenbach, a natural monument with a nearby waterfall. It features a well-equipped barbecue area and offers opportunities for relaxation by the water.
- Visitors also love Ellbach Lake, a unique natural monument surrounded by a raised bog. This lake is home to rare plant and animal species, making it an important biotope.
- Alpirsbach is known for natural lakes, ecologically significant bogs, and swimming lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, each with distinct features.
- The lakes around Alpirsbach are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3300 upvotes and over 2000 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Lake Sankenbach
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Ellbach Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Glaswaldsee
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Descent to Ellbachsee
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Alpirsbach.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Alpirsbach
Three Valleys Cycle Path – Cycle across the Black Forest in Germany
The Eastern Path of the Black Forest Association
Barrier-free hikes in the Black Forest National Park
Gentle cycling & fine dining – the Black Forest for connoisseurs
Trekking Black Forest 7-day tour from Alpirsbach to Biberach
Trekking Schwarzwald 3-day tour to Camps Loßburg and Kniebis
Ride legendary training passes in the Black Forest
Handbike-Touren im Schwarzwald
Hiking around Alpirsbach
Cycling around Alpirsbach
Other adventures around Alpirsbach
Tips from the Community
The silted-up, originally almost circular lake now resembles a three-fingered hand. The south-southwest-facing "fingers" are between 80 and 110 meters long, and the northern "palm" has a diameter of approximately 40 meters. The body of water, mostly covered by floating vegetation, has a maximum diameter of just under 150 meters. Like all cirque lakes, the Ellbachsee was formed by glaciers. The last deepening of the lake basin occurred during the Würm glaciation, which ended in the Black Forest about 10,000 years ago. The Ellbachsee and its surroundings are designated as a natural monument (7.1 hectares), a geotope, and a protected forest. Source: Wikipedia
10
0
The Ellbachsee in the municipality of Baiersbronn was designated as an extensive natural monument in 1937. The protected area covers a total area of approximately 7.1 hectares. The water area is surrounded by a Bultenmoor; it forms an independent biotope for many endangered animal and plant species. Because of its high sensitivity to being stepped on, you should avoid walking on it so that this habitat is not destroyed. Compared to the other karst lakes in the Black Forest, the Ellbachsee is not particularly deep at 1 to 2 meters. Its length is approximately 190 meters and its width is approximately 40 meters. At just 0.34 hectares, the open water area is the smallest of the karst lakes in the northern Black Forest. It has now become increasingly silted up, which is reflected in a silted area of 1.16 hectares. Some downy birch trees have already settled on the peat island floating on it. The lake has a narrow outlet and breaks through the moraine. It flows into the Guten Ellbach, which flows into the Murg in Baiersbronn Mitteltal.
7
0
The Ellbachsee is home to a floating peat island, elves and water spirits 🧚♀️🧚♂️. This is probably one of the reasons why it is designated as a natural monument worthy of protection.
9
0
The lake was created around 10,000 years ago when a glacier melted, but disappeared again 3,000 years ago. In 1980/81 a natural dam was created here again. This has created a beautiful leisure and nature reserve where you can enjoy taking a longer break. Nice seating on the drainage side and a large barbecue area by the waterfall.
11
1
From the vantage point on the lake, walk down to the lake and simply enjoy this idyll. It has many benches to take a nice break by far.
11
1
The Sankenbachsee is a former karst lake southwest of Baiersbronn. It silted up around 3,000 years ago and could be artificially dammed up again because it lies below the Sankenbach waterfalls and is flowed through by the Sankenbach. In the 1980s, a low barrage was built at the outflow of the Sankenbach to protect the lake from silting up. Source: Wikipedia
15
1
Big spacious cabin. Very inviting to rest. Was clean and tidy. Tables and benches in front of the hut and an intact fountain.
10
0
A very nice quiet lake where you can also have a nice picnic.
10
0
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Alpirsbach are most popular for visitors?
Among the most popular lakes are Glaswaldsee, known for swimming, and Lake Sankenbach, which features a waterfall and barbecue area. Visitors also highly appreciate Ellbach Lake for its unique natural monument status.
What makes Lake Sankenbach a unique destination?
Lake Sankenbach is notable for its picturesque setting in a valley and the impressive Sankenbach waterfall, which cascades 40 meters. You can even manually open a wooden sluice to control the water flow. It also offers a well-equipped barbecue area with rotating grates, tables, benches, and a drinking water fountain, making it ideal for relaxation and picnics.
What is special about Ellbach Lake?
Ellbach Lake is a unique natural monument characterized by a floating peat island and a surrounding raised bog. This area is a crucial biotope for endangered plant and animal species. It's particularly beautiful in late September and early October when the foliage changes color, creating a 'Canada feeling'.
Can I swim in any of the lakes near Alpirsbach?
Yes, swimming is permitted in Glaswaldsee, making it a popular spot during warmer months. The 'Silver Lake' (Silbersee) in Alpirsbach-Reinerzau is also a designated swimming lake.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Alpirsbach?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For easy walks, you can explore routes like the 'Glaswiesen and Glaswald Valley' loop. You can find more details and routes on the Easy hikes around Alpirsbach guide.
Are there family-friendly activities at the lakes?
Absolutely. Lake Sankenbach has a well-equipped barbecue area and the interactive Sankenbach waterfall, which is fun for all ages. Kinzig Lake is located near the Lossburg magic land, offering an enchanting experience with fairytale books along a boardwalk.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Alpirsbach?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late September and early October are particularly recommended for Ellbach Lake, when the autumn foliage creates stunning colors. Summer is ideal for swimming at Glaswaldsee and the 'Silver Lake'.
Are there barbecue facilities available at any of the lakes?
Yes, Lake Sankenbach features an excellent barbecue area at the foot of its waterfall, complete with three rotating grates, tables, benches, and a drinking water fountain. The Ellbachsee also has a large barbecue area near a waterfall.
Are there viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
Yes, the Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform offers fabulous views over the mountain ranges of the Northern Black Forest and Ellbach Lake. Many lakes, including Glaswaldsee, also provide serene spots with benches to enjoy the reflections on the water.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, you can enjoy running on trails like the 'Little Kinzig Reservoir' loop, or cycling on routes such as the 'Kinzig Valley Trail'. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Alpirsbach and Cycling around Alpirsbach guides.
Are there any lakes with unique natural features?
Yes, Ellbach Lake is known for its floating peat island and surrounding raised bog, which is a protected biotope. Lake Sankenbach is famous for its impressive waterfall and the ability to control its flow.
Are any of the lake areas wheelchair accessible?
The Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform is listed as wheelchair accessible, providing an opportunity to enjoy panoramic views over Ellbach Lake and the surrounding landscape.
Most popular routes around Alpirsbach
Most popular attractions around Alpirsbach
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Alpirsbach? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
