Top 20 Lakes around Oppenau
Best lakes around Oppenau are found within the surrounding Black Forest region, characterized by its dense forests and hilly terrain. This area features a variety of natural and glacial lakes, many formed during the last ice age. These lakes offer diverse natural features, from serene waters to unique geological formations. The region provides opportunities to explore these distinct aquatic environments.
Best lakes around Oppenau
- The most popular lakes is Wild lake, a lake that is incredibly romantically situated at 910 meters high and nearly twelve meters deep. It offers a wonderful atmosphere with undisturbed natural sounds and fewer crowds, making it a place to unwind.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Sankenbach, a lake that lies picturesquely in the valley and offers plenty of seating. Visitors can expect excellent facilities, including a barbecue area at the foot of waterfalls, making it suitable for outdoor gatherings.
- Visitors also love Ellbach Lake, a cirque lake that is part of a nature reserve. When the foliage changes color in late September to early October, it creates a distinct "Canada feeling," making it particularly special.
- Oppenau is known for its glacial lakes and cirque lakes. These include natural lakes nestled in valleys and those with unique geological origins, providing a variety of aquatic landscapes to see and explore.
- The lakes around Oppenau 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
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Mummelsee
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Even today, the nixies visit village evenings. Of course, only in the company of their strict father, the Mummelsee King.
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Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform
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View of the Rhine Valley from Hornisgrinde
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Ellbach Lake
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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
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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.
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Great view from the plateau at the Grindehütte into the Rhine Valley.
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Brilliant view and brilliant sunsets
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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.
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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.
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Beautiful view over the Rhine plain... Ideal for the sunset
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The way is definitely worth it. Unfortunately, it is currently quite crowded and you can hardly find a place to sit, but if that doesn't bother you, then just keep walking. The view when the weather is clear is magnificent.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes to visit around Oppenau?
Among the most cherished lakes in the region are Wild lake, known for its romantic and quiet atmosphere, and Lake Sankenbach, which offers excellent facilities including a barbecue area. Ellbach Lake is also highly regarded, especially for its stunning autumn colors.
Are there family-friendly lakes near Oppenau?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Lake Sankenbach is particularly well-suited with its ample seating and barbecue facilities at the foot of waterfalls. Mummelsee also offers family-friendly amenities and an art trail around the lake.
Which lakes offer the best views or viewpoints?
For spectacular vistas, visit the Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform, which provides fabulous panoramic views over the Northern Black Forest. Ellbach Lake itself is very scenic, especially when the foliage changes color in autumn, creating a 'Canada feeling'.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Oppenau?
The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late September to early October is particularly recommended for Ellbach Lake, when the changing foliage offers a distinct 'Canada feeling'. Summer months are ideal for swimming and outdoor activities at lakes like Buhlbachsee and Glaswaldsee.
Are there any lakes with unique natural features or legends?
Yes, Mummelsee is famous for its mystical ambiance and ancient legends of mermaids, dwarfs, and a king living in its waters. It's also one of the deepest and highest-located lakes in the Black Forest. Wild lake is known for its romantic setting and being part of the oldest spell forest of Baden-Württemberg.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous waterfall hikes, running trails, and mountain hikes around Oppenau that often pass by or lead to these beautiful lakes. Many lakes, like Buhlbachsee and Glaswaldsee, are also suitable for swimming, walking, or biking.
Are there opportunities for swimming in the lakes?
Yes, lakes like Buhlbachsee and Glaswaldsee are good options for a refreshing swim. Lake Sankenbach also offers a wonderful refreshment when it's hot, so remember to bring a towel!
Which lakes are good for a quiet, relaxing experience away from crowds?
Wild lake is an excellent choice for unwinding. It offers a wonderful atmosphere with undisturbed natural sounds and fewer crowds, providing guaranteed shady spots under its trees on hot days.
Are there any lakes with facilities for picnics or barbecues?
Lake Sankenbach is ideal for picnics and barbecues. It features an excellent barbecue area at the foot of waterfalls, equipped with three rotating grates, numerous tables and benches, a drinking water fountain, and two shelters.
What kind of terrain can I expect around the lakes near Oppenau?
The lakes are nestled within the Black Forest region, characterized by dense forests and hilly terrain. Many are glacial or cirque lakes, meaning they are often surrounded by steep, pine-covered hills. Paths can range from easy walks around the lake shores to more intermediate trails leading to viewpoints or through nature reserves.
Are there accessible lakes for visitors with mobility needs?
Mummelsee is noted as being wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs. The Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform is also wheelchair accessible, offering stunning views.
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