Top 20 Lakes around Zülpich
Best lakes around Zülpich are centered around the Zülpicher See, also known as the Wassersportsee Zülpich, a prominent lake formed from former open-pit mining areas. This lake is approximately 1.2 km long and 500 m wide, covering about 85 hectares. It is part of the Kottenforst-Ville Nature Park, offering a landscape for various outdoor activities. The area includes the Seepark Zülpich, a 20-hectare recreational space that provides access to the lake and its surroundings.
Best lakes around Zülpich
- The most popular lakes highlight is Wooden boardwalk at the Heimbach Reservoir, a trail that features beautiful and rustic sections with wooden walkways. This path offers reflections in the water and is suitable for hikers.
- Another must-see spot is Obermaubach Reservoir, a lake and man-made monument. This diverse reservoir provides views over the water and includes facilities for visitors.
- Visitors also love Rur Dam (Schwammenauel Reservoir), a man-made monument. With a height of almost 70 meters, the dam is one of the highest in Germany and offers views of the Rursee.
- Zülpich is known for reservoirs, natural lakes, and trails along the water. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, including those with recreational parks and water sports facilities.
- The lakes around Zülpich are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 3100 upvotes and more than 1600 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
Wooden boardwalks at Heimbach Reservoir
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Wooden boardwalk at the Heimbach Reservoir
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Obermaubach Reservoir
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Rursee Loop Trail
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Rur Dam (Schwammenauel Reservoir)
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful cycle path along the Rursee
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Delicious and affordable food at Café Schröder in Woffelsbach. Large selection: a slice of cake for €3.30 and a coffee for €3.
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Last week I cycled along the Obersee between the rain showers. There are also beautiful cycle paths there. And always new impressions and views of the water.
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This wonderful path around the Rursee is 27 km long and 80% of it runs directly along the water through an impressive and atmospheric landscape. This is pure nature. Beautiful!
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The cycle path runs directly along the water in many places.
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Here you have a very nice view over the Rursee
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The Rursee is always worth a tour.
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Very nicely located wooden walkways in good condition.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main lake in the Zülpich area and what does it offer?
The primary lake is the Zülpicher See, also known as the Wassersportsee Zülpich. It's a hub for recreation, offering a 150-meter-long sandy beach for swimming, various water sports like pedal boating, stand-up paddling, and sailing, and even BBQ boats. The lake is part of the Kottenforst-Ville Nature Park.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in Zülpich?
Yes, the Seepark Zülpich, located at Zülpicher See, is designed for family fun. It features a Flying Fox Park with zip-lines over the lake, an Aqua Park, a pirate climbing ship, giant bouncy cushions, a water playground, and adventure golf. There's also a falconry and an outdoor fitness course.
What kind of hiking trails can I find near the lakes?
You can find a variety of hiking trails. For example, the Wooden boardwalk at the Heimbach Reservoir offers beautiful, rustic sections with wooden walkways and reflections in the water. The Rursee Loop Trail is a 27 km path, with 80% running directly along the water through an impressive natural landscape. For more options, you can explore various routes in the Mountain Hikes around Zülpich guide.
Are there opportunities for water sports on Zülpicher See?
Absolutely. The Zülpicher See is well-suited for various water sports. You can rent pedal boats or unique BBQ boats, and stand-up paddling and sailing are also popular activities on the lake.
What are some notable viewpoints or natural features to see?
The Obermaubach Reservoir offers wonderful views over the water, and its fish ladder with a glass underwater area is a unique natural feature. The Rur Dam (Schwammenauel Reservoir), one of Germany's highest, provides great views of the Rursee. Additionally, the Seepark Zülpich has a 30-meter-high observation tower offering panoramic views of the Zülpicher Börde towards the Eifel.
Can I swim in the Zülpicher See?
Yes, the Zülpicher See has a 150-meter-long sandy beach on its southwest shore that is a monitored bathing area. The lake has been classified as 'excellent for swimming' since 2004, offering a Mediterranean ambiance with 4,000 square meters of sandy beaches.
What cultural or historical sites are near the lakes?
The city center of Zülpich, with its well-preserved city wall, castle, and museums, is within walking distance of the Zülpicher See and Seepark. The Electoral Cologne state castle, which houses the observation tower, is also part of the park area.
Is the Seepark Zülpich accessible for prams or wheelchairs?
Yes, the Seepark Zülpich is barrier-free, making it accessible for prams and handcarts, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
What kind of cycling routes are available around the lakes?
There are various cycling routes, including those that run directly along the water. For mountain biking, you can find trails like the 'Veybach Singletrack' or routes connecting castles. Road cycling options include tours with views of the Zülpicher Börde. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Zülpich and Road Cycling Routes around Zülpich guides.
Are there events or festivals held at the Seepark Zülpich?
The Seepark Zülpich hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These include festivals, themed events like 'Leuchtende Gärten' (Glowing Gardens), and the 'Dragon Festival'. It also serves as a scenic venue for sporting events such as the Zülpich Chlodwiglauf.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Zülpich?
Visitors particularly enjoy the beautiful footpaths, especially those with wooden boardwalks that offer wonderful views and reflections in the water, such as at the Heimbach Reservoir. The diverse nature, family-friendly attractions like the fish ladder at Obermaubach Reservoir, and the impressive views from the Rur Dam are also highly appreciated.
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