Top 20 Lakes around Birkenheide
Lakes near Birkenheide Germany are primarily found in the surrounding Palatinate Forest, a region known for its diverse natural landscapes. Birkenheide is a municipality in Rhineland-Palatinate, situated west of Ludwigshafen. The area features a mix of forests, natural monuments, and various water bodies, including unique bog ponds and former quarry lakes. This region provides opportunities for outdoor activities centered around its natural features.
Best lakes around Birkenheide
- The most popular lakes is Ungeheuersee, a lake that is a flat bog pond fed by the Krumbach. It has been protected as a natural monument since the 1930s and is part of the only raised bog in this low mountain range.
- Another must-see spot is Basalt Lake South Quarry (Forst, Palatinate), a lake that emerged after basalt quarrying ceased. This smaller, more accessible lake is now a nature reserve, offering views of its unique geological formation.
- Visitors also love Lambsheimer Weiher, a lake with a restaurant and a beach bar. This location provides amenities for relaxation and dining by the water.
- Birkenheide is known for its natural bog ponds, former basalt quarry lakes, and recreational lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies for exploration and enjoyment.
- The lakes around Birkenheide are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 3600 upvotes and more than 1900 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ungeheuersee
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Basalt Lake South Quarry (Forst, Palatinate)
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Basalt Lake (Nordbruch)
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It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt found there.
The ballast was mined in open-cast mining until the 1980s. In addition to a smaller crater in the southwest, a larger one was created in the northeast, which is 100 m deep and 200 m in diameter. Initially, the rock was transported by a circular cable car to a loading station with a grinding mill on the Neustadt-Bad Dürkheim railway line. The cable car was more than 2 km long and ran between Forst an der Weinstraße and Deidesheim across the German Wine Route.
After basalt mining was stopped, the grinding mill and cable car were dismantled and the edges of the craters were cordoned off to prevent access. Because the water escaping in the mining area is no longer pumped out as it was during mining times, two ponds formed on the bottom of the mining craters, which are now natural biotopes.
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Lambsheimer Weiher
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View of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey
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Tips from the Community
So no one has to slip through the fence to take photos
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Something really great was built there. The platform was newly installed and now you have a great view of the quarry and the lake.
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Since June 2024, there has been an observation platform on the edge of the Nordbruch crater lake, which offers a great view of one of the two basalt lakes. Information board no. 7 next to the viewing platform tells the interesting story of this quarry: "The basalt deposit around Forst is 820 m long and 260 m wide and is slightly dumbbell-shaped. The Margaretental runs through the middle of the deposit, which is why the basalt had to be mined in TWO separate quarries. The north quarry was the first to be opened up in 1841, but production there was only for the quarry's own needs. Five years later, in 1846, mining also began in the south quarry. In 1897, mining in the north quarry was stopped until a lease agreement with the municipality of Forst made further mining possible in 1911. A 2800 m long cable car was built to transport the extracted rock, which ended directly at the railway line near Deidesheim and was only replaced by a transport road in 1969. Mining in the south quarry was stopped in 1964. In December 1990, operations in Nordbruch finally ceased. Following the closure, both sites were recultivated and officially returned to nature in 2011."
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Platform with a great view of the basalt lake deep in the crater. Now nobody has to climb over the fence anymore 😉
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Great sight if you're tall enough to look over the edge. Not visible to children. Luckily it was completely cordoned off due to the brittle edges. Impressive crater!
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From the path, the ballast quarry offers an impressive view of the lake that has formed there. It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt found there. The ballast was mined in open-cast mining until the 1980s. In addition to a smaller crater in the southwest, a larger one was created in the northeast, which is 100 m deep and 200 m in diameter. Initially, the rock was transported by a circular cable car to a loading station with a grinding mill on the Neustadt-Bad Dürkheim railway line. The cable car was more than 2 km long and ran between Forst an der Weinstraße and Deidesheim across the German Wine Route. After basalt mining was stopped, the grinding mill and cable car were dismantled and the edges of the craters were cordoned off to prevent access. Because the water escaping in the mining area is no longer pumped out as it was during mining times, two ponds formed on the bottom of the mining craters, which are now natural biotopes.
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This is the smaller, more accessible lake that emerged after the basalt quarries near Forst were abandoned in the 1980s. Today it's a nature reserve, so you'd better avoid swimming here. It's definitely worth seeing.
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Great view super nice hiking trails
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Birkenheide unique?
The lakes around Birkenheide are primarily found in the Palatinate Forest and include diverse natural features. You'll find unique bog ponds like the Ungeheuersee, which is part of a rare raised bog, and former quarry lakes such as the Basalt Lake South Quarry and Basalt Lake (Nordbruch), which formed after basalt mining ceased.
Which lakes near Birkenheide are suitable for swimming?
For swimming and relaxation, Lambsheimer Weiher is a great option. It features a restaurant and a beach bar, making it ideal for a leisurely day by the water. Other lakes, especially those designated as nature reserves like the Ungeheuersee and the Basalt Lakes, are generally not suitable or permitted for swimming due to their protected status.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Birkenheide?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. Lambsheimer Weiher is popular for its amenities like a beach bar and restaurant. The Ungeheuersee is also considered family-friendly for walks and enjoying nature, as is the Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) with its impressive viewing platform.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available around the lakes?
The Palatinate Forest surrounding Birkenheide offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can enjoy walks around lakes like the Ungeheuersee, which has trails leading around its bog pond. For more extensive routes, you can explore the wider network of trails in the region. Check out the Running Trails around Birkenheide guide for ideas on routes that might pass by some of these natural water bodies.
What is the history behind the Basalt Lakes near Birkenheide?
The Basalt Lake South Quarry and Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) are former basalt quarries. Mining operations ceased in the 1980s and 1990s, and the craters subsequently filled with water, creating unique natural biotopes. The Nordbruch site even features an observation platform with information boards detailing its history.
Are there places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, you can find dining options near some of the lakes. Lambsheimer Weiher has a restaurant and a beach bar directly on site. Near the Ungeheuersee, you'll find the PWV hut Weisenheim, which offers refreshments (check their opening hours).
Can I bring my dog to the lakes around Birkenheide?
Many areas around the lakes in the Palatinate Forest are dog-friendly for walks, but specific regulations apply, especially in nature reserves. For instance, the Ungeheuersee is a protected natural monument, so dogs should generally be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and the delicate ecosystem. Swimming for dogs is typically not allowed in nature reserves.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Birkenheide?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming at recreational lakes like Lambsheimer Weiher and enjoying outdoor dining. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the Palatinate Forest, with vibrant foliage in autumn. Even winter can be beautiful for quiet walks around the frozen landscapes.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, beyond the historical basalt quarries, you can find other points of interest. A viewpoint offers a stunning view of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey, providing a glimpse into the region's past amidst the natural scenery.
What activities can I do at lakes where swimming is not allowed?
Even if swimming isn't permitted, lakes like the Ungeheuersee and the Basalt Lakes offer plenty to do. You can enjoy scenic walks, birdwatching, photography, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty. The Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) has an observation platform for impressive views of the former quarry.
How can I reach the lakes around Birkenheide?
Birkenheide is a municipality in Rhineland-Palatinate, situated west of Ludwigshafen. While specific public transport routes to every lake might vary, many are accessible by car, often with nearby parking facilities. For detailed information on reaching specific lakes like the Ungeheuersee, it's advisable to check local public transport schedules or plan your route by car to designated parking areas.
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