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Germany
Bavaria
Lower Bavaria
Landkreis Passau

Sonnen

Top 17 Lakes around Sonnen

Best lakes around Sonnen, a municipality in Bavaria's Passau district, are found within the surrounding Bavarian Forest region. This area provides access to a variety of lakes, ranging from large bathing reservoirs to smaller natural bodies of water. The landscape is characterized by forests and river valleys, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Best lakes around Sonnen

  • The most popular lakes is Freudensee, a lake that features a very beautiful circular route suitable for all seasons. This spot is appreciated for its scenic views and is a popular destination for walks.
  • Another must-see spot is Erlauzwieseler Reservoir, a lake and natural monument. It is described as a beautiful, calm lake located in a spa park, offering a refreshing experience.
  • Visitors also love Rannasee, a lake with great views. It is known as an artificial swimming lake with an area of 20 hectares, featuring bays, a restaurant, and paddle boat rentals.
  • Sonnen is known for its bathing lakes, reservoirs, and natural lakes. These bodies of water provide diverse settings for swimming, boating, and enjoying the natural surroundings.
  • The lakes around Sonnen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 600 upvotes and over 100 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 20, 2026

Erlauzwieseler Reservoir

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A beautiful, calm lake in the spa park near Waldkirchen. Although not a lake, but you can rock but with a boat over the refreshing wet.

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Freudensee

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top track. Nice section.

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Rannasee

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Great view over the Ranasee!

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Urlsee Pond Nature Trail

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Experience the pond habitat from a different perspective. Looking into the vital element of water and looking at the diversity of plant and animal life in and around Lake Urlsee.

Pure nature experience on the comfortable walkable 1300 m long and 2.5 m wide circular walk, which is also ideal for families with prams and wheelchair users. The beginning of the nature trail is at the clubhouse, where you can relax on the sun terrace with panoramic views. Benches for rest and relaxation and a toilet - facility are also available.

Opening hours:
all year


Prices:
Single entry free, group tours € 3.30 per person, by appointment


Contact:
+43 664/32 44 919 - Chairman Martin Neumüller
+43 7288/7026 13 - Tourismusverein Klaffer am Hochficht
Web: anglerzentrum-boehmerwald.at

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Ranna Reservoir

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beautiful drivable reservoir

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Tips from the Community

Heimat Treue
October 31, 2025, Rannasee

a wooden sculpture on the peninsula at Lake Ranna

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Heimat Treue
October 31, 2025, Rannasee

From the peninsula at Lake Ranna, there is a beautiful view over the entire lake.

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Leon
June 3, 2025, Ranna Reservoir

a beautiful reservoir on the border between Germany and Austria

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Leon
June 2, 2025, Ranna Reservoir

Great in summer for swimming/lazing around and taking a break

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Tanja 🌞
December 9, 2024, Freudensee

Perfect running route around the lake.

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Erwin Köck
August 17, 2024, Rannasee

A wonderful bathing lake that can also be comfortably walked around (on foot or by bike).

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A wonderful bathing lake that can also be comfortably walked around (on foot or by bike).

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Very nice access along the Ranna below the dam coming from Oberkappel. The last few meters at the dam are steep and challenging due to washed-out gravel channels

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which lakes near Sonnen are particularly good for families?

For families, Rannasee is an excellent choice. It's the largest bathing lake in the Bavarian Forest, featuring a 120-meter-long waterslide, an adventure playground, beach volleyball courts, and a children's paddling pool. Freudensee also offers a beautiful circular route suitable for all ages, and the Urlsee Pond Nature Trail is wheelchair accessible and ideal for families with prams.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Sonnen?

The lakes around Sonnen offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and pedal boating at places like Rannasee and Catchment Lake Oberilzmill. The region is also excellent for cycling, with numerous routes available. For instance, you can find various cycling tours around the lakes in the Cycling around Sonnen guide.

Are there good hiking or walking trails around the lakes?

Absolutely. Many lakes offer scenic walking and hiking opportunities. Freudensee is known for its beautiful circular route, appreciated in all seasons. Catchment Lake Oberilzmill serves as a starting point for many hiking tours along the picturesque Ilz River. You can explore more options in the Cycling around Sonnen guide, which includes routes that pass by these beautiful lake areas.

Which lakes are best for swimming and water sports?

For swimming and water sports, Rannasee is highly recommended, being the largest bathing lake in the Bavarian Forest with pedal boat rentals and a waterslide. Catchment Lake Oberilzmill is also a popular spot for swimming and offers large meadows for sunbathing, with boat tours available through a rowing club.

Are there any natural lakes or reservoirs with unique features?

Yes, Erlauzwieseler Reservoir is a notable natural monument described as a beautiful, calm lake located in a spa park, offering a refreshing experience. Lake Eging is another natural bathing lake fed by the Rohrbach stream, providing a natural swimming experience with scenic views.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Sonnen?

Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and tranquility of the lakes. Many appreciate the well-maintained circular routes, like the one at Freudensee, and the diverse recreational options available, from swimming and boating to hiking. The clear waters and natural settings are consistently highlighted as major draws.

Are there any lakes suitable for fishing?

Anglers can acquire day permits to fish at Rannasee, where various species like carp, trout, and pike can be found. This makes it a good option for those looking to combine relaxation with fishing.

Are there any lakes near Sonnen that are easily accessible from Passau?

The Lower Ilz Reservoir Hals Passau is conveniently located directly above the trift barrier in the Hals district of Passau. It can be reached by bike from Passau's old town within 20 minutes and has a small car park, making it easily accessible for a quick escape into nature.

Can I find amenities like restaurants or cafes near the lakes?

Yes, some lakes offer amenities. Rannasee has a restaurant, and the Lower Ilz Reservoir Hals Passau features a kiosk and a small beer garden. The Urlsee Pond Nature Trail also has a clubhouse with a sun terrace.

Are there any lakes that are dog-friendly for walks?

The Lower Ilz Reservoir Hals Passau permits dogs on a leash, making it a suitable option for walks with your canine companion. Always ensure to check local regulations for other lakes regarding dog access.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Sonnen?

The lakes around Sonnen are beautiful year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant natural scenery. Some circular routes, like at Freudensee, are appreciated in all seasons.

Are there any lakes that are considered 'hidden gems' or offer more tranquility?

Catchment Lake Oberilzmill is often considered a somewhat hidden gem, offering tranquility amidst clear waters. Its natural beauty along the Ilz River provides a serene experience away from more crowded spots.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Sonnen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

UntergriesbachNeukirchen vorm WaldWitzmannsbergBreitenbergObernzellHutthurmBüchlbergHauzenbergRudertingTittlingThyrnauSalzwegWegscheidAicha vorm WaldFürstensteinWindorfEging am SeeVilshofen an der DonauHofkirchenFürstenzellNeuburg am InnBad FüssingRotthalmünsterMalchingPockingBad Griesbach im RottalTettenweisNeuhaus am InnKößlarnRuhstorf an der RottHaarbachOrtenburgAldersbachRannasee

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