Best lakes around Kirchdorf im Wald are situated in the Bavarian Forest, a region known for its natural beauty. The municipality of Kirchdorf im Wald, located at the foot of the Eschenberg, serves as a starting point for exploring the area's diverse aquatic landscapes. This region features both natural glacial lakes and significant artificial reservoirs. These bodies of water offer various opportunities for outdoor activities and provide scenic views.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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Easy to reach from the nearby hiking car park. Next time I'll take my bike with me, because it's a good mile from the lake to get up to the Schachten. Hiking and biking definitely makes sense here.
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The water stored in the drinking water dam is primarily used for public water supply. It is taken from the lake via the extraction tower, usually 21 m above ground, and fed to the processing plant on the Flanitzalm.
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The almost 85 m high dam (at the time of construction the highest stone dam in the Federal Republic of Germany) dams the Kleiner Regen into a lake with a capacity of almost 22 million m³. Flood water should be collected in the dam, but can also drain completely via the shaft overflow in the southwest of the lake. Pre-barricades at Hirschbach and Kleiner Regen keep driftwood and leaves back from the reservoir. The Kleiner Regen valley is very high. With a storage target of 767 m above sea level, almost the entire supply area can be reached with a natural gradient.
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An absolute dream. Postcard motif that absolutely has to be photographed!
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Well suited for a rest on the hike. There are benches on the bank and there is also enough space for a picnic.
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A quiet corner of nature, where you can relax and linger.
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The region around Kirchdorf im Wald offers a mix of natural glacial lakes and artificial reservoirs. You can visit unique tarns like Lake Rachel, which has a glacial origin, or impressive man-made structures such as the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir, built for public water supply and flood control.
Yes, the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is considered family-friendly, with hiking trails around it suitable for less experienced hikers. The dam crest itself is also a family-friendly highlight. Additionally, the Großarmschlag Reservoir offers a nice round trip that is generally accessible.
For hiking, both Lake Rachel and the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir are excellent choices. Lake Rachel offers peaceful rest spots during hikes, with benches and picnic areas. The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is a frequent starting point for numerous hikes throughout the Bavarian Forest National Park, featuring trails with magnificent views towards Kleiner Rachel and Großer Rachel. You can find various hiking routes in the area on the Hiking around Kirchdorf im Wald guide.
Yes, the area around the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir offers easy and flat circular routes, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. One side of the reservoir features a forest path, while the other is an asphalt road, providing varied terrain for an easy hike. The Großarmschlag Reservoir also has a pleasant round trip path.
Absolutely. From the View of Lake Rachel, particularly near the Rachelkapelle, you can enjoy a fantastic panoramic view down to the Rachelsee. The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir also provides beautiful views from its dam crest and surrounding trails towards the prominent peaks of Kleiner Rachel and Großer Rachel.
Lake Rachel is one of the three tarns (Karsee) in the Bavarian Forest, formed by glacial activity. It's notable for its unique ecosystem; it does not support fish or amphibian life. The lake and its surroundings have been a nature reserve since 1918, offering a peaceful and ecologically significant experience.
The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir, constructed between 1976 and 1983, primarily serves to secure public water supply for the Bavarian Forest, addressing groundwater shortages. It also plays a crucial role in flood control. The dam itself is an impressive engineering feat, standing almost 85 meters high.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. The area around the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is suitable for cycling, with an asphalt road on one side of the circular route. For more cycling options, you can explore various routes in the region, including those found in the MTB Trails around Kirchdorf im Wald guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Kirchdorf im Wald guide.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and the peaceful atmosphere. Lake Rachel is often described as a 'postcard motif' for its photographic opportunities and as a perfect spot for a break. The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is appreciated for its beautiful hiking trails and magnificent views, making it a rewarding excursion destination.
While the immediate vicinity of some lakes like Lake Rachel is primarily a nature reserve, benches are available for picnics. For cafes and restaurants, you would typically find options in nearby towns and villages, which serve as starting points for exploring the lakes. The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is a frequent starting point for hikes, implying nearby amenities in the surrounding area.
Yes, the Großarmschlag Reservoir is an idyllic spot, lined by dense forest, offering perfect photo opportunities. It's formed by the damming of the Große Ohe and is used for electricity generation. Visitors enjoy making a nice round trip around the reservoir, and it's noted for being particularly idyllic in foggy conditions with its sheltered bank.
The lakes are beautiful throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when hiking and cycling conditions are ideal. Spring brings fresh greenery, summer offers pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities, and autumn provides stunning foliage. While specific winter activities are not detailed, the landscapes can be picturesque with snow.


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