Top 20 Lakes around Maxhütte-Haidhof
Best lakes around Maxhütte-Haidhof are primarily found in the nearby Upper Palatinate Lake District, an area transformed from former lignite open-cast mines into popular recreational zones. The region features several lakes offering diverse outdoor activities and natural beauty. These bodies of water provide opportunities for water sports, hiking, and nature observation. Maxhütte-Haidhof serves as a gateway to these renatured landscapes.
Best lakes around Maxhütte-Haidhof
- The most popular lakes is Lake Steinberg, a lake that is the largest in Eastern Bavaria and offers facilities for water sports and relaxation. A well-developed path leads around the lake, providing pleasant views.
- Another must-see spot is Adventure Sphere at Steinberger Lake, a man-made monument and viewpoint. Visitors can expect panoramic views over the lake district from a height of 40m, accessed via a 700-meter path with over 30 adventure stations.
- Visitors also love Saltendorf Pond, a lake that features benches, changing facilities, and a playground. It is a hotspot for children, offering several ways to enter the water.
- Maxhütte-Haidhof is known for its renatured lakes and ponds, offering both large recreational areas and smaller, tranquil spots. The area provides a variety of lakes to see and explore, from expansive water sports hubs to quiet natural observation points.
- The lakes around Maxhütte-Haidhof are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1000 upvotes and over 150 photos shared across 6 highlights.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Lake Steinberg
Highlight • Lake
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Steinberger See
Highlight • Lake
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Adventure Sphere at Steinberger Lake
Highlight • Monument
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Erlebnispark Steinberg am See Observation Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
If you want to go down with the carpet slide, then you have to think about your carpet when you climb up. There is none above. You have to carry it up with you.
Still very interesting to know:
On the way up there are a few stations where you can put your skill/balance to the test (but can also be bypassed).
Arrived at the bottom:
There are also 4 ball tracks here. The balls can be bought in the restaurant for €2.50. There are two lanes per ball track that you can compete against each other. The wooden balls have a logo which is also a nice souvenir.
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Steinberger See Circular Trail
Highlight • Trail
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
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Beautiful path around the lake, unfortunately a bit crowded in summer
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The inMotion PARK on Lake Steinberger is an extraordinary experience and offers a special highlight with the world's largest walk-in wooden adventure ball. From a height of 40m you can enjoy the wonderful view over the lake district from the viewing platform. Since the beginning of 2019, an almost 750m long path has led up to the special leisure attraction on the largest lake in Eastern Bavaria. You can go down the same way or via the 80m long giant slide. There are over 30 adventure stations, 2 suspension bridges and two outdoor balcony circular paths on the circular route.
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The Steinberg Lake, together with the Murner Lake, forms the heart of the region and offers everything that water sports enthusiasts, those seeking relaxation, cyclists, hikers or recreational athletes need. A well-developed and pleasant path leads around Lake Steinberg, and display and information boards have been set up everywhere and bring the region, nature and history closer.
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Very nice bathing lake with numerous leisure activities (sailing, SUP, wakeboard facility, adventure mini golf, wooden adventure ball, etc.). It is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate.
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It's always nice to ride a mountain bike here and enjoy the beautiful landscape
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Wonderful path with beautiful views of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of activities can families enjoy at the lakes near Maxhütte-Haidhof?
Families have many options, especially at Lake Steinberg. It features the WildWakePark for water sports, and the Movin'Ground leisure park with trampolines, water slides, and a beer garden. The Saltendorf Pond is also very popular with children, offering a playground, benches, and easy access to the water.
Are there opportunities for water sports like wakeboarding or diving?
Yes, the region is excellent for water sports. Lake Steinberg is home to the WildWakePark, offering wakeboarding and water skiing with four cable cars. Murner See is particularly popular for diving due to its clear water and unique underwater landscape, including an "underwater forest" and artifacts from its mining past.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints or landmarks around the lakes?
For panoramic views, visit the Adventure Sphere at Steinberger Lake. This impressive wooden globe offers views over the lake district from a height of 40m, with a 700-meter path featuring over 30 adventure stations. There are also well-developed paths around Lake Steinberg that provide beautiful views.
What hiking and cycling routes are available near the lakes?
Both Lake Steinberg and Murner See have well-developed paths suitable for cycling and hiking. For specific cycling routes, you can explore options like the "View of Lake Murner – Lake Steinberg loop" which is a moderate 59.58 km route. For more details, see the Cycling around Maxhütte-Haidhof guide. The Eselweiher also offers easy walks and hikes suitable for all fitness levels.
Are the lakes accessible by public transport from Maxhütte-Haidhof?
While direct public transport links to every lake might vary, the Upper Palatinate Lake District, where the main lakes like Lake Steinberg and Murner See are located, is generally reachable. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider a combination of public transport and short taxi rides for the most convenient access to specific lake areas.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Maxhütte-Haidhof?
The lakes are popular year-round, but the summer months are ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the outdoor facilities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural scenery. Even in winter, some paths around the lakes are suitable for walks.
Are there any dog-friendly areas or trails around the lakes?
Many of the natural paths and circular routes around lakes like Lake Steinberg and Murner See are suitable for walks with dogs. However, specific regulations regarding dogs on beaches or in certain recreational areas may apply, so it's always best to look for local signage.
Can I find cafes or restaurants with lake views?
Yes, particularly around Lake Steinberg, there are numerous restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy dining with scenic lake views. The Movin'Ground leisure park at Lake Steinberg also includes a beer garden.
What makes the Eselweiher a unique place to visit?
The Eselweiher is a smaller, tranquil pond perfect for easy hikes and nature observation directly from Maxhütte-Haidhof. It's known for its serene natural setting and offers opportunities to spot diverse waterfowl, storks, and frogs. Benches along the paths provide peaceful spots to appreciate the surroundings.
Are there any mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area offers mountain biking opportunities. For example, the "Rollercoaster Trail at Knappensee – Wild Wake & Ski Schwandorf loop" is a moderate 44.93 km MTB route. You can find more mountain biking options in the MTB Trails around Maxhütte-Haidhof guide.
What is the origin of these lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District?
Many of the lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, including Lake Steinberg and Murner See, are former lignite open-cast mines that have been successfully re-naturalized and flooded. This transformation has created popular recreational areas from industrial sites.
Are there any specific areas for swimming at the lakes?
Yes, lakes like Lake Steinberg offer sunny natural beaches and secluded coves for swimming. The Saltendorf Pond also has several nice ways to get into the water, making it a popular spot for a refreshing dip.
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