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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Ruhr Region

Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

Top 20 Lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

Best lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland offer diverse recreational opportunities and natural features. This region, particularly around Haltern am See, is characterized by its significant water bodies, many of which serve as drinking water sources. The landscape combines man-made reservoirs with natural lakes, providing varied environments for visitors. It is a notable area for outdoor activities, with extensive trails and natural beauty.

Best lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

  • The most popular lake is Halterner Reservoir, a lake that is a significant source of drinking water and a popular leisure destination. It features a 10 km circular route and a passenger ship.
  • Another must-see spot is Hullerner Reservoir, a lake designated for quiet recreation. Visitors can enjoy cycling tours and leisurely walks in a tranquil environment.
  • Visitors also love Pfingstsee, a lake formed by mining activity. This area offers a very nice route through a biotope with opportunities for a break.
  • Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland is known for its reservoirs, natural lakes, and former mining lakes. The variety of lakes provides options for active recreation, quiet contemplation, and nature observation.
  • The lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4200 upvotes and over 300 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: May 25, 2026

Halterner Reservoir

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Great starting point for a walk around the lake. It's the largest drinking water extraction facility, which is why swimming is prohibited everywhere.

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In spring 2024, the paths will be in very good condition and accessible to any bicycle.

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Pfingstsee

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We feel a special connection to some places. But what does that actually mean? And how does such a relationship differ from one with a person?

Wheel of Fortune Exercise: Inner Developmental Goals 3 - RELATIONSHIP

As humans, we are born in need of help. Other living beings are capable of survival from birth; we depend on other people to feed us or protect us from cold and heat. And we organize the world so that it benefits and protects us. The fact that we are social, intelligent, and adaptable beings is our recipe for success.

Living together is (not) a stroke of luck. Look for examples from your own life where this coexistence works well. And consider how the attitudes and feelings below contribute to this.

(1) Appreciation
Approach others and the world with a fundamental sense of appreciation, gratitude, and joy.
(2) Connectedness
A strong sense of being connected to or part of a larger whole, such as a community, humanity, or a global ecosystem.
(3) Humility
Being able to act in accordance with the needs of the situation without concern for one's own importance.
(4) Empathy and Compassion
The ability to treat others, oneself, and nature with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and to cope with the associated suffering.

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Vischering Castle

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This castle is a nice destination. It houses a museum, a café, a medieval bakery and is surrounded by greenery.

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Hullerner Reservoir

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The Hullern reservoir is very beautiful, as it is usually not as crowded as the Haltern reservoir. If you want, you can take both lakes with you. A great tour. I love to drive them again and again.

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Tips from the Community

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April 16, 2025, Pfingstsee

We feel a special connection to some places. But what does that actually mean? And how does such a relationship differ from one with a person? Wheel of Fortune Exercise: Inner Developmental Goals 3 - RELATIONSHIP As humans, we are born in need of help. Other living beings are capable of survival from birth; we depend on other people to feed us or protect us from cold and heat. And we organize the world so that it benefits and protects us. The fact that we are social, intelligent, and adaptable beings is our recipe for success. Living together is (not) a stroke of luck. Look for examples from your own life where this coexistence works well. And consider how the attitudes and feelings below contribute to this. (1) Appreciation Approach others and the world with a fundamental sense of appreciation, gratitude, and joy. (2) Connectedness A strong sense of being connected to or part of a larger whole, such as a community, humanity, or a global ecosystem. (3) Humility Being able to act in accordance with the needs of the situation without concern for one's own importance. (4) Empathy and Compassion The ability to treat others, oneself, and nature with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and to cope with the associated suffering.

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In spring 2024, the paths will be in very good condition and accessible to any bicycle.

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The trip around both reservoirs is really fun, but I could imagine that it could be crowded here when the weather is very nice.

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The SteverLandRoute leads here directly along the Haltern reservoir and always allows great views of the large lake and the boats. The SteverLandRoute is the family bike path in the Münsterland: Here, information boards for adults and information boards especially for children (!) provide information about the great project. There are a total of 14 hands-on stations along the route. If you like, you can use the children's discovery card to travel from station to station, collect coin impressions and become a Stever expert. Have a look at our collection :)

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The Hullern reservoir is the Stever dammed for drinking water production. This lake only has a "sandy beach" during long periods of drought, like here in August 2022. The SteverLandRoute runs along the banks of the Hullern and Halterner reservoirs and offers beautiful views of the lake from the cycle path, which is otherwise inaccessible. The fourth stage of the Steverland route always leads along the shore of the lake. The SteverlandRoute is the family bike path in Münsterland. Take a look at our collection! :)

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A very well-kept bike path at the Haltern reservoir. If you drive here you have some nice viewpoints to the marina on the north shore.

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With its important past as a Roman base around the birth of Christ, Haltern am See has had town rights since 1289 and is a historical, up-and-coming medium-sized town, located at the northernmost point of the Lippe, embedded in the Hohe Mark, Haard and Borkenberge forest areas. The current urban area of Haltern am See was created as part of the municipal territorial reform in North Rhine-Westphalia in 1975. At that time, the town and the Haltern district, consisting of the communities Kirchspiel-Haltern (Holtwick, Lavesum and Sythen), Hullern and Lippramsdorf, were merged and expanded south of the Lippe to include the communities of Flaesheim (formerly part of the Datteln district) and Hamm-Bossendorf (parts of the Hamm community formerly part of the Marl district). The allocation of districts south of the Lippe to Haltern meant crossing a centuries-old border. A border that was the reason and prerequisite for the granting of town rights to Haltern by the sovereign and Prince-Bishop of Münster, Everhard von Diest, in the 13th century. Since 1908, Haltern am See has had a pumping station to pump drinking water for the northern Ruhr area. Water extraction has been steadily expanded; it helped the city to earn its decorative name "Haltern am See" and reached its provisional end point with the completion of the Hullerner Lake in 1985. A side effect of the area-intensive water management is the increased recreational value of the Haltern landscape, which, free of industry, has become even more attractive to visitors and locals thanks to the creation of the lakes. Today, the Haltern lakes with their boathouses, sailing harbor and seaside resort are the destination of many people seeking relaxation. But Haltern am See has more to offer visitors than just the lake. The attractive and varied landscape is often referred to as the lungs of the Ruhr area. The city is the heart of the Hohe Mark Nature Park. The extensive forests of the Haard and the Hohe Mark, as well as the Westruper Heide, Holtwicker Heide and Sebbelheide nature reserves, are accessible via a dense network of hiking, cycling, horse riding and walking trails. The pedestrian zones of the old town and the modern town centers of Sythen, Flaesheim, Lippramsdorf, Hullern and Lavesum are popular shopping and meeting places for residents and visitors alike.

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Along the northern path you have some beautiful views of the lake and the island of Overath. In the forest section of the local "Hochzeitsallee" (Karl-Homann-Weg), 130 winter linden trees were planted by newlyweds.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What unique features do the lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland offer?

The lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland provide a diverse range of experiences. The Halterner Reservoir is a significant drinking water source and a hub for active recreation with water sports and a passenger ship. For quiet contemplation, the Hullerner Reservoir offers tranquil walks and cycling. The Silberseen, particularly Silbersee II, are known for their clear water and sandy beaches, while Silbersee III is a protected area ideal for nature observation and scenic walks.

What is the best time to visit the lakes for outdoor activities?

The summer months, particularly from June to August, are ideal for visiting lakes like the Halterner Stausee for water sports and sunbathing. However, the region offers year-round opportunities for hiking and cycling. For nature observation and tranquil walks, spring and autumn can be particularly rewarding with pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery.

Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?

Yes, many lakes are family-friendly. Silbersee II, for example, has a beautiful sandy beach and clear water perfect for families. The Halterner Reservoir offers pedal boat rentals and a passenger ship, the 'Möwe', which is popular with families. The Heidhof Experience Center near the Halterner Reservoir also features a playground and forest school activities for children.

Can I swim in the lakes of Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland?

Swimming is permitted in designated areas. Silbersee II is a popular spot for swimming, known for its excellent water quality and sandy beach. However, swimming is generally prohibited in the Halterner Reservoir and the Hullerner Reservoir as they serve as drinking water sources. Silbersee III is also not open for swimming, being dedicated to quiet recreation and nature observation.

What kind of hiking and cycling trails can I find around the lakes?

The region boasts an extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. The Halterner Reservoir has a popular 10 km circular route. You can also find tranquil cycling tours around the Hullerner Reservoir. Silbersee III features a beautifully developed 5 km circular trail with viewing platforms. For more options, explore the Mountain Hikes, Road Cycling Routes, and Gravel Biking guides for the region.

Are there any cultural or historical sites near the lakes?

Yes, the town of Haltern am See, located near the Halterner Reservoir, has a rich history, including its past as a Roman base. The Roman Museum in Haltern is a notable cultural attraction. The town itself, with its old town pedestrian zones, offers a glimpse into the region's heritage.

Are the trails around the lakes accessible for everyone?

While many trails are well-maintained, specific information on fully accessible paths for wheelchairs or strollers varies. The North Shore Trail at the Halterner Reservoir is generally in very good condition and accessible for bicycles, suggesting it might be suitable for some. For detailed accessibility information, it's recommended to check local resources or contact Haltern Tourismus directly.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes?

Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, especially for walks on trails. For instance, Pfingstsee is listed as dog-friendly. However, specific rules regarding leashes and access to swimming areas may apply and can vary by location. Always look for local signage to ensure compliance with regulations.

Where can I find refreshments or facilities near the lakes?

The Heidhof Experience Center, located near the Halterner Reservoir, is a popular contact point offering a kiosk for refreshments, WC facilities, and even barbecue huts for rent. There are also cafes and restaurants in the town of Haltern am See and surrounding areas that provide lake views or are easily accessible from the trails.

What kind of wildlife can I observe around the lakes?

The lakes and surrounding natural areas are rich in flora and fauna. Silbersee III, in particular, is a protected landscape conservation area with a focus on nature observation, offering viewing platforms to observe impressive wildlife. The Halterner Reservoir also features a bird island, making it a good spot for birdwatching.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland?

Visitors highly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from active water sports and extensive cycling paths to tranquil walks and nature observation. The beautiful scenery, clear waters, and well-maintained trails are frequently praised. The combination of leisure activities with the natural beauty and historical context of areas like Haltern am See makes the region a popular destination for relaxation and outdoor adventures.

Most popular routes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

Family-friendly hikes in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

Most popular attractions in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland

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Still not found your perfect lake in Naturpark Hohe Mark - Westmünsterland? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

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