Top 20 Lakes in Ilm-Kreis
Best lakes in Ilm-Kreis are primarily impressive dams and reservoirs, as Thuringia features few large natural lakes. This district offers diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty, particularly around its water bodies. The region's lakes provide settings for outdoor activities and offer picturesque views within forested landscapes. Visitors can explore various man-made and natural features across these aquatic destinations.
Best lakes in Ilm-Kreis
- The most popular lakes is Upper Sieglitz Pond, a lake described as idyllic with a nice rest stop. It offers a quiet place for relaxation.
- Another must-see spot is Knöpfelstaler Pond, a lake known for its tranquility. Visitors can find a refuge here.
- Visitors also love Heyda Reservoir, a reservoir with a circular hiking trail. The east bank provides options for bathers, mountain bikers, and hikers.
- Ilm-Kreis is known for reservoirs, ponds, and man-made lakes. These water bodies offer a variety of landscapes and activities to explore.
- The lakes in Ilm-Kreis are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 600 photos shared across more than 80 highlights.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Lütsche Dam
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Upper Sieglitz Pond
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Heyda Reservoir
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Heyda Reservoir
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Lütschetalsperre Reservoir
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View of the Lütsche Reservoir from the dam
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Knöpfelstaler Pond
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Heyda Reservoir Dam
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Directly at the dam is a gas station.
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Lütsche Reservoir Beach
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You can swim in the reservoir and do other water sports such as diving and rowing. The water in summer is approx. 15 ° C to 20 ° C. and is accessible from many sides. There is enough bed space.
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Ochsenbacher Pond
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Tips from the Community
June 2025 the reservoir may not be used due to water shortages under penalty of law.
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Very beautiful reservoir in the middle of the Thuringian Forest 💚
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Swimming, fishing, relaxing, SUPing and camping. Everything is possible on the Lütsche.
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A cozy, idyllic spot in the middle of the forest. Ideal for relaxing. Even a beaver has left its traces here.
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The Lütsche reservoir, located between Oberhof and Frankenhain near Gräfenroda in the middle of the Thuringian Forest, is one of the most popular bathing destinations. The reason for this is, of course, the wooded surroundings. Otherwise, the Lütsche reservoir with its coarse-grained pebble beaches is mainly something for nature lovers. Bathers who prefer to splash around in open-air stainless steel pools are less keen on it. But the Lütschetalsee, which is easy to walk around, is also a popular destination outside of the bathing season. It can only be reached by car from Frankenhain on a small, well-signposted forest road and from Oberhof on a 3 km long hiking trail. There is also a campsite by the lake and a small snack stand and a café with a restaurant on the campsite are available to provide for guests.
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The circumnavigation is also easy for beginners. Well attended in summer and there are opportunities to stop off and the ice cream man is there 😁
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A really beautiful place in the Thuringian Forest and ideal for swimming in the summer. The paths all around are also really beautiful and suitable for almost any stroller:) For the more adventurous, I recommend a backpack or baby carrier.
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Beautiful dam and you can swim here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Ilm-Kreis are best for hiking and walking?
The Heyda Reservoir features a well-marked circular hiking trail, offering picturesque views through forested landscapes. Another excellent option is the Lütsche Dam, which has a two-kilometer circular path and a longer 12-kilometer 'Lütsche-Flößgraben' trail. For more extensive hiking, cycling, or running routes in the region, you can explore the various trails available in the MTB Trails in Ilm-Kreis, Cycling in Ilm-Kreis, and Running Trails in Ilm-Kreis guides.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Ilm-Kreis?
Yes, several lakes in Ilm-Kreis are suitable for families. The Lütsche Dam offers coarse gravel beaches for swimming, boat rentals, children's playgrounds, and volleyball. The Ilmenau Ponds, particularly the Great Pond, provide a park-like section, boat rentals, and have a zoo and school camp nearby. The Heyda Reservoir also has an east bank popular with bathers and hikers, making it a good choice for family outings.
What kind of water activities are available at the lakes?
The Lütsche Dam is excellent for swimming, diving, and rowing, with summer water temperatures typically ranging from 15°C to 20°C. It also offers boat rentals. The Great Pond within the Ilmenau Ponds area also provides boat rentals. The Heyda Reservoir's east bank is popular for bathing.
Where can I find a quiet spot for relaxation by a lake?
For tranquility, the Upper Sieglitz Pond is described as an idyllic lake with a nice rest stop, perfect for unwinding. Similarly, Knöpfelstaler Pond is known for its peaceful atmosphere, offering a refuge for visitors seeking calm.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Near the Heyda Reservoir, you can find the Riverdam Beer Garden & Steakhouse, which offers a cozy ambiance overlooking the water. The Lütsche Dam area has a campsite and several small restaurants, including a rustic inn serving hearty food and drinks. The Upper Sieglitz Pond also features a nice rest stop.
What natural features and viewpoints can I expect to see?
The lakes in Ilm-Kreis, primarily dams and reservoirs, are set within beautiful forested landscapes. The Heyda Reservoir offers unique landscapes with exposed tree stumps visible during low water levels. The Lütsche Dam provides scenic views from its wall. The Ilmenau Ponds are a wetland area, offering a peaceful natural setting. Many highlights, such as the View of the Lütsche Reservoir from the dam, are specifically noted for their scenic vistas.
Can I observe the dam structures themselves?
Yes, at the Heyda Reservoir, the dam's structure can be observed, and during periods of low water, unique landscapes with exposed tree stumps become visible. The Heyda Reservoir Dam is a specific highlight for this. Similarly, the Lütsche Dam offers scenic views from its impressive wall.
What is the historical significance of the lakes in Ilm-Kreis?
Many of the lakes in Ilm-Kreis are man-made reservoirs with interesting histories. The Heyda Reservoir was constructed between 1980 and 1988 for irrigation, flood protection, and water supply. The Lütsche Dam, built between 1935 and 1938, originally supplied soft water to train stations. The Ilmenau Ponds have a centuries-long history of fish farming due to their unique geological formation over gypsum stone.
Are there any easy walks around the lakes suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Lütsche Dam offers a relatively easy two-kilometer circular path around the lake, perfect for a refreshing walk. The Heyda Reservoir also has a circular hiking trail that is generally accessible. For a very relaxed experience, the Upper Sieglitz Pond is known for being idyllic with a nice rest stop, suggesting an easy, pleasant stroll.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in Ilm-Kreis?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the lakes. Many enjoy the well-maintained circular trails, like the one around Heyda Reservoir, which offers changing scenery with the seasons. The Lütsche Dam is valued for its natural setting, opportunities for swimming, and the rustic charm of its nearby inn. Quiet spots like Upper Sieglitz Pond and Knöpfelstaler Pond are cherished for their peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxation.
Are there specific lakes known for their beaches or swimming areas?
The Lütsche Dam is well-known for its coarse gravel beaches, making it a popular spot for swimming and bathing. The Lütsche Reservoir Beach is a specific highlight. The eastern bank of the Heyda Reservoir also caters to bathers, offering a suitable area for swimming.
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