Top 20 Lakes in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel
Best lakes in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel are primarily characterized by the Arendsee, the largest and deepest natural lake in Saxony-Anhalt. This region features a plain countryside with forests and heathlands, offering diverse natural landscapes. The Arendsee covers 5.54 square kilometers and provides excellent water quality for various activities. Beyond the Arendsee, the region also contains significant wetland habitats like the Brietz ponds, important for birdlife.
Best lakes in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel
- The most popular lakes is Arendsee Monastery Ruins, a historical…
Last updated: May 28, 2026
Arendsee Beach
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Arendsee Monastery Ruins
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Playground on the Arendsee lakeside promenade
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Rest area and lakeside benches at Arendsee
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Queen Arendsee Paddle Steamer
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But even on the new boat, the one-hour trip is great for exploring the sea.
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Boat Dock Arendsee
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Birdwatching stand at the Brietz ponds
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Stadtgraben Gardelegen
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Fischerhof Gahrns – Restaurant, Farm Shop & Fishing Park
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Schramper Eck Bathing Spot, Arendsee
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Tips from the Community
While the view from the observation tower is very limited – it is much too low – the pier offers a beautiful view of the lake and the shore.
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The Gahrns fish farm in Gardelegen is a traditional family business established in 1978. Originally specializing in trout farming, the farm has developed over the years into a versatile tourist destination. During the GDR era, it was the only private fish farm in the region. After reunification, the farm's offerings expanded, and since 1992, the farm has been a recognized master fish farm and training center. In addition to the fish farm, the farm now houses a restaurant serving regional specialties and a fishing park where visitors can catch trout from spacious ponds. The large terrace directly on the water is particularly attractive and is ideal for a break during a bike ride. Thus, the farm combines culinary delights with natural relaxation and invites you to linger.
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The boat dock in Zießau offers a beautiful view of Lake Arendsee and is the perfect place to take a relaxing break in the midst of nature. From here, you have a stunning view across the water to the opposite shore. The quiet shoreline, surrounded by reeds and gentle waves, creates an idyllic atmosphere – ideal for nature lovers. Especially in the morning or evening hours, a picturesque panorama unfolds, perfect for a short break or a photo opportunity. A brilliant location!
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The Queen Arendsee is a paddle-wheel steamer in the style of a Mississippi shuffle boat and is one of the main attractions on Lake Arendsee. A special highlight is that the Queen Arendsee houses the only floating registry office in Saxony-Anhalt. With space for around 120 people and an onboard restaurant, the ship offers regular tours from May to September. One tour offers impressive views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.
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The Schramper Eck on Lake Arendsee is a popular spot. The bathing area offers a sandy beach, benches, and a wonderful view that invites you to relax. The combination of seating and the beautiful view makes the Schramper Eck an ideal spot for a short rest during your hike.
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The pier in Zießau was even damaged as a result of the low water level. Due to the lack of water, the pontoons sank to the bottom of the lake and rubbed against concrete parts that had once been installed under the bridge - which turned out to be a big mistake in retrospect. The aluminum construction rubbed against it and large holes appeared. These were then professionally closed and the pontoons were usable again. Jens Freimann currently comments on the small incident of both parts disappearing on the lake with a smile. "But honestly, we weren't laughing at it. The wind had developed in such a way on the night in question that the two parts, prepared for transport from the repair site to the bridge, had become independent," said the head of the Zießau village club, which is responsible for the pier. (Source: https://www.az-online.de)
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Great water landscapes, to relax, boat, enjoy
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Snacks with hearty dishes. Of course there are also delicious ice cream sundaes and cakes, as well as coffee and cold drinks. (Source: https://luftkurort-arendsee.de)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Arendsee a popular destination in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel?
The Arendsee is the largest and deepest natural lake in the region, known for its excellent water quality, making it ideal for swimming. It offers a picturesque setting with surrounding forests and heathlands, and a variety of recreational activities like pedal boat tours and a giant slide at the lido. The lake is also very family-friendly.
Are there good places for swimming in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel?
Yes, the Arendsee is highly recommended for swimming due to its consistently excellent water quality. You can find dedicated spots like the Schramper Eck Bathing Spot, which is family-friendly and offers great views of the lake.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes?
You can enjoy a variety of activities. The Arendsee Lake Loop is perfect for walking or cycling, offering access to many lake entrances and sandy beaches. For more structured routes, explore our guides for easy hikes, cycling tours, and gravel biking in the region.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Arendsee Monastery Ruins are a significant historical site located directly on the shores of the Arendsee. It's a beautiful destination and a popular photo motif, adding a cultural dimension to your visit.
What facilities are available for families with children near the lakes?
The Arendsee area is very family-friendly. You'll find the Playground on the Arendsee lakeside promenade, which is great for strolling with lake views and offers benches for resting. The lido at Arendsee also features a 72-meter-long giant slide, and amenities like snack bars and ice cream trucks are available.
Where can I enjoy nature and wildlife observation?
The Birdwatching stand at the Brietz ponds offers a unique view of a valuable wetland habitat. It's an excellent spot to observe migratory and breeding birds like marsh harriers, snipe, and even white-tailed eagles. With luck, you might also spot otters and beavers.
Are there places to relax and eat near the lakes?
Yes, along the Arendsee, you can find several spots to relax. The Rest area and lakeside benches at Arendsee provide a great place for a break. There are also snack bars and ice cream trucks directly on-site, and the Fischerhof Gahrns offers a restaurant, farm shop, and fishing park.
What is the best way to explore the Arendsee by water?
You can explore the Arendsee by taking leisurely pedal boat tours. Another popular option is to ride the Queen Arendsee Paddle Steamer, which offers a unique perspective of the lake and its surroundings.
What kind of terrain can I expect around the lakes in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel?
The Altmarkkreis Salzwedel region is characterized by a plain countryside. Around the Arendsee, you'll find a mix of forests and heathlands, making for generally easy and pleasant walks or bike rides, as seen on the Arendsee Lake Loop.
Are there any other notable water bodies besides Arendsee?
While Arendsee is the most prominent, the region also features other natural lakes and ponds. The Brietz ponds are particularly noteworthy for their rich wetland habitat and birdwatching opportunities. The Stadtgraben Gardelegen also offers a pleasant water feature within a settlement setting.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Altmarkkreis Salzwedel?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, especially from spring to early autumn, when the weather is ideal for swimming, boating, hiking, and cycling. The excellent water quality of Arendsee makes it particularly appealing during summer for water activities.
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