Top 8 Lakes in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide

The region offers diverse natural features. For instance, the Senkungssee Elsbach (Pfingstsee) is notable for its distinctive appearance with dead trees rising from the water, a result of ongoing mining subsidence. The Heidesee, a former gravel pit, is known for its clear water and rich underwater vegetation, providing a habitat for rare charophyte species. The Weihnachtssee, formed by mining subsidence, features developing reed beds and riparian forests.

Yes, several lakes are well-suited for families. The Heidhofsee, for example, is integrated into a recreational concept with circular walking paths and features play and sunbathing lawns on its southern shore. The historic Heidhof nearby also offers picnic areas. Many highlights, such as the Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath and View of Heidesee (East Shore), are also categorized as family-friendly.

The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in biodiversity. You can often spot various waterfowl like great crested grebes and tufted ducks, especially around the Heidesee. The Weihnachtssee's reed beds and riparian forests provide habitats for specialized animal and plant species. The broader Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide is also home to black woodpeckers, great white egrets, kingfishers, and even a remnant population of adders.

The area around the lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, cycling, and road cycling. For example, there are several running trails around the Heidesee, such as the 'View of the Heidesee – Heidesee loop'. You can explore more options for running, cycling, and road cycling in the Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide.

Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The View of Heidesee (East Shore) offers a great perspective of the Heidesee, complete with a bench for a relaxing break. The Elsbachsee (Pfingstsee) can be viewed from a dam that traverses it, providing a unique observational experience. Additionally, a small observation hut offers a vantage point over the Weihnachtssee.

The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. However, for pleasant walks and outdoor activities, spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can be popular, especially on weekends, with more visitors around the Heidesee. Winter offers a different, tranquil experience for hiking, though some areas might be less accessible.

Yes, circular walking paths are available, particularly around the Heidhofsee, which is part of a recreational area. The Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath also has varied trails through the forest and along its shores, inviting visitors to bypass the lake. These paths are generally easy to navigate and suitable for leisurely strolls.

Visitors frequently praise the diverse nature and tranquil atmosphere. Many enjoy the varied trails around lakes like the Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath. The unique landscape of the Senkungssee Elsbach (Pfingstsee) with its dead trees is often highlighted as an interesting sight. The opportunity for quiet recreation, nature observation, and beautiful views, such as from the View of Heidesee (East Shore), are also highly valued.

While the lakes themselves are primarily natural areas, the historic Heidhof near the Heidhofsee provides picnic areas. Additionally, near the Senkungssee Elsbach (Pfingstsee), there is a kiosk at Heidhof that is typically open on weekends during the season, offering refreshments.

The lakes in Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller Heide have diverse origins. The Heidesee, for instance, originated from a former gravel pit. Other lakes like the Weihnachtssee and Elsbachsee (Pfingstsee) were formed more recently due to mining subsidence, where water collected in depressions caused by underground mining activities. The Heidhofsee was created by the mining of quartz sands and has since been integrated into a recreational area.

While the Heidesee offers clear water and some sections for quiet recreation and sunbathing, bathing is generally prohibited to protect the sensitive ecosystems and ensure visitor safety. The lakes are primarily for nature observation and walks rather than swimming.

The time required to walk around the lakes varies. For example, the Heidesee has paths that invite you to bypass the lake, and a full circuit can take a couple of hours depending on your pace and chosen route. The Heidhofsee also features circular walking paths. Shorter walks are possible, and specific running routes around the Heidesee range from approximately 3 km to 8 km, giving an indication of typical walking times.