Top 20 Lakes around Colmberg
Lakes around Colmberg are primarily found within the nearby Franconian Lake District, a significant recreational area in Franconia, Germany. This region features several artificial lakes, including the Brombachsee, Altmühlsee, and Rothsee, which serve as water reservoirs and popular destinations. Colmberg acts as a base for exploring these water bodies, which offer diverse recreational opportunities. The area provides a variety of lake experiences, from large reservoirs to smaller, natural ponds.
Best lakes around Colmberg
- The most popular lakes is Hirschteich (Altmühl spring), a lake considered by some to be the origin of the Altmühl river. This idyllically located small lake is found in a forest between Burgbernheim and Hornau.
- Another must-see spot is Scheer Pond, an ecologically mature still water in Middle Franconia. It is surrounded by broad rushes and reed beds, supporting diverse birdlife and other wildlife.
- Visitors also love Obernzenner See, an artificial lake with recreational grounds. It offers opportunities for sailing, surfing, and bathing, with facilities like a playground and beach cafe.
- Colmberg is known for its bathing lakes, natural ponds, and larger artificial reservoirs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests from swimming to nature observation.
- The lakes around Colmberg are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 460 upvotes and 190 photos shared.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Source of the Altmühl (Hornauer Pond)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Hirschteich (Altmühl spring)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Swimming area Obernzenner See
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Scheer Pond
Highlight • Lake
Its water was used to operate the Scheermühle until 1930. The pond developed into one of the most ecologically mature still waters in Middle Franconia.
The very shallow pond is surrounded by broad rushes, cattails and reed beds. In the scissor-shaped brook valleys, the wet and scattered meadows are cultivated in small parts. Davall sedge, globeflower and broadleaf orchid are found here.
More than sixty species of birds breed in the area, including the snipe, the water rail and the reed warbler. Notable guests are the lapwing, the red kite and the osprey.
A pedunculate oak-hornbeam forest grows on Bocksberg, in which almost all native woodpeckers breed. Toads and newts use the nearby pond for spawning. Over five thousand toads form one of the largest populations in the Frankenhöhe natural area.
The semi-dry turf on the slope below is grazed. Numerous dead wood beetles live in the striking old oak ponds, including the rare hermit.
Further information is available here: regierung.mittelfranken.bayern.de/aufg_abt/abt8/NSG/abt83002_NSG_32.htm
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Obernzenner See
Highlight • Lake
The lake is on the western edge of Obernzenn. It is flowed through by the Zenn, which emerges again below the dam. The Mölbenbächl and the Eisenbach as well as some springs on the lake bed also drain into the lake.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Colmberg.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautifully situated and very helpful in bad weather, but also suitable as protection from the sun in midsummer.
8
0
It's a beautiful place! Totally idyllic.
0
0
A beautiful lake that invites you to take a rest.
0
0
The Hirschteich is considered to be one of the three Altmühl sources. However, since this source dries up again and again in dry periods, it is considered unlikely. Since 1904, the Hornauer Weiher has been officially designated as the Altmühl source.
8
0
The Hornauer Weiher is considered to be the origin of the Altmühl, but it is probably the nearby deer pond.
8
2
The Hornauer Weiher is officially considered to be the source of the Altmühl, but it is probably the nearby Hirschteich.
9
2
It's a beautiful lake though. But we haven't been there for a while and everything has been completely rebuilt. Everything is now forbidden. In places where you could previously lie down, everything has been leveled and provided with stones and you are now only allowed to bathe in one place. It is relatively small and anyone who likes crowds and shouting will definitely feel at home there. A pity.
3
0
An idyllic pond in the forest that belongs to the headwaters of the Altmühl.
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary lakes to explore near Colmberg?
While Colmberg itself doesn't have large lakes, it's an excellent base for the renowned Franconian Lake District. This district features several artificial lakes like the Brombachsee (including Großer Brombachsee, Kleiner Brombachsee, and Igelsbachsee), Altmühlsee, and Rothsee, all offering diverse recreational opportunities. Locally, you can visit the idyllic Hirschteich (Altmühl spring), the ecologically rich Scheer Pond, and the relaxing Colmberg Bathing Lake.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Colmberg?
Yes, many lakes in the Franconian Lake District are very family-friendly. The Altmühlsee, for example, has sandy beaches, wide sunbathing lawns, and shallow bathing areas, along with playgrounds and bungee trampolines. The Brombachsee also offers playgrounds and a summer toboggan run nearby. Closer to Colmberg, the Colmberg Bathing Lake is quiet and features a small playground and sun loungers. The Swimming area Obernzenner See also provides a lawn and facilities suitable for families.
What water sports can I enjoy at the lakes near Colmberg?
The larger lakes in the Franconian Lake District offer a wide range of water sports. At Brombachsee, you can enjoy swimming, diving, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, jet skiing, and boating. The Altmühlsee is popular for swimming, surfing, sailing, kitesurfing, boating, and fishing. Rothsee is great for swimming, surfing, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Many locations offer boat rentals.
Are there opportunities for hiking and cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Franconian Lake District is well-equipped with paths for outdoor activities. The Großer Brombachsee features a 30-kilometer-long cycle path perfect for family bike tours, inline skating, and hiking. The Altmühlsee has a wide, 12.5-kilometer-long circular path ideal for walking and cycling. For more specific routes, you can explore various running trails, gravel biking routes, and road cycling routes around Colmberg that often pass by these beautiful water bodies.
Can I take a boat cruise on any of the lakes?
Yes, you can. The Großer Brombachsee offers cruises on Europe's largest trimaran passenger ship, the "MS Brombachsee," which also transports bicycles. On the Altmühlsee, the "MS Altmühlsee" passenger ship provides regular trips, including pirate-themed adventures for children, connecting the lake's recreational centers.
What natural features or wildlife can I observe at these lakes?
The lakes offer diverse natural experiences. The Altmühlsee is home to a significant bird island (Vogelinsel), one of Bavaria's most important protected areas for migratory birds, with nature trails and an observation tower. The Scheer Pond is an ecologically mature still water surrounded by rushes and reed beds, supporting over sixty species of birds, including the snipe and reed warbler, as well as amphibians like toads and newts.
Are there facilities available at the bathing lakes near Colmberg?
Yes, several lakes offer facilities for visitors. The Colmberg Bathing Lake has a small playground, a rest area, and sun loungers. The Swimming area Obernzenner See provides a lawn and a small bistro, along with clean toilets. At Rothsee, the Seezentrum Heuberg offers an inn, kiosk, showers, and changing facilities, plus a Bavarian Red Cross rescue station.
Is it possible to bring dogs to the lakes near Colmberg?
Some areas around the lakes are dog-friendly. For instance, the Brombachsee has designated dog beaches. The Rothsee also features three dedicated recreational areas, including one with a dog beach. It's always recommended to check local regulations for specific areas, especially regarding leash laws and swimming restrictions for dogs.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Colmberg?
The lakes are most popular during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September), when water sports, swimming, and outdoor activities are in full swing. This period offers pleasant temperatures for cycling, hiking, and enjoying the beaches. However, the scenic paths around the lakes are also suitable for walks in cooler seasons, offering a different, quieter experience.
Where can I find quiet spots for relaxation by the water?
For a tranquil experience, the Colmberg Bathing Lake is known as a quiet bathing lake suitable for relaxing in nature. The Hirschteich (Altmühl spring), nestled in a forest, also offers an idyllic and peaceful setting. Even the larger lakes have less crowded sections, particularly outside peak season or away from the main recreational centers.
Are there any unique natural monuments or sources of rivers near the lakes?
Yes, the area is notable for its natural origins. The Hirschteich (Altmühl spring) is considered by some to be the origin of the Altmühl river, located in a forest between Burgbernheim and Hornau. The Source of the Altmühl (Hornauer Pond) is also officially considered the source, offering a quiet spot away from traffic.
Most popular routes around Colmberg
Most popular attractions around Colmberg
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Colmberg? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
