Top 20 Lakes around Oberwiesenthal
Best lakes around Oberwiesenthal are found in the surrounding Erzgebirge region, as Oberwiesenthal itself, Germany's highest city, is primarily known for its mountain landscapes. The area features several man-made lakes, often referred to as Talsperren, which serve various purposes from drinking water supply to recreation. These bodies of water offer diverse natural settings and opportunities for outdoor activities. The region's terrain provides a backdrop for exploring these water features.
Best lakes around Oberwiesenthal
- The most popular lakes is Cranzahl Dam, a lake that serves as a vital source of drinking water and provides flood protection. The circular path around the reservoir is suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
- Another must-see spot is Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant, a lake that is part of a pumped storage plant. Visitors can enjoy a beautiful path along the basin, suitable for breaks and inline skating.
- Visitors also love Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal, an idyllic pond hidden in the forest. This artificial pond is a good place to relax, offering seating and shelter.
- Oberwiesenthal is known for its dams, pumped storage plant basins, and artificial ponds. These offer a variety of experiences, from scenic walks around reservoirs to technical marvels and tranquil forest retreats.
- The lakes around Oberwiesenthal are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 780 upvotes and over 850 photos shared.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Cranzahl Dam
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Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant
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Anyway, it is a beautiful lake that is suitable for a break. You can fish in it or take a bath. The circuit around the upper basin is ideal for inline skating.
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Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal
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Markersbach Lower Reservoir Dam
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Markersbach Lower Reservoir Dam
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Tips from the Community
The Markersbach Unterbecken circular hiking trail begins here at the dam. The small hiking car park below the dam is a great starting point for your hike.
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The Black Pond can be reached from Crottendorf, Neudorf or Oberwiesenthal on touring skis if there is enough snow. It is at 920 above sea level.
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There are several "black ponds". One is between Gelenau and Auerbach, even with a Teichschänke. Popular naturist bathing pond
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The lower reservoir's dam (♁ location) is a 57 m high (51 m above valley floor) and 393 m long earth dam with an asphalt outer seal. It has a volume of around 920,000 m³, the area at full capacity is around 49 ha with a storage volume of 7.7 million m³. The maximum storage volume is 7.975 million m³. The dam crest is at 563 m above sea level. The dammed body of water is the Große Mittweida. After German reunification, responsibility and operation of the pumped storage plant was transferred to Vattenfall Europe. According to planning from 2010, the operating storage target at the lower reservoir was to be raised by 1.49 meters and at the upper reservoir by 1.71 meters. This would have increased the working water volume by 735,000 m³. This would have increased the turbine work by 510 MWh and the pump work by 650 MWh. The construction work was planned for the period from April 2015 to September 2016. However, this expansion was not realized. Until April 2016, a sale of the power plant was also discussed, but this did not happen. In 2020, the operator Vattenfall had 11,000 modules for a photovoltaic system installed below the dam crest of the upper reservoir. The solar park has a peak output of 4.3 MW and can use existing electrical technology.
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@Bonadea there is a 2nd Black Pond. It's in the Elterlein corner. This is your said "Big Pond". The Black Pond here is in Oberwiesenthal am Fichtelberg. I'm there every year. It is fed by moor water from the Zschopau, which also has its source nearby.
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Dam wall of the lower basin of the Markersbach pumped storage plant. Actually a dam.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find around Oberwiesenthal?
The region around Oberwiesenthal features primarily man-made lakes, often called Talsperren (dams) or reservoirs. These include drinking water reservoirs like Cranzahl Dam, basins for pumped storage plants such as the Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant, and artificial ponds like Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal, each offering unique experiences.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or water sports?
Yes, the Filzteich near Schneeberg is a popular natural lido offering swimming, waterslides, pedal boats, and stand-up paddling. Its water has a brownish tint due to moor substances, which is considered beneficial for health. The Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant also allows for bathing and fishing.
Which lakes are best for families with children?
The Filzteich is an excellent choice for families, featuring an 85-meter giant waterslide, a children's slide, a paddling pool with water attractions, an adventure playground, and extensive sandy beaches. The Cranzahl Dam and Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant also offer family-friendly circular paths for walks and breaks.
Can I hike or bike around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Cranzahl Dam has a 3.5-kilometer circular path ideal for hiking and mountain biking. The Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant also features a beautiful path suitable for walking and inline skating. For more extensive routes, you can explore various hiking and MTB trails in the wider Oberwiesenthal area.
Are there any historical lakes in the region?
Yes, the Filzteich near Schneeberg is one of Saxony's oldest dams, constructed between 1483 and 1485 for the Schneeberg mining industry. The Cranzahl Dam, built between 1949 and 1952, also has historical significance as one of the early large dam projects of the former GDR.
What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see?
The lakes are set amidst idyllic, wooded landscapes. The Cranzahl Dam offers wonderful views from its rest areas. Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal is an idyllic pond hidden in the forest, part of an extended nature reserve, providing a peaceful natural setting.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Oberwiesenthal?
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports at Filzteich. Spring and autumn provide pleasant conditions for hiking and biking around reservoirs like Cranzahl Dam. In winter, the circular path around Cranzahl Dam is also suitable for cross-country skiing, offering a serene snowy landscape.
Are dogs allowed at the lakes?
While specific regulations for each lake vary, many natural areas and trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check local signage for any restrictions.
Are there amenities like cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
The Filzteich natural lido offers amenities such as snack bars and an ice cream parlor. For other lakes, you might find facilities in nearby towns. It's advisable to check local information for specific options before your visit.
What kind of outdoor activities, besides hiking and biking, can I do?
Beyond hiking and biking, you can enjoy fishing at the Lower Basin of the Markersbach Pumped Storage Plant. The Filzteich offers beach volleyball, table tennis, pedal boating, and stand-up paddling. In winter, cross-country skiing is possible around Cranzahl Dam.
Is there public transport or parking available at the lakes?
Parking is generally available near popular lake destinations. For instance, there's a small hiking car park at the dam of the Markersbach Lower Reservoir, which serves as a good starting point for hikes. Public transport options to specific lakes may be limited, so checking local bus schedules or planning for car travel is recommended.
What makes the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/199281" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal</a> unique?
The Schwarzer Teich Oberwiesenthal is an idyllic artificial pond hidden in the forest, created in the late 16th century. It's known as a very good place to relax, offering seating and shelter. It also belongs to the extended nature reserve Hermannsdorfer meadows, Saxony's oldest designated nature reserve.
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