Best lakes around Vilshofen an der Donau offer diverse recreational opportunities. Situated on the Danube River, the region provides access to several lakes, including reservoirs and bathing ponds. The surrounding landscape, part of the Bavarian Forest, features scenic views and hiking trails. These natural and man-made bodies of water serve for power generation, swimming, and relaxation.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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At the western end of the dam there is a beautiful lawn where you can swim. If you cross the dam and follow the narrow hiking path on the east side after the turnstile for about 1km, you will reach a small meadow. There you can also sunbathe naked in peace. When I visited in August 2024 there were only a few visitors and it was wonderfully quiet and relaxed.
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Beautiful bathing pond Sattlinger Weiher.
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The Sattlinger Weiher is worth a visit at any time of year!
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Cycling is prohibited on the path around the lake. It's best to leave your bike behind, hike around the lake and then continue on your bike.
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For swimming and relaxation, the Oberilzmühle Reservoir is an excellent choice. It features a firm jetty for easy access, a free jetty in the center, and large meadows for sunbathing. The Sattlinger Pond is also consistently highlighted as a beautiful bathing pond, ideal for a refreshing dip.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The Oberilzmühle Reservoir is considered a family-friendly recreation area, offering space for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking. Taferl Lake and Sattlinger Pond are also noted as family-friendly spots for relaxation and bathing.
The lakes offer diverse natural features. The Oberilzmühle Reservoir provides scenic views and is surrounded by the Bavarian Forest. Taferl Lake, a former quarry, offers a unique natural setting for peace and quiet. Additionally, the Ilz Dam and Fish Ladder provides beautiful views over the dam and the Ilz River.
Absolutely. The area around the Oberilzmühle Reservoir is a popular starting point for various hiking tours, including sections of the Goldsteig and Pandurensteig trails. You can find more hiking options in the region by exploring the Hiking around Vilshofen an der Donau guide, which includes routes like the 'View of Schweiklberg Abbey – Taferl Lake loop'.
Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. While at the Oberilzmühle Reservoir, you can enjoy activities like volleyball, badminton, and frisbee on the large open-air lawn. For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous MTB Trails around Vilshofen an der Donau and Road Cycling Routes, such as the 'Wolfach Cycle Path – Vilstal Cycle Path loop'.
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time largely depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and sunbathing, the warmer months are ideal. Hiking and cycling can be enjoyed from spring through autumn, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. The Sattlinger Pond is noted as being 'worth a visit at any time of year'.
Yes, near the Oberilzmühle Reservoir, you'll find the 'Stausee-Stüberl' restaurant, which offers Bavarian meals and a beer garden with views of the Ilz River. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local listings for nearby cafes, restaurants, or pubs in the surrounding towns.
Specific parking details for each lake are not extensively documented, but generally, popular recreational areas like the Oberilzmühle Reservoir and Sattlinger Pond typically have designated parking areas for visitors. For hiking trails, starting points often have parking available.
While specific dog-friendly rules for each lake are not detailed, many natural areas in Bavaria welcome dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. It's always recommended to observe local signage and be considerate of other visitors and wildlife. The region's hiking trails are generally suitable for walks with dogs.
Taferl Lake is unique because it formed from a quarry that filled with water. It's appreciated for its peaceful atmosphere and offers a quiet spot for relaxation and rest, making it a worthwhile detour for those seeking tranquility.
The view over the Ilz Dam is described as inspiring boat trips on the Ilz River. While the dam itself is a functional structure, boat tours on the Ilz River can be organized, sometimes leading to the Ilz reservoir for swimming and sunbathing, offering a different perspective of the area.
The Oberilzmühle Reservoir, also known as Haslach-Speicher, serves a dual purpose. It was created for hydropower generation by a plant built between 1951 and 1955. Additionally, it functions as a popular recreational area suitable for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.


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