Best lakes around Neu Kaliß are characterized by picturesque riverine landscapes, with the Elbe River and Neue Löcknitz defining much of the area's natural beauty. While large, prominent lakes are not directly within the town, smaller local water features like the Schmölener Brack are present. The region offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, and water-based recreation, integrating into the broader Mecklenburg Lake District. Visitors can explore diverse natural landscapes and observe local wildlife.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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A beautiful circular tour, whether on foot or by bike. The bike should be off-road capable, though. In summer, there's probably a lot of sugar sand.
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The place can only be reached from Rüterberg via a somewhat bumpy road. But it is very idyllic.
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Nice to bathe
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smoky waters on the Elbe During floods, dykes and troughs and depressions that accompany watercourses can be subject to an undercurrent, especially in the case of coarse-pored, sandy-gravelly ground. Due to the water pressure of the high river level, the dike is then underflowed by groundwater. It often comes to the surface immediately behind the dyke and forms temporary flat water. The water escapes sometimes "bubbling" or "smoking" because air stored in the ground is pushed up. This phenomenon is commonly referred to as smoky water or crowded water. Where very high amounts of smoke water occur, a smoke dike is sometimes built parallel to the land side of the dike on agricultural areas in order to secure the wider area. In nature reserves, on the other hand, smoke water is a desired effect that is the basis for very valuable biotopes. These offer a certain landscape-ecological partial replacement for the floodplain that was lost due to the covering. On the middle Elbe, where temporary smoky water occurs particularly frequently, these are habitats for amphibians that are rare elsewhere, such as the fire-bellied toad, the moor frog or the tree frog, as well as refuges for Tadpole Shrimp. The rest of the water that presses through a dyke during high water and emerges on the inner embankment is called Drangwasser, Kuverwasser, Köhrwasser, spring water or sweat water. (https://www.biologie-seite.de/Biologie/Qualmwasser)
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Especially in summer, when the frogs croak, wonderful acoustics.
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Beautiful and large lake, I will definitely come back to look for photo opportunities here (unfortunately it rained quite a bit last time). On my first visit it took me a long time to find a way to access the lake, but then I discovered a forest path to the northwestern shore of the lake. The next time I visit I would like to take a closer look at the lake and the surrounding area (e.g. the circular route around the lake), I hope I like the lake so much that I can give it a fifth star (I can imagine the Rudower See deserves it, so far I've just seen too little).
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The Bracks Smoked Water are located directly on the Elbe dike and the Elbe Cycle Path. A very nice area for cycling or hiking. You have good opportunities to watch birds here and from April to August you can hear the mating call of the fire-bellied toad.
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Neu Kaliß is characterized by its picturesque riverine landscapes, primarily the Elbe River and the Neue Löcknitz. While large, prominent lakes are not directly within the town, you'll find smaller local water features like the Schmölener Brack, as well as several brackish lakes and oxbow lakes. The broader region also includes significant lakes like the Schaalsee.
You can swim at Besandten Brack, a medium-sized brackish lake located right next to the Elbe dike. The Rudower See also has two unofficial swimming areas near Lenzen and Leuengarten.
Yes, the region offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. Rüterberger Brack is a beautifully situated brackish lake that is a wonderful area for both activities. The Elbe Cycle Route runs along the Elbe River, providing scenic paths. You can find many routes, including easy hikes, gravel biking, and MTB trails, in the area. For detailed routes, check out the easy hikes around Neu Kaliß, gravel biking around Neu Kaliß, and MTB trails around Neu Kaliß guides.
The riverine landscapes and bracks are rich in wildlife. Along the Elbe River and at Meadows, Oxbow Lakes and Ancient Oaks on the Elbe Dike, you can often spot wild animals and various bird species like white-tailed eagles, kestrels, cranes, grey herons, beavers, and otters. The Qualmwasser Depression Barnitz is a habitat for moor frogs, pond newts, and garlic toads, and is a good spot for bird watching.
Yes, several spots are suitable for families. Rüterberger Brack and Besandten Brack are considered family-friendly. The Qualmwasser Depression Barnitz offers well-designed information boards, making it an educational stop for children interested in nature. Canoeing on the tranquil Neue Löcknitz River is also a great family activity.
Absolutely. The Neue Löcknitz River is highly recommended for canoeing, offering a wild and romantic experience through dense vegetation and impressive trees. You can also explore the Elbe River by canoe or raft. Designated landing spots are available to protect sensitive habitats. For more information, you can check out tours like In a Kayak through the Löcknitz Jungle or the Löcknitz Tour through the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve River Landscape Elbe.
The region is enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring is ideal for observing tadpoles and molt larvae at spots like the Qualmwasser Depression Barnitz. Summer offers opportunities for swimming at Besandten Brack and experiencing the vibrant insect life and the croaking of frogs. The picturesque riverbanks are great for hiking and cycling from spring to autumn.
Yes, Meadows, Oxbow Lakes and Ancient Oaks on the Elbe Dike offers a wonderful view of the floodplain landscape between the Elbe and the Elbe dike. The Qualmwasser Depression Barnitz also provides good vantage points with information boards.
Beyond the rivers and bracks, you can explore the unique inland dune landscape near the Schmölener Brack, which is featured in hiking routes like the Schmölener Brack – Klein Schmölen Inland Dune loop. The area also boasts impressive ancient oaks, particularly visible from the Elbe Cycle Path.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes, from tranquil ponds to expansive river views. The opportunities for observing wildlife, the peaceful atmosphere for breaks, and the well-maintained paths for cycling and hiking are frequently highlighted. The unique character of the brackish lakes and oxbow lakes, formed by past dike breaches, also adds to the appeal.
While not directly in Neu Kaliß, the Schaalsee is a significant lake in the broader region and is accessible with a short drive. It offers untouched nature and breathtaking views, with circular hiking trails available for exploration, making it a worthwhile regional excursion.


Still not found your perfect lake around Neu Kaliß? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.