Lakes around Knau, a village in the Saale-Orla-Kreis district of Thuringia, Germany, offer diverse aquatic landscapes. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Thuringian-Franconian Slate Mountains and a historic pond landscape. This area provides access to both large reservoirs and numerous smaller, interconnected ponds, making it a destination for various outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 31, 2026
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A beautiful stilt house on the pond in Plothen 🤩.
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In the land of 1000 ponds there are also 1000 things to discover... What a beautiful landscape.
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A beautiful circular route in a charming lake landscape.
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The circular route is very beautiful and well signposted. But you can also spontaneously take a different route; there are many good paths here and it is almost impossible to get lost. There are a few places to sit and rest at the first large pond with the stilt house, but there are a few at the other ponds.
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The nickname "Land of 1000 Ponds" is not a coincidence, as there used to be around 1,600 ponds in this area. Today there are around 600. The ponds are so-called sky ponds, i.e. they are fed by rainwater. They were laid out in a cascade shape and were partly connected by canals. For the time, the facility was a masterpiece. Source:https://vogtland-zauber.de/entdeckungen-wandern-plothener-teiche/
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You can hike around the pond area on a nature trail for around 7 kilometers on a circular route. There are numerous display and topic boards along the way. Source:https://vogtland-zauber.de/entdecken-wandern-plothener-teiche/
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This construction is not very pretty, but useful.
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The 43-meter-high tower is made of a steel and wood construction. The curved wood construction makes it architecturally interesting. You have to pay an entrance fee and climb 192 steps to get the great panoramic view. The Saale Tower is open until nightfall.
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Visitors frequently enjoy the unique Plothen Ponds, known for their wonderful landscape and birdwatching opportunities. Another popular spot is the Stilt House on Hausteich, a museum on a pond that offers insights into local history and is suitable for children. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail is also highly regarded for its scenic routes through the charming lake landscape.
Yes, several spots are great for families. The Stilt House on Hausteich is a museum that is particularly suitable for children. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail offers well-signposted routes of varying lengths, making it adaptable for families with younger children. The Plothener Seenplatte, with its interconnected ponds, provides opportunities for leisurely walks and observing nature.
The region offers diverse scenic views, from the expansive, fjord-like landscapes of the Bleilochtalsperre and Hohenwarte-Talsperre, set within the Thuringian-Franconian Slate Mountains, to the unique, historic pond landscape of the Plothener Seenplatte. You can also find impressive panoramic views from the Saale Tower, which overlooks the surrounding area.
Absolutely. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail is a beautiful route through a charming lake landscape with various length options. The Plothener Seenplatte also features numerous trails for leisurely walks or bike rides. For more hiking options, you can explore routes like the 'Idyllic Path by the Ponds' or 'Dörringenteich – Erich's Hut loop' which are part of the broader hiking guide for Knau.
Yes, swimming is possible in some of the ponds within the Plothener Seenplatte, such as the Hausteich. The Bleilochtalsperre, Germany's largest reservoir, also offers excellent conditions for swimming and other water sports.
The lakes near Knau are beautiful year-round, but the warmer months from spring to autumn are ideal for water sports, hiking, and cycling. During these seasons, the natural environment is vibrant, and facilities are typically fully operational. The Stilt House on Hausteich, for example, is open from April to October.
Yes, the region has historical significance. The Stilt House on Hausteich is a historical site and museum. The Plothener Seenplatte itself is a historic pond landscape created by monks in the Middle Ages. Additionally, the Saale Tower, while a viewpoint, is also a notable architectural structure.
Parking is generally available at popular access points and attractions around the lakes. For instance, the Saale Tower highlight mentions parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific locations for designated parking areas.
Beyond hiking, the large reservoirs like Bleilochtalsperre and Hohenwarte-Talsperre are excellent for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and boating. The area also offers numerous opportunities for cycling, including gravel biking and road cycling. You can find detailed routes in the gravel biking guide and road cycling guide for Knau.
Many trails in the natural areas around Knau's lakes are suitable for walks with dogs, especially the numerous paths within the Plothener Seenplatte. Always ensure your dog is kept on a leash, particularly in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and follow local regulations.
The Plothener Seenplatte, with its historical origins and diverse ecosystem, can feel like a hidden gem for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The sheer number of interconnected ponds offers a tranquil escape. The Stilt House on Hausteich, with its unique setting, also offers a distinctive experience.
Visitors frequently praise the wonderful pond landscapes, the recreational value, and the opportunities for birdwatching. The peaceful environment, the variety of hiking routes, and the chance to observe wildlife are also highly appreciated. Many find the area perfect for easy hikes and a quiet escape into nature.
While some facilities might have reduced hours, the natural beauty of the lakes can still be enjoyed in winter. Trails remain accessible for winter walks, offering a different, serene perspective of the frozen landscapes. Always check local conditions and opening times for specific attractions during the colder months.


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