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Germany
Thuringia
Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen

Kaltenwestheim

Top 18 Lakes around Kaltenwestheim

Lakes around Kaltenwestheim are found within the Rhön region, a diverse natural landscape of rolling hills, meadows, and forests in Thuringia. While Kaltenwestheim itself may not feature prominent named lakes, its location provides access to the broader Rhön Biosphere Reserve. This area offers various outdoor activities, including opportunities for exploring natural water bodies. The region is known for its unique cultural landscape in the heart of Germany.

Best lakes around Kaltenwestheim

  • The most popular lakes is Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail, a natural monument that features a two-kilometer-long boardwalk for discovering rare animal and plant species. This trail is recognized as the best-preserved and still-growing raised bog in Germany's low mountain ranges.
  • Another must-see spot is Grimmelbach Reservoir, a lake approximately 5 hectares in size. Visitors can enjoy views of the lake and its surrounding natural environment.
  • Visitors also love Great Moor Eye (Black Moor), an other natural feature that is a station on the nature trail. This spot provides information about the formation of smaller lakes within the bog and its unique flora and fauna.
  • Kaltenwestheim and the surrounding Rhön region are known for moor lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. The area offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, from natural monuments to recreational areas.
  • The lakes around Kaltenwestheim are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 2200 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 15, 2026

Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Natural Monument

On the nature trail through the moor – a two-kilometer-long boardwalk – you can discover rare animal and plant species. The Black Moor is the best-preserved and still-growing raised bog in Germany's low mountain ranges.

The moor is located in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, in the border triangle of Bavaria, Hesse, and Thuringia – a unique cultural landscape in the heart of Germany. The area offers a wealth of exciting outdoor excursions. You can find more information here: nationale-naturlandschaften.de/gebiete/biosphaerenreservat-rhoen.

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Great Moor Eye (Black Moor)

Highlight • Natural

The "Moorauge" is a station on the nature trail. This is about the formation of the smaller lakes in the bog. Along the footbridge, 23 information boards provide interesting information about the formation of the high moor and its flora and fauna.

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Basalt Lake Waterfall

Highlight • Waterfall

Very beautiful basalt lake. If it is not too dry, you can watch a wonderful waterfall.

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The cozy and well-kept rest area with a pond biotope and a wooden hut of the Rhönklub branch in Lahrbach is surrounded by tall beech trees and is protected on the edge of the forest.

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Grimmelbach Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

It is approximately 5 5 hectares in size. The deepest places are approx. 6...7m.

The most commonly caught fish here are pike, carp, perch, rudd, zander

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Popular around Kaltenwestheim

Stages of the HOCHRHÖNER Premium Hiking Trail

Wonderful Green Band

Hike Germany’s Rhön Mountains on the Hochrhöner Trail

Hiking around Kaltenwestheim

MTB Trails around Kaltenwestheim

Running Trails around Kaltenwestheim

Cycling around Kaltenwestheim

Road Cycling Routes around Kaltenwestheim

Gravel biking around Kaltenwestheim

Other adventures around Kaltenwestheim

Stages of the HOCHRHÖNER Premium Hiking Trail

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Tips from the Community

𝕾𝖙𝖊𝖕𝖍𝖆𝖓
June 29, 2025, Grimmelbach Reservoir

Great view of the lake and the surrounding area.

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5

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A very beautiful little natural pond, a nice resting place and a very beautiful environment can be found here.

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1

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On the nature trail through the moor – a two-kilometer-long boardwalk – you can discover rare animal and plant species. The Black Moor is the best-preserved and still-growing raised bog in Germany's low mountain ranges. The moor is located in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, in the border triangle of Bavaria, Hesse, and Thuringia – a unique cultural landscape in the heart of Germany. The area offers a wealth of exciting outdoor excursions. You can find more information here: https://nationale-naturlandschaften.de/gebiete/biosphaerenreservat-rhoen.

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2

0

Very nice tour

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FrankZa
December 10, 2024, Grimmelbach Reservoir

The slopes offer beautiful nature.

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1

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FrankZa
December 10, 2024, Grimmelbach Reservoir

A beautiful piece of nature from all sides.

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1

0

Nice little walk around the reservoir

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Reservoir in the middle of breathtakingly beautiful nature! A visit here is definitely worth it!

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10

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes and water bodies can I explore around Kaltenwestheim?

While Kaltenwestheim itself doesn't feature prominent named lakes, the surrounding Rhön region offers a variety of water bodies. You can explore unique moor lakes like the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail and the Great Moor Eye (Black Moor), which are natural monuments. There are also reservoirs such as the Grimmelbach Reservoir, and smaller ponds like the Gänskutte Pond and Picnic Area.

Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or water sports in the wider Rhön area?

Yes, in the wider Rhön region, the Guckaisee is a popular spot. It's divided into two sections, with one part designated for swimming, complete with a diving platform and sunbathing area. The other part is used for fishing, making it a versatile location for various water activities.

What natural attractions, besides lakes, are there to see near Kaltenwestheim?

The Rhön Biosphere Reserve, where Kaltenwestheim is located, is rich in natural beauty. Beyond the lakes, you can experience diverse landscapes including rolling hills, meadows, and forests. The Basalt Lake Waterfall is another unique natural monument worth visiting, especially when the waterfall is active after rain.

Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes near Kaltenwestheim?

Many areas are family-friendly. The Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail features a two-kilometer-long boardwalk, which is easy and manageable for everyone, including families. The Great Moor Eye (Black Moor) also offers educational information boards along its footbridge, making it an engaging experience for all ages. The Gänskutte Pond and Picnic Area provides a cozy rest area perfect for families.

What kind of hiking trails can I find near the lakes in the Rhön region?

The Rhön region offers a wealth of hiking opportunities. For example, the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail provides an easy circular route on a boardwalk. You can also find more challenging trails throughout the Rhön Biosphere Reserve. For a comprehensive list of hiking options, explore the Running Trails around Kaltenwestheim guide, which includes various routes with different difficulty levels.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes and natural areas?

While specific rules for each location vary, many natural areas in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve are generally dog-friendly, especially for walks on trails. For instance, the circular route through the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail is often enjoyed by visitors with dogs. Always ensure your dog is leashed and follow local regulations, especially in nature reserve areas.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Kaltenwestheim?

The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lush greenery, wildflowers, and warmer weather for walks and picnics. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage, especially around forested lakes. Even in winter, some areas like the Basalt Lake Waterfall can have a unique charm, though access might be limited by snow or ice.

Are there cycling opportunities near the lakes?

Yes, the Rhön region provides excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes suitable for gravel biking and mountain biking. For example, the Gravel biking around Kaltenwestheim guide lists routes like the 'Schwarzes Moor loop' which passes by the famous moor. The MTB Trails around Kaltenwestheim guide also offers several options.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and natural areas near Kaltenwestheim?

Visitors particularly appreciate the unique natural beauty and tranquility. The Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail is praised for its well-designed boardwalk and informative displays about rare species. The Grimmelbach Reservoir is noted for its breathtaking natural surroundings and great views. The overall appeal lies in the opportunity to connect with nature and explore the diverse landscapes of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve.

Where can I find amenities like cafes or picnic areas near the lakes?

Some locations offer amenities for visitors. The Gänskutte Pond and Picnic Area is a well-kept rest area with a pond biotope and a wooden hut, perfect for a break. For the Haunetalsperre, you can find dining options at the Zellmühle nearby. In general, the towns and villages within the Rhön region will offer various cafes, pubs, and accommodation options.

Is the Rhön Biosphere Reserve easily accessible from Kaltenwestheim?

Yes, Kaltenwestheim is nestled within the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the region's natural attractions. The area is known for its unique cultural landscape and offers a wealth of outdoor excursions, with many lakes and natural sites within a reasonable driving distance.

Are there any specific regulations or permits needed for visiting certain natural monuments?

Generally, access to natural monuments like the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail is open to the public without specific permits for entry. However, as these are protected areas within the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, visitors are expected to stay on marked paths, respect wildlife, and refrain from disturbing the natural environment. Always look for local signage regarding specific rules or restrictions.

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

UnterschönauZella-MehlisOberhofSteinbach-HallenbergBirxFloh-SeligenthalRotterodeErbenhausenAltersbachFrankenheim/RhönBermbachSchmalkaldenRhönblickOberweidWasungenMelpersSchwallungenBrotterode-TrusetalBrotterode-TrusetalBenshausenViernauRosaBreitungen/WerraFambachSpringstilleChristesHümpfershausenMeiningenVachdorfDillstädtKaltensundheimOepfershausenGrabfeldEllingshausenMetzelsSchwarzaUntermaßfeldObermaßfeld-GrimmenthalBelriethKühndorfFriedelshausenHennebergUtendorfRippershausenRitschenhausenMehmelsStepfershausenUnterweidSülzfeldWölfershausenWahnsUnterkatzOberkatzAschenhausen

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