Best lakes around Kühndorf are situated within the surrounding Landkreis Schmalkalden-Meiningen in Thuringia, offering diverse water-based recreational areas. This region features natural lakes formed from former quarries, historic reservoirs, and expansive bathing lakes. The landscape provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and enjoying natural beauty. Visitors can explore various water bodies, from tranquil ponds to larger recreational areas.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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You're used to seeing a summit cross from afar. That's not the case here. A good 10 meters before the cross, you'll hear a surprised "ahh!" But it's definitely a good place to rest! It's nice that there are plenty of rest stops all around.
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is significant for Meiningen...
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small but nice. The park is directly behind the theater and fenced off from the main road on two sides. This is a small idyll in the middle of the street madness
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The English Garden is a landscape park in the center of the southern Thuringian district town of Meiningen. It is one of the oldest and most worth seeing inner-city landscape parks in Germany. (Source: https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Englischer_Garten_(Meiningen))
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The artificial castle ruins once formed the main entrance to the English Garden. From the ruins you have a wonderful view of the pond. The staircase to the bank is, however, terribly littered and overgrown.
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The English Garden, the green heart of Meiningen, is an oasis for pedestrians, a place of peace and contemplation. Duke George I had the English Garden designed based on the Wörlitz Park. Artificial ruins and a lake were intended to convey atmosphere. The Johannes Brams Monument in 1899 was the first for the famous composer in Germany.
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The Ebertswiese Mountain Lake, formed from a former quarry, offers refreshingly cool water for swimming, typically not exceeding 20°C even in summer. Another excellent option is the bathing lake at Strandbad Breitungen, known for its wide sandy beach and excellent water quality.
Yes, the Tambach-Dietharz area, about 22-29 kilometers from Kühndorf, features two significant dams: the Alte Tambacher Talsperre and the Schmalwassertalsperre. The Alte Tambacher Talsperre, built between 1902 and 1905, was Thuringia's first drinking water reservoir and offers a marked 6 km hiking trail around it.
For families, Strandbad Breitungen is ideal with its sandy beach, playground, boat rentals, minigolf, and beach volleyball. The Waldschwimmbad Tambach-Dietharz is a historic outdoor pool with three basins, a diving board, water slide, and large sunbathing lawn. The Path Along the Untermaßfeld Fish Ponds is also noted as family-friendly, offering benches for relaxing.
The Ebertswiese Mountain Lake is directly on the famous Rennsteig hiking trail, making it a popular spot for hikers. The areas around the Alte Tambacher Talsperre and Schmalwassertalsperre also offer numerous trails with picturesque viewpoints. Additionally, the Breitunger Seen nature reserve has a 3.5 km hiking trail with seating areas.
Yes, the area around the Tambach-Dietharz dams is well-suited for cycling. The Path Along the Untermaßfeld Fish Ponds is part of the Werra Valley bike path. For more cycling routes, you can explore the Cycling around Kühndorf guide, which includes routes like the Haseltal Cycle Path.
The Breitunger Seen nature reserve is recognized for its abundant birdlife, including storks. The Path Along the Untermaßfeld Fish Ponds is home to duck families, offering a chance to observe local waterfowl.
Yes, the English Garden in Meiningen features a pond with artificial ruins, designed to convey atmosphere. The Hofteich Shelter is located near the Hofteich, a historical pond that is part of the historical surroundings of Belrieth. Marisfeld Castle Park also contains a picturesque small pond that once supplied a village mill.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty, from the clear waters of the Ebertswiese Mountain Lake to the tranquil birdlife at Breitunger Seen. The family-friendly amenities at Strandbad Breitungen and the scenic trails around the Tambach-Dietharz reservoirs are also highly valued for recreation and relaxation.
While specific rules vary, the Ebertshäuser Ponds are noted as dog-friendly. Many natural areas around the reservoirs and nature reserves generally allow dogs on leash, but it's always best to check local signage for specific regulations regarding swimming or off-leash areas.
The warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal for swimming, boating, and enjoying the outdoor amenities at places like Strandbad Breitungen and Waldschwimmbad Tambach-Dietharz. Hiking and cycling around the reservoirs and natural lakes are pleasant throughout spring, summer, and autumn, offering diverse scenery.
Yes, the 6 km circular trail around the Alte Tambacher Talsperre is a good option. The 3.5 km hiking trail at the Breitunger Seen nature reserve is also relatively easy, offering seating areas to enjoy the tranquility. The Path Along the Untermaßfeld Fish Ponds is a flat section of the Werra Valley bike path, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
While specific cafes directly at every lake are not detailed, recreational areas like Strandbad Breitungen often have facilities for refreshments. The towns near the larger lake areas, such as Tambach-Dietharz, will offer various dining options. For hikers, the Hofteich Shelter provides a resting place.


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