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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Städteregion Aachen

Rursee Obersee

Top 20 Lakes around Rursee Obersee

Best lakes around Rursee Obersee are nestled within the Eifel National Park, forming an interconnected system of reservoirs. This region is vital for drinking water supply and serves as a popular destination for recreation. The landscape features deep blue waters set against green forests, offering distinct experiences across its various lake sections. The Rursee, Obersee, and Urftsee collectively define this Eifel lake district.

Best lakes around Rursee Obersee

  • The most popular lakes is Urft Dam, a man_made_monument that was once the largest reservoir in Europe when built at the beginning of the 20th century. The reservoir lies entirely within the Eifel National Park, emphasizing its pristine natural setting.
  • Another must-see spot is Obersee at Einruhr, a lake that is a beautiful piece of nature, particularly the non-navigable part. This area offers various options for visitors, including snack bars and hotel restaurants.
  • Visitors also love Urft Reservoir Trail, a trail that leads directly along the shore. This trail offers continuous views of the Urft and the towering green mountains, making it suitable for everyone.
  • Rursee Obersee is known for large reservoirs, natural swimming areas, and scenic lake trails. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those vital for drinking water to those popular for water sports.
  • The lakes around Rursee Obersee are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4900 upvotes and over 3500 photos shared.

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Urft Dam

Highlight • Monument

When the dam was built at the beginning of the 20th century, the Urftsee was the largest reservoir in Europe. The reservoir lies entirely within the Eifel National Park, where nature is allowed to run free in many places. There is a place to stop for refreshments right next to the dam. A special feature for Germany is that the Rursee is located right at the foot of the dam.

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View of the Rursee

Highlight • Viewpoint

Great views of the Rurtalsperre - I almost felt like I was in Canada. 😀

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View of the Rursee

Highlight • Viewpoint

From here you have a great view of the wild and romantic embankment of the Rursee.

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Paulushof Dam

Highlight • Monument

The Paulushofdamm separates the Obersee from the Rursee. From here you can hike or cycle left on the Rursee in the direction of the Schwammenauel dam or right on the Urftseerandweg to the Urftsee dam.

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Urft Reservoir Trail

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The hiking trail leads directly along the shore. Always great views of the Urft and the towering green mountains.

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Tips from the Community

Stefan 🚴‍♀‍
June 10, 2024, Paulushofdamm

The ideal starting point for a walk around the Rursee (approx. 27km). It is also not far to the Urft Dam (approx. 4km) and the former Nazi Ordensburg Vogelsang (approx. 10km).

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The Paulusdamm near the town of Rurberg separates the (actual) Rursee from the Obersee. The latter begins at Einruhr, where the Rur - coming from Monschau or further up the Belgian Fens - flows into the Obersee. This is a valuable water protection area and supplies many people in the greater Aachen area with drinking water. The Rursee below is also used by many water sports enthusiasts. The banks of the Obersee and Rursee are partly part of the Eifel National Park.

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Rombea
May 2, 2022, Paulushofdamm

Worth seeing barrier system, the Rurtalsperre and the Rursee is definitely worth a trip.

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Rombea
May 2, 2022, Urft Dam

The Urttalsperre is the oldest dam in the Eifel and a popular destination. The dam wall was the largest structure in Europe at the time, has a length of 266 m and a height of 59 m. There is a nice excursion restaurant at the dam wall, which you can reach by boat, bus, car, bike or on foot. The Urftsee is also a very beautiful hiking area with a great path along the shore, which always offers a beautiful view of the Ordensburg Vogelsang.

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Great lake, which is also used by electrically operated ferries.

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7

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Great to walk this way. Many benches invite you to linger.

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EifelFranke
September 13, 2021, View of Rursee

Here you can relax and stroll along the shore while your gaze wanders over the lake.

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Didada
May 30, 2021, View of Rursee

This section is also not so crowded.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular natural attractions around Rursee Obersee?

The region is renowned for its interconnected system of reservoirs within the Eifel National Park. Key natural attractions include the vast Rursee, the serene Obersee, and the historic Urftsee. The Obersee at Einruhr is particularly appreciated for its beautiful, non-navigable sections, offering a quiet natural experience.

Are there good hiking trails around the Rursee and Obersee?

Yes, the area offers extensive hiking opportunities. The Urft Reservoir Trail is a popular choice, leading directly along the shore with continuous views of the Urft and surrounding green mountains. The Rursee itself features a popular 27-kilometer circular route, and the 17-kilometer 'Waterland Route' circles both the Obersee and Urftsee, offering breathtaking views within the Eifel National Park.

What kind of water sports can I do on the Rursee?

The Rursee is a hub for water sports, offering opportunities for sailing, surfing, canoeing, paddleboating, kayaking, and fishing. You can also enjoy relaxing boat trips on vessels like the 'Stella Maris' or 'Aachen'.

Can I swim in the lakes around Rursee Obersee?

Yes, the Rursee features several designated bathing areas with sandy beaches and sunbathing lawns, including the Beach Club Eifel (Eschauel natural swimming pool), Rurberg natural swimming pool, and Einruhr natural swimming pool. Swimming in the Obersee is generally restricted due to its role in drinking water supply, but specific natural bathing areas, such as the one in Einruhr, are available.

Are there any significant historical landmarks in the Rursee Obersee region?

The region features notable man-made structures with historical significance. The Urft Dam, for instance, was once the largest reservoir in Europe when constructed at the beginning of the 20th century. Another key landmark is the Paulushof Dam, which separates the Obersee from the Rursee and is a starting point for various trails.

What is the best time to visit the Rursee Obersee region?

The region is beautiful year-round, but the warmer months from spring to autumn are ideal for enjoying water sports, hiking, and cycling, when the deep blue waters are set against lush green forests. Winter offers a different, serene experience, especially for those interested in quieter walks.

Are there family-friendly activities available around the lakes?

Yes, the region is very family-friendly. Many natural bathing areas on the Rursee are perfect for families. The Obersee at Einruhr offers various options for visitors, including snack bars and hotel restaurants. Gentle hiking trails like the Urft Reservoir Trail are suitable for all ages, and boat trips on the Rursee or electric ships on the Obersee provide relaxing experiences for families.

What cycling routes are available near the Rursee and Obersee?

The area boasts approximately 240 kilometers of well-marked cycling trails. For a comprehensive overview of cycling options, including routes around the Rursee and through the Eifel countryside, you can explore the Cycling around Rursee Obersee guide. There are routes for various difficulty levels, from moderate to difficult.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints of the lakes?

Many spots offer stunning views. The Paulushof Dam provides panoramic views of both the Obersee and Rursee. The Urft Reservoir Trail also offers continuous great views of the Urft and its surrounding mountains. Additionally, electric ship tours on the Obersee provide unique perspectives of the Eifel National Park landscape.

What dining options are available near the lakes?

Charming lake resorts like Rurberg, Woffelsbach, and Einruhr offer various places to relax and dine. Specifically, near the Obersee at Einruhr, you'll find snack bars and hotel restaurants.

Are there mountain biking opportunities in the Rursee Obersee area?

Yes, the region offers mountain biking trails. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, you can check out the Mountain Hikes around Rursee Obersee guide, which includes routes like the 'Heimbach Reservoir loop' and 'Taucherbucht loop'.

What makes the Obersee unique compared to the Rursee?

The Obersee serves as the main pre-basin for the Rurtalsperre and is crucial for drinking water supply. This means motorized water sports are not permitted, and it offers a more serene and quiet natural experience. Electric ships provide silent tours, allowing visitors to enjoy the unique landscape of the Eifel National Park in tranquility, contrasting with the more active water sports scene on the Rursee.

Most popular routes around Rursee Obersee

Cycling around Rursee Obersee

Most popular attractions around Rursee Obersee

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

SimmerathMonschauEinruhrHerzogenrathRoetgenBaesweilerRur DamHürtgenwaldEschweilerWürselenKalltalsperreBlausteinseePerlenbachtalsperreEschweiler Stadtwald

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