Best lakes around Nordhausen are characterized by clear, deep waters, many of which are former gravel pits. These aquatic landscapes in Thuringia, Germany, provide opportunities for recreation and support diverse ecosystems. The region's lakes are notable for their unique features, including underwater attractions and designated nature reserves. They offer varied environments for visitors to explore.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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The Dreibauerngrund gravel pit lake is located between Kehl-Goldscheuer and Neuried-Altenheim near the Pierre Pflimlin Bridge. The Dreibauerngrund-Süd area is completely closed to swimmers and anglers for nature conservation reasons and serves as a protected natural area (wildlife pasture). The body of water is therefore only suitable for walks, bike tours, and bird watching, for example, along the nearby Auen-Wildnispfad (Floodplain Wilderness Trail). For swimming, visitors must go to the official Goldscheuer bathing lake or the Fohlengarten gravel pit lake.
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Together with the boardwalk to the west, this is probably one of the most beautiful spots in the Rohrschollen Nature Reserve. A good description of Rohrschollen Island, its history, and some of the plants and animals found there can be found here in German: https://reserves-naturelles.strasbourg.eu/de/rohrschollen-insel/entdecken/ The page is also available in English and, of course, French. Simply click on the corresponding language code in the upper right corner.
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It has been quite some time without restaurants and without access.
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a small idyll (unfortunately many mosquitoes in summer)
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The green igloo is back in place!
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Very beautiful lake near the Dundenheimer Mill
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Dundenheim Mill In 1762, the Lahr miller Friedrich Zandel built a "flour mill with two gears, an oil and grating mill, and a bar" on the "Dundenheimer Hanfrötzendeich" on the Schutter River. After its destruction by arson on April 11, 1907, the then miller Uhl rebuilt the current buildings: a residential house with a guest room, a barn, and a stable. To the left of the Schutter River, a sandstone trough leads over the low-lying Unditz River. During the hemp cultivation era, water from the high-lying Schutter River was channeled into the Hanfrötzen River to soak the hemp stalks.
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Alteneimer car park (near the hotel), be careful: when parking it can flood very quickly!!!
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Visitors frequently enjoy Fohlengarten Lake, known for its clear waters and small island, ideal for swimming. Another favorite is the Swimming and barbecue area at Auen-Wildnispfad, which offers a family-friendly spot for recreation. For nature enthusiasts, Rohrschollen Island Nature Reserve provides an idyllic setting with expansive views and pure nature.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent swimming opportunities. Fohlengarten Lake is a beautiful clear lake that invites you to swim. The Swimming and barbecue area at Auen-Wildnispfad is also recommended for cooling down, especially for families. Additionally, the Vältinschollensee, also known as Meißenheimer gravel pit, is officially classified as an 'excellent' bathing place with freely accessible areas.
Nordhausen's lakes, particularly Sundhäuser See, offer unique diving experiences. Sundhäuser See is famous for its artificial sunken village called 'Nordhausia,' featuring submerged buildings, statues, and wrecks at around 10 meters depth. It's a popular regional dive site with clear water and a diving center offering equipment and air fills.
Absolutely. The Swimming and barbecue area at Auen-Wildnispfad is specifically highlighted as suitable for families and kids. Fohlengarten Lake is also considered family-friendly for swimming. The Nordhausen Town Park Ponds offer gondola rides and are home to diverse animal species, making them a pleasant family outing.
The lakes and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Sundhäuser See has populations of crawfish, pike, perch, and carp. The Seagull and Trout Lakes are designated nature reserves, serving as important retreats for fish and birds. The Nordhausen Town Park Ponds, thanks to ecological treatment, have seen an increase in observed species, including lizards, newts, and toads.
Yes, there are numerous trails. You can find various hiking routes around the lakes, such as the easy 'Passerelle Fuchs loop' from Erstein Forest National Nature Reserve (6.28 km) or the moderate 'Rhône–Rhine Canal – Canal Avenue loop' from Nordhouse (10.92 km). For more options, explore the Hiking around Nordhausen guide.
Beyond hiking, the region offers excellent opportunities for gravel biking and running. You can find challenging gravel biking routes like the 'André Bord Bridge – Footbridge of the Two Banks loop' (65.17 km) or various running trails, including the 'Running loop from Nordhouse' (8.6 km). Check out the Gravel biking around Nordhausen guide and the Running Trails around Nordhausen guide for detailed routes.
The clear waters of Nordhausen's lakes make them enjoyable throughout the warmer months for swimming and recreation. Sundhäuser See's excellent visibility is consistent, making it suitable for diving year-round, though water temperatures will vary. For nature observation and walks, spring and autumn offer pleasant conditions, while winter walks can also be serene.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or former gravel pits, the region does have historical elements. For instance, the Dundenheim Mill, originally built in 1762 and rebuilt in 1907, is a notable historical site nearby. The town of Nordhausen itself also has a rich history.
The main gravel pit lakes, such as Sundhäuser See and Bielener Kiesgewässer, are located in the south of Nordhausen, making them generally accessible. The Nordhausen Town Park, with its ponds, is centrally located and easily reachable for a pleasant stroll. Specific accessibility for trails around the lakes may vary, but many paths are suitable for easy walking.
Sundhäuser See is particularly special due to its unique underwater attractions. It features an artificial sunken village called 'Nordhausia,' complete with submerged buildings, statues, and wrecks, making it a premier diving destination. The lake's clear water ensures excellent visibility for divers exploring this fascinating underwater world.


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