Best attractions and places to see around Nesthauser Lake include a variety of sites, from religious buildings to scenic trails and dining options. Located in the Paderborn suburb of Elsen, Nesthauser Lake offers a tranquil setting for exploration. The area features a lake loop trail and several points of interest situated directly on its shores. Visitors can discover 9 distinct attractions, providing options for different interests.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Religious Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Nesthauser Lake.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
In 1992/93, the Paderborn restorer Anton Ochsenfarth (1926–2004) built a chapel in honor of the Merciful Jesus. He was inspired by his religious lifestyle, a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, and a visit to the shrine in Krakow. Following an architectural competition with various designs, an octagonal structure was erected, situated directly on the shores of Lake Nesthauser in the Paderborn suburb of Elsen. After completion of the structural concrete frame, the spaces between the walls were filled with masonry and faced with rubble stone. The roof was covered with lead and crowned with a glass dome. Against the picturesque backdrop of the lake, the chapel sometimes appears like a diamond.
0
0
In 1992/93, the Paderborn restorer Anton Ochsenfarth (1926–2004) built a chapel in honor of the Merciful Jesus. He was inspired by his religious lifestyle, a pilgrimage to Medjugorje, and a visit to the shrine in Krakow. Following an architectural competition with various designs, an octagonal structure was erected, situated directly on the shores of Lake Nesthauser in the Paderborn suburb of Elsen. After completion of the structural concrete frame, the spaces between the walls were filled with masonry and faced with rubble stone. The roof was covered with lead and crowned with a glass dome. Against the picturesque backdrop of the lake, the chapel sometimes appears like a diamond.
0
0
Directly on Lake Nesthauser is the Chapel of the Merciful Jesus, beautifully situated with benches that invite you to take a break.
0
0
The Chapel of Mercy is a privately built chapel. The chapel contains wall and ceiling paintings created by artists.
0
0
delicious soft ice cream
0
0
Delicious burgers and other dishes - fresh ducks in autumn - TOP!
1
0
Always good, especially after a hike or bike ride.
2
0
It is much quieter here than on the way around the Lippesee.
2
0
The area around Nesthauser Lake offers a mix of religious buildings, scenic trails, and dining facilities. Key attractions include the Dismas Chapel by the Lake and the popular Nesthauser Lake Loop trail.
Yes, visitors can explore several religious buildings. The Dismas Chapel by the Lake, also known as the Chapel of the Merciful Jesus at Nesthauser See, is an octagonal structure built in the early 1990s directly on the lake's shores. Another notable site is the Mercy Chapel, which features unique wall and ceiling paintings.
The most prominent trail is the Nesthauser Lake Loop, a 3.6 km circular path that allows you to fully explore the lake's perimeter. It primarily consists of a wide gravel path, offering a quieter alternative to other local lakes. For more hiking options in the broader area, you can find various easy hikes on the Easy hikes around Nesthauser Lake guide.
Yes, Nesthauser Lake offers family-friendly options. The Nesthauser Lake Loop is suitable for families, and the area generally provides a range of attractions to explore together. Dining spots like Brinkmann's Braterei are also considered family-friendly.
For a snack or meal, especially after a walk or bike tour, Brinkmann's Braterei is highly recommended. It's known for tasty food and is a nice place to stop and relax.
Beyond walking, the area around Nesthauser Lake is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes for both mountain biking and road cycling. Explore options like the MTB Trails around Nesthauser Lake or the Road Cycling Routes around Nesthauser Lake guides for detailed tours.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil setting and the ability to completely circle the lake on the Nesthauser Lake Loop. Many find it a quieter and very good alternative to more crowded local lakes. The chapels by the lake are also frequently visited and admired for their beautiful location.
The entire Nesthauser Lake Loop offers scenic views of the lake. The chapels, particularly the Dismas Chapel by the Lake, are situated directly on the shores and provide picturesque backdrops, sometimes appearing like a diamond against the water.
Yes, the Nesthauser Lake Loop is an easy 3.6 km path, mostly gravel, making it suitable for beginners and those seeking a relaxed walk. It's a gentle route that allows for a pleasant experience around the lake.
While specific regulations for dogs are not detailed, the Nesthauser Lake Loop is a popular walking trail, and such paths in natural settings are generally dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The area itself, particularly the quiet nature of Nesthauser Lake compared to other local lakes, can be considered a hidden gem. The unique architecture and artistic details of the privately built Mercy Chapel, with its wall and ceiling paintings, might also be considered a lesser-known highlight for those interested in art and religious sites.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: