Best lakes around Listertalsperre are primarily the Listersee and the larger Biggesee, interconnected as part of a major dam system in the Sauerland region. The Listersee functions as a forebay to the Biggesee and is a designated bathing lake. This area offers diverse recreational opportunities within the Biggesee-Listersee nature adventure area, known for its clear waters and extensive network of trails.
Last updated: May 20, 2026
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A really great view of the Lister Dam.
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A wonderful view, holiday feeling
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From mid-2007 to early 2009, the dam was completely renovated. Among other things, cracks and joints in the masonry had to be repaired, the roadway and railings had to be renewed and the arches of the flood relief had to be repaired. For the duration of the work, the top of the wall, the parking lot at the dam and the toilet facilities were closed to visitors. The renovation work, particularly on the railings and arches, has permanently changed the appearance of the dam.[8] In the years 2020 to 2022, the wall on the water side, which is stressed by the fluctuating water level, was renovated in three construction phases. In order to clear a four-meter-wide strip below the crown for work, the Lister Dam had to be lowered by 4.50 meters at a time. In this area, all joints could be chiseled out and loose stones could be anchored or replaced. After repointing and sandblasting, the character of the quarry stone masonry can be clearly seen again. A total of 30 kilometers of wall joints on both sides of the wall were treated in this way, which strengthened the Lister dam for decades to come.
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The planning for the construction of the Listertalsperre goes back to the Ruhrtalsperreverein (RTV), founded in 1899, which had set itself the task of supplying water to the rapidly growing Ruhr area. Government master builder Ernst Link and construction director of the RTV had assessed the Listertal as particularly suitable when looking for other suitable locations for the construction of a dam. His report from 1905 was soon followed by the founding of the Lister Dam Cooperative, which tackled the construction of the dam with the financial support of the RTV. The ground-breaking ceremony took place on September 13, 1909, and almost three years later, on July 5, 1913, the ceremonial inauguration took place by director Kluge from Braunschweig, the head of the cooperative
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Again and again there are beautiful views of the Listertalsperre
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Unfortunately, the restaurant had to close on December 31, 2022 😔 Reopened on December 1, 2024 😉
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Good eatery popular destination for cyclists.
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Here the inlet to the Lister reservoir. Very nice and varied hiking area. And for all water sports enthusiasts there are also various possibilities.
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The Listertalsperre region is primarily defined by two significant, interconnected bodies of water: the Listersee and the larger Biggesee. Together, they form the Biggesee-Listersee nature adventure area, offering diverse recreational opportunities.
The Listersee, an older reservoir, functions as a forebay to the Biggesee and is known for its tranquil environment and designated bathing areas. The Biggesee is larger, characterized by its clear blue water and serves as a central hub for more extensive leisure activities, including passenger boat trips and a wider range of water sports. Both offer extensive hiking and cycling paths.
Yes, the Listersee is a designated bathing lake with four official and freely accessible bathing beaches located in Hunswinkel, Windebruch, Heiligenberg (Meinerzhagen), and Kalberschnacke (Drolshagen). The Biggesee also offers opportunities for swimming.
Both lakes are excellent for water sports. On the Listersee, you can enjoy swimming, sailing, fishing, and surfing, with good wind conditions for the latter. The Biggesee offers an even wider range, including pedal boating, surfing, sailing, diving (with a fascinating underwater world to explore), fishing, and swimming. Passenger boat trips are also popular on the Biggesee.
Yes, the region offers numerous well-maintained paths suitable for various skill levels. For easy hiking, you can find routes like the Art Trail at Listertalsperre – Lister Reservoir loop from Wörmge, which is approximately 5.9 km. Many circular walks around the lakes are also generally accessible.
The region is very cyclist-friendly. You can find extensive networks like the Bigge-Lister circular cycling path, which offers scenic routes around both lakes. For specific road cycling options, you can explore routes such as the Lister Dam – Biggesee (Lake Bigge) loop from Heiligenberg, an easy 21.5 km ride.
A significant historical structure is the Lister Dam itself, constructed between 1909 and 1912. Its wall underwent renovations between 2020 and 2022. The dam is an impressive engineering feat and separates the Listersee from the Biggesee. The region also features other cultural and historical sites, including museums, technical monuments, castles, and ruins.
There are several excellent viewpoints offering breathtaking panoramic views. The View of the Lister Reservoir is highly recommended, often described as having a 'mountain lake feel.' The Biggeblick Viewing Platform near Biggesee also provides expansive vistas of the lake and its dam.
Yes, you'll find various facilities. For dining, Gut Kälberschnacke at Lake Lister is a popular restaurant and destination for cyclists, known for delicious food. There are also campsites around the Listersee, such as Gut Kalberschnacke at Listersee, which offers parking and is a good starting point for activities.
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful views, the tranquil atmosphere, and the diverse recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the feeling of being in a mountain lake setting, especially from viewpoints like the View of the Lister Reservoir. The well-maintained paths for hiking and cycling, along with the various water sports, also contribute to a highly positive experience.
Absolutely. The region is very family-friendly, offering designated bathing areas on the Listersee, easy walking and cycling paths, and various recreational activities suitable for all ages. Many highlights, such as the Lister Dam and View of the Lister Reservoir, are categorized as family-friendly.
The Biggesee-Listersee nature adventure area is a year-round destination. While summer offers ideal conditions for swimming and water sports, autumn transforms the landscape into a colorful spectacle, perfect for hiking and cycling. Even in winter, the area offers a glittering landscape and opportunities for outdoor activities.


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