Best attractions and places to see around Oestertalsperre include a blend of natural features, recreational activities, and historical landmarks in North Rhine-Westphalia. The Oestertalsperre reservoir serves as a significant natural feature, offering scenic views and a tranquil environment. The area provides opportunities for outdoor experiences, centered around the reservoir and its surrounding landscape.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Highlight • Lake
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Highlight • Monument
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Highlight • Restaurant
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Highlight • Rest Area
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The catering business has now been joined by self-service machines, which make a small range of drinks and snacks possible, especially during times when the business is closed. Soft-serve ice cream is also available The current opening hours are Tuesday - Saturday from 11 am to 5 pm!
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You can pay with both cash and card.
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A soft-serve ice cream machine has recently been installed right next to the restaurant by the dam! You need 2 euros (counted out – the machine doesn't give change), then you get a cone, and then you can watch a robot dispense the soft-serve ice cream. The ice cream is delicious!
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Great little dam with relatively few visitors
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Good sayings on the benches
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There are enough opportunities for a rest.
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The benches are really very lovingly decorated. In warm temperatures they are wonderful benches to rest.
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The primary natural feature is the Oestertalsperre reservoir itself, known as Plettenberg's largest swimming area, offering scenic views and a tranquil environment. You can also discover the "Hoher Stein" Natural Monument, which features remnants from the region's volcanic past, providing an interesting geological point of interest.
Yes, the area offers abundant walking and hiking opportunities. You can enjoy a 7.2 km hike along the dam, a shorter 4.2 km walking trail around the reservoir, or a 2.6-kilometer circular path around the lake. For more options, explore Hiking around Oestertalsperre or Easy hikes around Oestertalsperre.
The most significant historical landmark is the Oestertalsperre Dam. This impressive gravity dam was constructed between 1904 and 1906, designed by Professor Otto Intze. Its construction reflects the region's early 20th-century economic development, driven by water-powered factories.
The Oestertalsperre is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy stand-up paddling, especially in the summer months when rentals are available. It's also a destination for diving, bathing, and fishing, though day permits are required for fishing.
Yes, the area is suitable for families. The circular paths around the reservoir are great for walks, and the Oestertalsperre itself is a popular swimming area. You can also find Benches with Quotes at the Oestertal Reservoir, which are lovingly decorated and provide pleasant spots for families to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Several restaurants are located near the dam. The Zur Oestertalsperre Restaurant is approximately 50m away, known for its large, delicious cream puffs. Other options include Haus Wiesenthal (approx. 2 km) and Restaurant Akademie (approx. 4 km). Benches are also strategically placed around the reservoir for visitors to rest and enjoy the views.
The Oestertalsperre is freely accessible at all times. Free parking is available directly at the dam wall. You can also reach it by public transport via MVG bus route 73 to the "Oestertalsperre Wendetelle" stop.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil environment and scenic views of the reservoir. Many enjoy the opportunities for relaxation on the Benches with Quotes and the impressive sight of the Oestertalsperre Dam, especially when the sun rises or when the dam overflows in winter.
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, the Trail Below the Dam in Naturpark Sauerland-Rothaargebirge offers an impressive route with views of the imposing dam. While it's a great experience to see the dam from below, be aware that the path back up to the dam can be quite demanding.
Absolutely! The region offers several road cycling routes. You can find various options, including moderate to difficult routes, in the Road Cycling Routes around Oestertalsperre guide. These routes often feature scenic loops through the surrounding landscape.
The Oestertalsperre Dam is a significant engineering marvel from the early 20th century. Built between 1904 and 1906, it was crucial for regulating the Oesterbach, which powered the region's factories and contributed to its economic development. It stands 36 meters high and is an impressive example of quarry stone construction.


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