Best attractions and places to see around Stadtwaldsee, also known as Unisee, is an excavation lake located in the Horn-Lehe district of Bremen, Germany. Formed in the 1970s, it is Bremen's largest sand extraction lake, offering a natural escape. The lake is known for its clean, groundwater-fed water and features sandy beaches, sunbathing areas, and diverse habitats. It provides opportunities for swimming, water sports, and nature walks, making it a popular destination for recreation.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Stadtwaldsee in Bremen – usually simply called "Unisee" – lies directly next to the university in Horn-Lehe. It was created in the 1970s as a result of construction and sand extraction work following the building of the motorway. The lake, which is approximately 15 meters deep and covers 29 hectares, is fed primarily by groundwater. The lake is an easily accessible local recreation area for the residents of Bremen. On the bathing side, there are sunbathing lawns and beach areas.
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The food was delicious and sitting here on the terrace when the weather is nice is simply wonderful.
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Very nice restaurant Il Lago at the Stadtwaldsee.
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With a size of around 29 hectares and a depth of 15 meters, the Unisee is the largest sand extraction lake in Bremen, which was created in the 1970s as part of highway construction projects. The good water quality of the groundwater-fed, slightly salty lake invites you to swim on hot summer days.
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On the north-eastern shore is the so-called university wilderness, a nature reserve, a nudist beach and, a little further west, the "HanseCamping Bremen" campsite. In the south-east, on the side facing the university, there are lawns with a sandy beach. Concerts and open-air events also occasionally take place there. The western end is currently used by surfers, anglers and divers. In 2005 and 2007, a planned waterski facility caused a dispute between a citizens' initiative and a majority in the advisory board on the one hand and the Senator for the Interior and Sport or the potential operator on the other. Investors have repeatedly planned to build hotels or wellness facilities in the north-eastern part of the lake against the will of the population. Since algae often form in summer, the lake must occasionally be closed to swimming. The lake and the nature reserve were created by sand being extracted during the expansion of the A 27 motorway and the construction of the university. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stadtwaldsee
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The first stage of the Unterweserweg also leads along here.
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Opening hours: Daily: 10:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m Homepage: https://www.restaurant-illago-bremen.de/startseite.html
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Stadtwaldsee, commonly called Unisee due to its proximity to the University of Bremen, is Bremen's largest sand extraction lake. Formed in the 1970s, it offers a refreshing natural escape with clean, groundwater-fed water, making it a popular spot for recreation and relaxation.
The central feature is the lake itself, known for its clean water and sandy beaches, including a main bathing beach and a designated nude beach. You'll also find the 11-hectare Uni-Wildnis Nature Reserve on the northeastern shore, offering diverse habitats and opportunities for nature walks. The lake is connected to the larger Stadtwald (City Forest) and Bürgerpark, providing extensive green spaces.
Yes, the clean, groundwater-fed water of Stadtwald Lake (Unisee) is ideal for swimming, especially on warm days. The western and northwestern parts of the lake are popular for windsurfing, angling, and diving. A stand-up paddling station also offers equipment rental and courses.
The area around Stadtwaldsee offers numerous trails for walking, hiking, and running. You can walk around the lake itself, or combine it with a run in the adjacent Bürgerpark. For specific routes, you can explore easy hikes around Stadtwaldsee or running trails around Stadtwaldsee, which include loops like the Uni Lake (Stadtwaldsee) loop from the University of Bremen.
Absolutely! Stadtwald Lake (Unisee) is considered very family-friendly, offering beaches for swimming and sunbathing, as well as playground equipment. The adjacent Uni-Wildnis Nature Reserve provides opportunities for nature exploration, and the flat terrain around the lake is suitable for easy walks with children.
There are several options for food and drinks. Restaurant il Lago at Unisee is located directly on the lake with a beautiful terrace, popular for its views. You'll also find snack bars, an ice cream shop, and a beer garden nearby, especially on the southeastern side close to the University.
Parking for bicycles and cars is available, for example, along Witterungsweg. The lake's proximity to the University of Bremen means it is generally well-connected by public transport routes within Bremen, making it accessible for visitors without a car.
The terrain around Stadtwaldsee is mostly flat, and some paths are wheelchair-accessible, particularly around the main recreational areas. This allows for enjoyable walks and access to certain parts of the lake for visitors with mobility needs.
While Stadtwaldsee itself is a major draw, other notable attractions in the vicinity or easily accessible within Bremen include the Universum Science Center, an interactive museum about a 19-minute walk away, and the historic Bremen's Town Hall and Roland Statue, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the city center.
Yes, the area around Stadtwaldsee and its connection to the Stadtwald and Bürgerpark offer numerous trails suitable for cycling. For road cycling enthusiasts, there are specific road cycling routes around Stadtwaldsee, including longer tours through the Wümme Meadows.
Visitors particularly enjoy the opportunity for relaxation and recreation. The clean water and sandy beaches are a hit for bathing and swimming in summer. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere for walks, runs, or cycling, often combining a visit with the adjacent city forest. The direct view of the lake from places like Restaurant il Lago at Unisee is also highly praised.
Yes, there is a Hidden singletrack trail near Stadtwaldsee, located between the lake and the highway. While it might not be a natural idyll due to its proximity to the motorway, it offers a surprisingly good driving experience for mountain bikers in the Bremen area, including some jumps.


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