Best attractions and places to see around Steinberger Lake. Steinberger Lake, the largest lake in East Bavaria, covers an area of 1.84 km². This former brown coal open-cast mine has been re-cultivated into a recreational hub. The region offers a range of activities and sites, from natural features to cultural landmarks.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
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 • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Steinberger Lake.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Lake Steinberger Lake Steinberger is part of the Upper Palatinate Lake District and, with an area of 1.84 km², is the largest lake in the Upper Palatinate. It was named after the municipality of Steinberg am See. It is 1.98 km long, 1.4 km wide, and has a maximum depth of 50 meters. The Schreckerbach stream feeds and drains the lake. After the Bavarian lignite industry ceased mining operations in the mid-1980s, the open-cast mine "Steinberger See" was flooded by reducing the water level. Remaining mining equipment was demolished and still lies on the lakebed. Two small, wooded islands also remain, which now divide the lake into a northern and a southern section. In the following decades, tourism developed at Lake Steinberger, bringing a degree of economic growth to the region. In addition to the Steinberger Yacht Club (SYC), founded in 1987, the area now boasts a sailing school, a water ski lift, a boat rental, a leisure park for families and children, a surf club, and most recently, an adventure golf course and a roughly 40-meter-high wooden "adventure sphere" with viewing platforms, an obstacle course, and a giant slide. Numerous restaurants, inns, and cafés complement the leisure offerings. A water rescue station has been established for the safety of visitors. Due to the increasing improvement in water quality and visibility in recent years, Lake Steinberger has become one of the most popular diving areas in the Upper Palatinate. Like all lakes in the Upper Palatinate Lake District, which originated from lignite mines, the water is acidic due to leaching. Because of the ongoing improvement in water quality, fish populations are steadily increasing. Perch and the occasional pike have been observed most frequently. The water is very clean; on windless days, visibility is possible to a depth of at least 10 meters. Occasionally, the tops of dead trees can be seen on the bottom. According to the ordinance issued by the Schwandorf District Office on August 8, 2002, the entire Steinberger See is open for diving. Especially in summer and winter, very good visibility (up to 20 meters) has been possible in recent years. Source: Excerpts from www.wikipedia.de
3
0
The Mariental inn is only open on weekends. The next place to stop for refreshments would be in Ramspau G.H., near the church.
1
0
A beautiful, versatile lake where you can spend time until late in the evening, especially in summer.
0
0
Beautiful path around the lake, unfortunately a bit crowded in summer
2
0
Beautiful lake and a lovely circular path (approx. 8 km) with many idyllic places to stop for a break.
1
0
When others are struggling, the cake tastes especially good 😉. That looks like a lot of fun and effort
0
0
The centerpiece is Lake Steinberg, East Bavaria's largest lake, known for its idyllic natural beaches and secluded coves. It was formed from a flooded brown coal open-cast mine, and its improved water quality makes it interesting for divers. Adjacent to it, Knappensee offers a more rustic experience with picturesque paths and informational boards on natural history.
Absolutely! The region is very family-friendly. You can visit the Movin Ground Adventure and Fun Arena, which offers water fun, action, and relaxation with trampolines, a water slide, pedal boat rentals, and a beer garden. Another great option is Stonehill Adventure Golf, featuring obstacles related to the region's mining history, perfect for all ages.
Steinberger Lake is a hotspot for various water sports. You can enjoy waterskiing, wakeboarding, sailing, surfing, stand-up paddling, and diving. The Wild Wake Park, Lake Steinberger is one of Germany's most modern facilities, offering four cable cars for water skiing and wakeboarding, along with an 'Obstacle Park' for experienced riders.
To delve into the region's past, visit the Brown Coal and Local History Museum (Braunkohle- und Heimatmuseum) in Wackersdorf. It preserves the history of brown coal mining that significantly shaped the landscape. Additionally, an industrial monument along the lakeside promenade hints at the area's mining heritage.
Yes, the most unique landmark is the Erlebnisholzkugel (Experience Wood Sphere). Standing 40 meters tall, it's the world's largest walk-in wooden sphere, offering unique perspectives of the lake, 30 movement stations, two suspension bridges, and an 80-meter-long giant slide.
A well-developed circular path runs around Lake Steinberg, ideal for both cycling and hiking. This path is also wheelchair and stroller accessible around the main lake. For more specific routes, you can explore various options in the Running Trails around Steinberger Lake guide, or the Road Cycling Routes around Steinberger Lake guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from water sports at Wild Wake Park to family fun at Movin Ground Adventure and Fun Arena. The well-maintained paths around Lake Steinberg for cycling and hiking, and the beautiful views, are also frequently highlighted.
Yes, about 10 minutes by car from the lake, you can explore the Historical Felsenkeller Schwandorf. These rock cellars, some dating back to around 1500, offer guided tours into an underground world. Remember to wear sturdy shoes and a jacket, as temperatures remain around 8°C year-round.
Yes, there are numerous restaurants, cafés, and lakeside terraces offering dining options. For example, the Kugelwirtschaft near the Erlebnisholzkugel offers breakfast and regional delicacies. The Wakeboard Facility and Restaurant at Steinberger See also provides a great view and delicious food.
The summer months are ideal for water activities like swimming, wakeboarding, and sailing, with sunny natural beaches available. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling and hiking around the lake, with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery. Alpaca hikes are also offered, providing a unique way to experience the natural surroundings throughout the milder seasons.
Yes, you can enjoy alpaca hikes in the area, offering a unique and gentle way to experience the natural surroundings and interact with these friendly animals.
Yes, the well-developed circular path that runs around the main Lake Steinberg is designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it enjoyable for everyone.


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