Best lakes around Im Saalscheid, a forest area in Wuppertal, Germany, are central to the Gelpe-Saalbach landscape park. The region features the Ronsdorfer Talsperre, a historic dam impounding the Saalbach river. Nearby, the Eschbach Dam and Panzer Reservoir in Remscheid contribute to the area's recreational offerings. These bodies of water provide natural landscapes for exploration and serve various ecological and historical functions.
Last updated: May 19, 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 • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Im Saalscheid.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Hammer (former blacksmith's shop) idyllically situated in the forest with a pond and a "beggar boy".
0
0
With its striking “wheel windows” and the picturesque mill pond, the Käshammer, which is now lovingly restored and used as a private house, is one of the most beautiful examples of the former Bergisch economy.
1
0
Everywhere in the valley are the small reservoirs of the hammers. It's very idyllic here
3
0
Always good for a short walk, e.g. after eating in one of the Rondorf restaurants.
8
0
One of the few surviving hammers in the Gelpe and Saalbachtal watercourse system, which bears witness to early industrialization in the Bergisches Land.
0
0
A still-preserved 19th century hammer. Today a very well restored house
3
0
On July 30, 1895, the city council decided to build a waterworks and the associated dam. Professor Otto Intze from the Technical University of Aachen was commissioned with the planning and subsequent implementation. His investigations showed that the most favorable area for a dam was the Saalbach valley with its wealth of sources. At the meeting of the city council on April 14, 1897, Intze's proposals were accepted and the construction of the dam was decided. Almost a year later, the necessary land could be acquired and construction of the dam began. A quarry stone wall was erected, which was built according to the "Intze principle". This principle consisted of creating a wedge-shaped, compacted earthfill on the water side at the foot of the wall, which reached just half the height of the wall. In this way the pressure of the water on the wall could be reduced quite considerably, which enabled a lighter construction method Pump-operated pumping station and on the upper Kurfürstenstrasse, the highest point in Ronsdorf, the water tower. From here the water was fed into the Ronsdorf supply network. The dam was inaugurated on November 11, 1899. It had a storage height of around 19 meters and a capacity of 300,000 cubic meters. Source and more: http://www.ronsdorfer-buergerverein.de/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/2016.08Talsperre.pdf
10
0
The region features several significant bodies of water. The Ronsdorf Reservoir is a historic dam ideal for walks and hikes. Other notable sites include the Käshammer Pond and the Pond at Reinshagenshammer, both offering idyllic, historical settings.
Yes, the area is rich in history. The Ronsdorf Reservoir itself is a historic dam built in 1899. The Eschbach Dam, located nearby in Remscheid, holds significance as Germany's first dam built for drinking water supply. You can also find historical hammer mills and ponds like Käshammer Pond and Pond at Reinshagenshammer, which were once vital to the region's industry.
The lakes around Im Saalscheid offer excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. You can find numerous trails, including circular routes around the reservoirs. For specific routes, explore guides like Easy hikes around Im Saalscheid, MTB Trails around Im Saalscheid, and Road Cycling Routes around Im Saalscheid.
Many areas are suitable for families. The Ronsdorf Reservoir, for example, is family-friendly and accessible with strollers. The Eschbach Dam also features easily accessible paths suitable for all fitness levels, and the Eschbach Valley Experience Trail offers engaging insights into nature and history.
Yes, after a stroll around the Ronsdorf Reservoir, you can find the cafe-restaurant Haus Zillertal nearby for refreshments.
The lakes are nestled within picturesque wooded landscapes. You'll find serene water bodies, dense forests, and the scenic Saalbachtal (Saalbach Valley). Areas like the Panzer Reservoir are home to rare animals and plants, contributing to the rich biodiversity, though direct shore access might be restricted for protection.
The lakes offer beauty year-round. They are popular destinations in both summer and winter, providing tranquil escapes into nature regardless of the season. Spring and autumn also offer vibrant foliage and pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities.
Yes, pets are generally permitted in many areas, including around the Ronsdorf Reservoir. Always ensure your dog is kept on a leash and follow local regulations to protect wildlife and other visitors.
While specific public transport routes to each lake vary, the region around Im Saalscheid is part of Wuppertal, which has a public transport network. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for the most convenient access points to the reservoirs.
The Eschbach Dam, located near Remscheid, is historically significant as Germany's first dam built for drinking water supply, completed in 1891. It was designed by pioneering hydraulic engineer Otto Intze and served as a model for many subsequent dam constructions globally. You can learn more about its history on Wikipedia.
Yes, several lakes offer circular walking routes. For instance, there's a 10.3 km circular route around the Ronsdorf Reservoir and Gelpetal. The Eschbach Dam also has an approximately 1.5 km long circular trail around the reservoir.
The Panzer Reservoir, the second oldest drinking water dam in Germany, is known for its serene natural environment and its role as part of the Remscheid recreational area. Due to the presence of rare animals and plants, direct access to the shore is restricted, but it remains a popular spot for walks and cycling, offering a peaceful escape near the old town of Lennep.


Still not found your perfect lake around Im Saalscheid? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.