Best lakes in Upper Palatinate are found in a picturesque lake district within Bavaria, Germany. This rural area is characterized by low mountains and numerous ponds and lakes, making it a destination for outdoor activities. Many of these lakes originated from former lignite mining areas that have since been flooded, offering diverse leisure opportunities. The region provides a variety of natural landscapes and recreational options for visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
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 • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes in Upper Palatinate.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Upper Palatinate
Bavaria-Bohemia long-distance cycling trail – Crossing borders
Jurasteig — hiking in the heart of Bavaria
Trans Bayerwald – A mountain bike adventure through Bavaria's finest nature
Nurtschweg – Hiking along the German-Czech border
SEND IT! Germany by bike with two mountain bike pros
Bikepacking in the Upper Palatinate Forest
Water, rocks & trails — Mountain biking in the Fichtel mountains
The Goldsteig – 38 stages between Upper Palatinate and Passau
Five Rivers Cycle Path — 5 stages along Bavaria's most beautiful rivers
Donau-Panoramaweg – 10 days nature views and cultural insights
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
2
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
Beautiful lake and a lovely circular path (approx. 8 km) with many idyllic places to stop for a break.
1
0
It was formerly used for 🪵transport by opening the weir and allowing the water flow down the valley.
17
0
Very nice recreation area near Schwandorf
2
0
The Steinberg Lake, together with the Murner Lake, forms the heart of the region and offers everything that water sports enthusiasts, those seeking relaxation, cyclists, hikers or recreational athletes need. A well-developed and pleasant path leads around Lake Steinberg, and display and information boards have been set up everywhere and bring the region, nature and history closer.
8
0
The inMotion PARK on Lake Steinberger is an extraordinary experience and offers a special highlight with the world's largest walk-in wooden adventure ball. From a height of 40m you can enjoy the wonderful view over the lake district from the viewing platform. Since the beginning of 2019, an almost 750m long path has led up to the special leisure attraction on the largest lake in Eastern Bavaria. You can go down the same way or via the 80m long giant slide. There are over 30 adventure stations, 2 suspension bridges and two outdoor balcony circular paths on the circular route.
6
0
Many of the lakes in Upper Palatinate originated from former lignite mining areas that have since been flooded, creating diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities. This region is characterized by low mountains and numerous ponds and lakes, offering a blend of natural beauty and active leisure.
The lakes offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, running, and road cycling on various trails. For specific routes and guides, explore options like Hiking in Upper Palatinate, Running Trails in Upper Palatinate, and Road Cycling Routes in Upper Palatinate.
Yes, several lakes are very family-friendly. Lake Steinberg features the 'Adventure Sphere' with a 40-meter-high viewing platform, adventure stations, and a giant slide, along with a children's playground and trampolines. Lake Murner has a level circular route suitable for families with children, and Dragon Lake is also noted as family-friendly and wheelchair accessible.
Lake Steinberg is a hub for water sports, offering wakeboarding and stand-up paddleboarding. The Brückelsee, known for its clear water, provides opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, pedal boating, and swimming.
Absolutely. Lake Murner has a well-maintained circular hiking path of about 6.5 km, featuring information boards, a barefoot path, and an observation tower. Lake Steinberg also offers a well-developed path around its perimeter, providing insights into the region's nature and history. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking in Upper Palatinate guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Both Lake Steinberg and Lake Murner feature well-maintained circular paths that are excellent for cycling. The tranquil surroundings of Lake Murner, in particular, make it ideal for a relaxing ride. For more cycling routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes in Upper Palatinate guide.
The lakes offer various natural features and viewpoints. At Lake Murner, you can find a tertiary forest and an observation tower offering fantastic views. Lake Steinberg provides beautiful views from its circular path and from the 40-meter-high viewing platform of the Adventure Sphere. Lake Blaibach is also known for its scenic views.
Yes, you can find amenities near some of the lakes. For example, Lake Steinberg has a beer garden. The Jakob Brewery Inn at Hammersee offers a brewery restaurant with a beautiful beer garden directly on the Hammerseerundweg, perfect for enjoying food and drinks after an activity.
Visitors particularly appreciate the well-maintained circular routes around lakes like Lake Murner and Lake Steinberg, which offer beautiful views and insights into the region's nature and history. The clear waters, tranquil surroundings, and diverse activity options, from water sports to family attractions like the Adventure Sphere, are also highly valued.
Yes, several lakes are great for swimming. Lake Murner offers many nice swimming opportunities around its perimeter. The Brückelsee is also known for its wonderfully clear water, making it excellent for recreational swimming.
The 'Adventure Sphere' (inMotion PARK) at Lake Steinberg is the world's largest walk-in wooden adventure ball. It features a 40-meter-high viewing platform with extensive views, a nearly 750-meter-long path with over 30 adventure stations, two suspension bridges, and an 80-meter slide for descent. It's a major attraction for families and adventurers.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural and recreational, the paths around them, such as at Lake Steinberg, often feature information boards that provide insights into the region's history. The Waterwheel in the Waldnaab Valley is a beautifully designed historical site near a pond, offering an idyllic spot for relaxation.


Find the best lakes in Upper Palatinate per region:
Still not found your perfect lake in Upper Palatinate? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.