Top 20 Lakes in Kreis Lippe

The two most prominent bodies of water for recreation are the Schiedersee (also known as Emmerstausee) and the Lippesee. While the Lippesee is technically in the Paderborn district, it's a popular and accessible option for visitors to Kreis Lippe, offering diverse water sports and family-friendly amenities. The Lake Schieder is known for its circular path and various leisure facilities.

Yes, many lakes in the region are well-suited for families. The Schiedersee features the 'Familienpark Funtastico,' playgrounds, and mini-golf. The Lippesee offers a sand beach, barbecue areas, and children's playgrounds. Additionally, highlights like the Externsteine, Donoper Pond, and Hasselbach Reservoir are also noted as family-friendly.

The Schiedersee is popular for sailing, rowing, and pedalo boating, and also offers an excursion boat. The Lippesee provides a wider range of water sports, including sailing, surfing, pedalo boating, and fishing. Nearby, the Nesthauser See has facilities for water skiing.

Yes, both major lakes offer excellent paths. The Schiedersee has an eight-kilometer lakeside path perfect for hiking and cycling. The Lippesee features a roughly 6 km asphalted path encircling the lake, popular for cycling and jogging year-round. Smaller lakes like the Hasselbach Reservoir and Bent Ponds also have scenic trails.

The most prominent natural landmark is the Externsteine, a 40-meter-high rock formation with an adjacent small lake. You can climb the rocks for panoramic views. The View of the Externsteine from the north shore of the Upper Pond offers a particularly scenic perspective, often with reflections in the water. The Donoper Pond is also appreciated for its idyllic natural beauty.

The lakes are particularly popular during the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when water sports are in full swing and the lakeside paths are ideal for outdoor activities. The Lippesee is noted for its beautiful sunsets during these seasons. However, the scenic paths around reservoirs like the Hasselbach Reservoir can be enjoyed year-round for tranquil walks.

Yes, the Donoper Pond is specifically categorized as dog-friendly, offering a tranquil setting within a forest for walks with your pet. Many of the circular paths around the larger lakes are also suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash.

Both the Schiedersee and Lippesee areas are well-equipped with amenities. The Schiedersee has various restaurants and cafes with lake views. The Lippesee also offers barbecue areas and is surrounded by facilities catering to visitors. The Forester Ponds even have a shelter with barbecue facilities that can be reserved.

Beyond water activities, the region offers extensive hiking and cycling opportunities. You can find easy hiking trails like the Blueberry Route or the Pivitker Water Path, as well as moderate options like the Velmerstot route. For more details on routes, explore the Hiking in Kreis Lippe guide or the Easy hikes in Kreis Lippe guide. The Lippesee also features a mountain bike course and skate park.

While the Schiedersee and Lippesee are well-known, smaller, more tranquil spots include the Lower Pond (Unterer Teich) at the Externsteine, the Crayfish Pond, and the Forester Ponds. These offer peaceful natural settings, often within forests, ideal for relaxation and photography.

While the Lippesee has a sand beach and sunbathing areas, swimming in the main Lippesee is generally prohibited. However, the Schiedersee is a popular recreational area where visitors can enjoy various water activities. Always check local regulations and signage for specific swimming permissions at each lake.