Top 20 Lakes around Bad Saulgau
Best lakes around Bad Saulgau are found in the wider Upper Swabia region, offering diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty. This area, known for its thermal springs, is surrounded by various water bodies ranging from nature reserves to bathing lakes. The landscape features significant moorlands and smaller impoundments, providing habitats for wildlife and options for outdoor activities. Bad Saulgau serves as a central point for exploring these natural water features.
Best lakes around Bad Saulgau
- The most popular lakes is Federsee Observation Platform, a viewpoint that offers views over the Federsee lake. This platform allows observation of animals and plants in the largest contiguous moorland in Southwest Germany, a habitat for 265 bird species.
- Another must-see spot is Federseesteg Boardwalk Through Federsee Moor, a bridge that provides access through the moorland to the Federsee. This 1.5 km long wooden path allows visitors to walk through various habitats, including reed belts, to a visitor platform.
- Visitors also love Five-sided Pond, a lake with an observation platform for bird watching. This spot offers seating to observe the animal world and enjoy the water.
- Bad Saulgau is known for natural lakes, bathing lakes, and impoundments. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large nature reserves to smaller fishing and swimming spots.
- The lakes around Bad Saulgau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 500 photos shared across 7 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Federseesteg Boardwalk Through Federsee Moor
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Federsee Boardwalk
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Zielfingen Lakes
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Five-sided Pond
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Federsee Observation Platform
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Tips from the Community
Lake Federsee near Bad Buchau in the Upper Swabian district of Biberach is the second largest lake in Baden-Württemberg, covering an area of 1.4 km². It lies in the heart of the largest contiguous moorland area in Southwest Germany, spanning 33 km², and is, along with the moorland, the remnant of a once much larger post-glacial lake covering approximately 50 km². This complex of lake and moorland now forms the core of the geological Federsee Basin, which, following renaturation efforts, possesses outstanding natural and cultural-historical significance with its former shores and islands. Source: Wikipedia
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Lake Federsee near Bad Buchau, a town west of Biberach an der Riß in Upper Swabia, is the largest contiguous moorland area in Southwest Germany, covering 33 km². The Federsee area is home to 265 bird species, 107 of which breed there. The more than 200 breeding pairs of whinchats and 18 breeding pairs of marsh harriers are particularly noteworthy. A museum, the Federsee Museum, and a NABU (Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union) center provide information about the significance and history of the moor. The Federsee area is a bird sanctuary under the European Flora-Fauna-Habitat Directive and part of the European Natura 2000 network of protected areas. The Federsee basin is also known as an archaeological landscape with settlement remains primarily from the Late Neolithic and Bronze Age/Urnfield period.
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Very nice excursion destination. The wooden footbridge leads through the moor and reeds to the lake. There are benches at various places, a small wooden hut on the footbridge with a great view over the Federsee.
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beautiful view over the lake and great reflection of the path
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It's worth walking to the end of the footbridge.
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Absolutely beautiful natural paradise for the various fish and also the bird island is worth a visit. Bringing binoculars is recommended. There are beautiful paths around the lakes for hiking or cycling.
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Great landscape. You can only visit the lake directly if you go over the great jetty
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of wildlife can I observe around the lakes near Bad Saulgau?
The Federsee area is a significant natural landmark, particularly for birdwatching. It's home to approximately 265 bird species, including 107 breeding species like bearded tits. The Federsee Observation Platform and the Five-sided Pond are excellent spots for observing the animal world.
Are there easy walking paths around the lakes near Bad Saulgau?
Yes, the Federseesteg Boardwalk Through Federsee Moor offers a 1.5 km long wooden path through various habitats, suitable for prams and wheelchair users. For other easy walks, you can explore routes like the 'Cereal demonstration garden – Stockäckergraben loop' from Bad Saulgau, which is an easy running trail, or the 'Bad Saulgau Spa Park – Nature Theme Park Bad Saulgau loop' for hiking. Find more options in the Hiking around Bad Saulgau guide.
Which lakes near Bad Saulgau are suitable for swimming?
The Zielfingen Lakes are a popular choice, with a 900-meter sandy beach on the southern lake. The Schwaigfurter Weiher, located near Bad Schussenried, is also recognized as a bathing lake. Historically, Wagenhauser Weiher was popular for swimming, but it is currently drained for renovation works.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, the Federsee Boardwalk, which leads through the moorland to the Federsee, was rebuilt in winter 2010 and is now passable for wheelchair users. It offers a unique way to experience the natural environment.
What historical or cultural sites are associated with the lakes in this region?
The Federsee area is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its ancient settlements from the Stone and Bronze Ages. The Federsee Museum in Bad Buchau showcases these archaeological findings. Additionally, the Schwaigfurter Weiher was originally impounded in 1480 for a mill and fish farming by the Premonstratensian monastery of Schussenried, adding to its historical significance.
What activities can families enjoy at the lakes near Bad Saulgau?
Families can enjoy easy walks on the Federseesteg Boardwalk Through Federsee Moor, which is suitable for prams. The Zielfingen Lakes offer a bathing beach for swimming and relaxing. The Schwaigfurter Weiher provides pedal and rowing boat rentals, and both the Federsee Observation Platform and the Five-sided Pond are great for birdwatching.
Can I go fishing at any of the lakes?
Yes, the Zellerweiher, located southwest of Bad Saulgau, is primarily used as an angling water and is leased by a local fishing club. The Zielfingen Lakes also offer fishing opportunities, with tickets available online.
Are there restaurants or cafes near the lakes?
Yes, near the Wagenhauser Weiher, you'll find the 'Seestüble-Wagenhausen' restaurant offering Swabian and Austrian cuisine with a lake view. The Schwaigfurter Weiher also has a restaurant and a cozy beer garden directly at the lake. At the Zielfingen Lakes, you can find culinary delights at the 'Südsee III' restaurant or the 'New Zealand' restaurant on the surf lake.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, can I do near the lakes?
Beyond walking, you can enjoy running on various trails around Bad Saulgau, such as the 'Stockäckergraben loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Schussenquelle – Cycle Path by Federsee loop'. For more detailed routes and activities, refer to the Running Trails around Bad Saulgau and Gravel biking around Bad Saulgau guides.
Is the Federsee suitable for dogs?
While the Federsee is a protected nature reserve, dogs are generally allowed on the Federseesteg Boardwalk, but must be kept on a leash to protect the sensitive ecosystem and wildlife. Specific rules regarding dogs in the wider nature reserve should be checked locally.
What is the best time to visit the Federsee?
The Federsee is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching due to migration. Summer offers pleasant weather for walks, though it can be busier. Winter provides a unique experience for quiet walks and observing the landscape.
How can I reach the Federsee using public transport from Bad Saulgau?
Public transport options are available from Bad Saulgau to Bad Buchau, where the Federsee is located. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most current connections to plan your visit.
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