Top 20 Lakes around Brilon
Best lakes around Brilon, a town in the Sauerland region, are characterized by expansive forests and natural beauty. Brilon serves as a gateway to several bodies of water in its vicinity, offering various recreational activities and scenic experiences. The area is known for its woodlands, providing a natural setting for exploring nearby lakes. These lakes contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best lakes around Brilon
- The most popular lakes is View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm, a viewpoint that offers new impressions and prospects around the storage pool. This reservoir is used for artificial snow production on the ski slopes.
- Another must-see spot is Diemelsee Dam, a man-made monument and historical site. The approximately 42-meter-high dam, completed in 1924, and its power plant building are protected historical monuments, offering impressive views of the lake and surrounding area.
- Visitors also love Aabach Reservoir, a lake that serves as a crucial source of drinking water for over 250,000 residents. It is a beautiful spot to enjoy nature and sweeping views over the water, with a flat circular path suitable for various activities.
- Brilon is known for reservoirs that serve multiple purposes, including drinking water supply, water regulation, and recreational activities. Visitors can find lakes suitable for water sports, leisurely walks, and family-friendly outings.
- The lakes around Brilon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3900 upvotes and over 1700 photos shared across 16 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Diemelsee Dam
Highlight • Monument
The approximately 42-meter-high dam, completed in 1924, and the power plant building are now listed as historical monuments. The view of the dam is impressive.
The dam is also considered one of the Sauerland's spiritual places. It symbolizes the theme of "power and strength."
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Diemel Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Panorama Trail Diemelsteig – Views of Diemelsee
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Aabach Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
From the Diemelsteig you will have wonderful views of the Diemelsee. But be careful: the viewpoints are not always directly on the path, but it is always worth taking the small detour.
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There are great views from the impressive building.
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The Diemelsteig runs on a section of the panorama trail. Nice to walk, it overcomes a few meters in altitude and rewards the hiker with beautiful views and a springy forest floor!
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You have a great panoramic view of the surrounding area from up there.
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A very beautiful, natural path, partly along rock faces. Again and again you have fantastic views of the Diemelsee
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Brilon are best for water sports?
The Diemelsee is a prime location for water sports in the eastern Sauerland, offering various activities. Additionally, the Hillebachsee features a water ski facility and a bathing bay for swimming and splashing.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Brilon?
Yes, the Hillebachsee near Niedersfeld is particularly family-friendly. It offers a bathing bay, a children's playground, and a beach volleyball court. The circular path around the lake is also well-lit in the evenings, making it suitable for family outings. The Aabach Reservoir also has a flat circular path suitable for leisurely family walks.
Can I swim in the lakes near Brilon?
Swimming is permitted in designated areas, such as the bathing bay at Hillebachsee. However, swimming is generally not allowed in the Aabach Reservoir due to its function as a drinking water supply, and it is also prohibited in the Ettelsberg reservoir.
What historical landmarks can be found near the lakes?
The Diemelsee Dam is a significant historical monument. Completed in 1924, its approximately 42-meter-high structure and power plant building are protected historical sites, offering impressive views of the lake and surrounding area.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Brilon?
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. The Diemelsee is surrounded by trails like the Panorama Trail Diemelsteig, which provides wonderful views. The Aabach Reservoir also features a flat, asphalt circular path ideal for hikers and cyclists. For more options, you can explore various routes in the area, including those found in the Easy hikes around Brilon guide.
What cycling opportunities are available around the lakes?
Cycling is very popular around the lakes. The Diemelsee area is excellent for cycling, and the Aabach Reservoir has a well-developed, flat circular path suitable for various types of bikes. The Möhnesee is also part of the MöhnetalRadweg, offering picturesque views. You can find more cycling routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Brilon guide.
Which lakes offer the best scenic views?
Many lakes near Brilon provide stunning vistas. The View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm offers new impressions and prospects. The Diemelsee Dam provides impressive views of the lake, and the Aabach Reservoir is known for its sweeping views over the water.
Can I fish in any of the lakes?
Yes, fishing is permitted at Hillebachsee with a valid permit during the season, which typically runs from April to October.
Are there any lakes that are important for drinking water supply?
The Aabach Reservoir is a crucial source of drinking water for over 250,000 residents. Due to this, swimming and water sports are generally not permitted to maintain hygiene standards.
What is the purpose of the Ettelsberg reservoir?
The Ettelsberg reservoir, also known as Ettelsberg Lake, is primarily used for the artificial snow production on the ski slopes in the Willingen area. While it offers beautiful views, swimming is prohibited.
What makes the Möhnesee a popular destination near Brilon?
The Möhnesee is one of the largest reservoirs in North Rhine-Westphalia and a well-known recreational destination. It's particularly popular for cycling, with the MöhnetalRadweg running along the Möhne river that feeds the lake, offering picturesque and relatively flat routes.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The region around Brilon is characterized by expansive forests and natural beauty. Around the lakes, you'll find lush woodlands, open views over the water, and diverse landscapes that are ideal for outdoor activities. Many areas are within the Diemelsee Nature Park, offering rich natural environments.
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