Best lakes around Herzogenaurach are found in a region characterized by its river valleys and forested areas within Bavaria. While Herzogenaurach itself features recreational spots along the Aurach river, the wider area offers various lakes suitable for day trips. These water bodies provide opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. The landscape combines urban green spaces with natural ponds and larger artificial lakes in the surrounding countryside.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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The Dechsendorfer Weiher (Großer Bischofsweiher) and the almost equally large Kleiner Bischofsweiher were created in the Middle Ages by the Bamberg bishops as carp ponds. Due to the large water surfaces and the immediate surroundings, both ponds are of great importance for species and biotope protection, especially for water birds. The Dechsendorfer Weiher are a popular destination for those seeking local recreation due to their proximity and closeness to nature. The pond is used as a bathing pond; however, use was restricted by the algae problem. The bathing ban is also announced locally and by clearly visible signs or signs at the bathing area. The fields to the west of the ponds are in the Sandachse Franken nature conservation project and the forest areas of the Markwald directly adjacent to the east are protected forest. The entire area is a landscape conservation area. The Dechsendorfer Weiher was previously flowed through by the Röttenbach. This has now been created as a new Röttenbach over a length of 1.6 km from the intermediate dam inlet area to the downstream area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher. A near-natural watercourse is intended to improve the previously moderate water structure and create new habitats for the ecological diversity of nature. The lack of passability of the Röttenbach was restored. In the new Röttenbach, nutrients, sediments and also fish from the catchment area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher can be diverted around it into the downstream area of the pond. The pond is no longer in the main tributary but in the bypass and can therefore be managed in terms of the quality and quantity of the incoming water. With the targeted planting of aquatic plants, the pond was returned to a plant-dominated state. [ Source: https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/gewaesserschutz-dechsendorfer-weiher ]
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Currently free again. The beaver 🦫 had made himself comfortable under the forest path. Danger of collapse ⚠️
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It was even open today at around 1pm. The daily menu included currywurst, schnitzel and bratwurst. A really lovely and huge beer garden (all new seating outside), very inviting and the food is delicious. Also ideal with children because there is almost no traffic and the adjacent pond is always inviting to watch frogs :-)
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Natural. Very beautiful.
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Beautiful lake for rest, hiking, BBQ and camping
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Pure nature in the bird breeding area.
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In addition to good food and a cool beer, another advantage is that you can cycle largely car-free. This makes it ideal for families with children, especially since there is also lemonade. :-)
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For recreation, the Dechsendorfer Pond (also known as Großer Bischofsweiher) is very popular, offering spacious sunbathing lawns, swimming, and a circular route for cycling or walking. Another favorite is Great Bishop's Pond, which is family-friendly with facilities for barbecuing and swimming, plus a kiosk.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Great Bishop's Pond is noted for its family-friendly facilities, including a small playground and a kiosk. The Dechsendorfer Pond also offers ample space for relaxation and swimming, making it suitable for families.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and cycling around many of the lakes. For example, there's a circular route around Dechsendorfer Pond. You can also find numerous hiking routes in the area, such as the 'Scenic Pond Landscape' or 'Beutelsdorfer Weiher' loops, which are part of the hiking guide for Herzogenaurach. Cycling routes like the 'Dechsendorfer Pond – View of the River Regnitz loop' are also available in the cycling guide.
Yes, for a more tranquil experience, consider Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg. This natural pond is nestled within a forest, offering a quiet atmosphere to relax and observe nature. The Small Bishop's Pond is also beautifully located in nature, perfect for a break or simply enjoying the surroundings.
Lakes like Dechsendorfer Pond and Great Bishop's Pond are suitable for swimming and are popular spots during warmer months. However, it's important to note that some other water bodies in the wider region, like Silbersee near Nürnberg, strictly prohibit swimming due to water quality issues.
For a significant day trip with extensive recreational activities, Brombachsee is a highly recommended option in the wider region. While not directly in Herzogenaurach, it's known for offering a wide range of water sports and leisure opportunities, typical of large artificial lakes in Bavaria.
Near Great Bishop's Pond, there is a kiosk that is always well-stocked with food and drinks. Additionally, the Gasthaus Gumbrecht offers a beer garden by a pond, providing good food and a cool beer in a natural setting, accessible largely car-free.
Visitors particularly enjoy the opportunities for relaxation, sunbathing, and swimming at lakes like Dechsendorfer Pond. The family-friendly atmosphere, facilities for barbecuing, and the peaceful natural settings of places like Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg are also highly appreciated.
While specific dog-friendly designations for each lake are not detailed, many natural areas and trails around the lakes, such as the circular routes and forest paths, are generally suitable for walks with dogs. Always ensure to keep dogs on a leash where required and clean up after them.
The lakes are most popular during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn, when swimming, sunbathing, and outdoor activities like cycling and hiking are most enjoyable. The Weihersbach area within Herzogenaurach is particularly lively during the summer, hosting the annual Summer Festival.
Yes, within Herzogenaurach, the Weihersbach Area is a popular recreational spot, especially in summer, offering a green oasis. The Aurach Promenade along the northern bank of the Aurach river also provides concrete steps and wooden decks directly at the waterside, serving as a pleasant urban green space.


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