Top 20 Lakes around Olsberg
Best lakes around Olsberg are found within the Sauerland region, an area characterized by its varied natural landscape of hills, forests, and water bodies. This region features both natural lakes and man-made reservoirs, serving purposes from water management to recreation. Olsberg provides access to several notable lakes, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and tranquil experiences in a natural setting.
Best lakes around Olsberg
- The most popular lakes is View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm, a viewpoint that…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm
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Ettelsberg Bike Park and Observation Tower
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Ettelsberg Summit and Hochheideturm (High Heath Tower)
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Bodensee (Helle Valley)
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Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake)
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Nestled in the beautiful Upland region lies Willingen's local mountain, the Ettelsberg. You can easily reach the top with the accessible Ettelsberg cable car or the K1 chairlift. If you prefer a more active experience, you have a wide selection of hiking trails and bike routes to choose from to climb the 838-meter-high mountain. High atop the summit stands the Hochheideturm, the highest viewpoint in Northwest Germany. On a clear day, you can enjoy panoramic views across the Sauerland mountains. There's plenty to discover in the surrounding area: the Kyrill Trail commemorates the storm of the same name, the mountain lake stores water for snowmaking, there's a large nature adventure playground for children, and a photo point invites you to take beautiful pictures. While in summer you can particularly enjoy the MTB ZONE Bikepark with its various trails of varying difficulty, in winter the alpine slopes of the ski resort are a major draw. The Ettelsberg is the perfect starting point for exploring the well-groomed network of cross-country ski trails and winter hiking paths, making it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts. A rustic mountain hut on the summit offers delicious treats and classic dishes year-round, such as pea soup served in a glass. Once a year, the gondola dinner offers a unique culinary experience. A five-course meal is served in a gondola, accompanied by a breathtaking panoramic view of Willingen.
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Super nice, great view and at the hut there is something to drink and eat
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🌊The Ettelsberg Lake is an idyllic reservoir on the Ettelsberg in Willingen. In winter, it plays an important role in the snowmaking of the ski area, holding up to 52,000 m³ of water. The lake is a popular destination for relaxing and strolling, offering beautiful views of Willingen. Swimming in the lake is prohibited❗️. 🎨🖌A perfect place to enjoy nature and admire the Willingen landscape💚.
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Admission to the tower is free. Those who want to avoid the elevator can alternatively climb the 241 stairs.
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On the Ettelsberg 👍
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Wonderful vantage point above Willingen! The place on the observation tower is the highest in the Sauerland!!!
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The Ettelsberg near Willingen is an 837.7 m high mountain in the Rothaargebirge in the Waldeck-Frankenberg district. The mountain is known nationwide for its high heath, the "Willingen ski area" and the Hochheideturm. It is located in the Upland, in the Diemelsee Nature Park. Its summit rises about 2 km south-southwest and above the main town of Willingen. To the northwest, its landscape falls into the Hoppecke valley and to the northeast into that of the Itter. Its neighboring mountains include Mühlenkopf (approx. 815 m) in the south-southeast, Hegekopf (842.9 m) in the south-southwest and Mittelsberg (801 m) in the west; about 2.5 km northwest, beyond the Hoppecke valley, lies the Hoppernkopf (805 m). Fantastic nature and super beautiful hiking trails.
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Lake Constance is fed by the light. Actually, the spelling Boden See is the correct one.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes directly in or near Olsberg?
The primary lakes directly in or very near Olsberg are the Stausee Olsberg and the Hillebachsee. The Stausee Olsberg is a serene, man-made reservoir ideal for peaceful strolls, while the Hillebachsee is a recreational hub offering water sports and family activities.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or water sports near Olsberg?
Yes, the Hillebachsee, located near Niedersfeld, is excellent for swimming and water sports. It features a bathing bay and facilities for activities like wakeboarding, wakeskating, waterskiing, and kneeboarding. Equipment rental and instructors are available on-site. For other options in the wider region, the Möhnesee and Sorpesee also offer extensive opportunities for swimming and water sports.
Which lakes are good for a relaxing walk or hike around Olsberg?
For a peaceful stroll, the Stausee Olsberg offers a natural path through an oak forest with scenic views. The Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake) also has a hiking trail encircling it, providing a tranquil place to relax. The Hillebachsee features a 1.6-kilometer circular hiking trail, which is even lit in the evenings.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Olsberg area?
Absolutely. The Hillebachsee is particularly family-friendly, offering a spacious playground, beach volleyball, and a dedicated bathing bay for swimming and sunbathing. The Bodensee (Helle Valley) and Silbersee Pond are also noted as family-friendly highlights, with the latter featuring a bike path suitable for children.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes near Olsberg?
You can find various scenic views. The View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm offers new impressions and prospects around a storage basin. The Stausee Olsberg provides serene views of the reservoir surrounded by an oak forest. Many lakes in the wider Sauerland region, like Möhnesee and Sorpesee, are known for their scenic beauty.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Olsberg?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Hillebachsee has a paved trail perfect for cycling. The Silbersee Pond is known for its great, flat bike path, suitable for all bikes and children. For more extensive cycling, you can explore routes like those found in the Gravel biking around Olsberg guide, which includes routes around Diemelsee and Silbersee.
Are there opportunities for running or jogging near the lakes?
Yes, the Hillebachsee features a 1.6-kilometer circular trail that is ideal for jogging, and it's even lit in the evenings. You can also find dedicated running routes in the area, such as those listed in the Running Trails around Olsberg guide, which includes routes around the Olsberg Reservoir.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Olsberg?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered. Many enjoy the tranquility and relaxation found at lakes like the Stausee Olsberg and Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake). The recreational opportunities at Hillebachsee, from water sports to family activities, are also highly valued. The scenic views and well-developed paths for hiking and cycling are frequently highlighted.
Are there any larger, well-known lakes in the wider Sauerland region accessible from Olsberg?
Yes, the Sauerland region boasts several larger reservoirs that are popular tourist destinations and are accessible by a short drive. These include the Möhnesee (largest in Sauerland), Sorpesee (one of the largest and deepest), Diemelsee (popular for cooling off), and Hennetalsperre (Hennesee), all offering a wider array of activities and scenic beauty.
Is fishing permitted in any of the lakes near Olsberg?
Yes, fishing is permitted in designated quiet spots at the Hillebachsee. Licenses are typically available locally for those interested in fishing.
What is the Stausee Olsberg primarily used for?
The Stausee Olsberg is a man-made reservoir originally built in 1928 for electricity generation. While swimming and boating are not permitted, it is now primarily enjoyed for its peaceful atmosphere and the scenic path surrounding it, ideal for walks and observing local waterfowl.
Are there any lakes that are part of a longer hiking trail?
Yes, the Bodensee (Helle Valley) is located along the Gorge and Bridge Trail and can be completely bypassed as part of a longer hike, offering a pleasant spot to rest with seating.
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