Lakes around Rheinbach offer diverse natural landscapes for recreation. While the town itself does not feature large lakes, the surrounding region provides several notable bodies of water. These include reservoirs, natural ponds within forests, and larger recreational lakes. The area is characterized by its varied terrain, from dense woodlands to renatured former open-cast mines, providing different aquatic environments.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Rheinbach.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Rheinbach
Wasserburgen-Route — A ride through Germany's Castle Country from the Rhine to the Eifel and back
I'm getting outside! – eight adventurous hikes on the Rhine and Sieg
Hike from Cologne to the Eifel – Roman Canal Trail
Nature and culture in beautiful landscapes – hikes on the Rhine and Sieg
Close to water – cycling in the Rhineland cycling region
Naturpark Rheinland - Our most beautiful hiking trails
History in the Rhineland – cycling in the Rhineland cycling region
Im Zeichen des Apfels – Die Rheinische Apfelroute
Hiking around Rheinbach
Cycling around Rheinbach
Four old ponds lie along the path as if strung on a pearl necklace. It's quiet here and perfect for a little rest.
4
0
The circular route is currently not possible
5
0
The dams of the dams are massive barrier structures made of masonry or concrete
5
1
Dust dries the dam, but it's easy to hike or cycle there
5
0
The photos that can still be seen of the Steinbach dam, which show a large, shimmering blue water surface, are older. After the heavy rain catastrophe of July 2021, due to the amount of water that caused the dam to temporarily break, the dam ran empty. As far as I know, it has not yet been decided whether the dam will ever be closed again and a lake will be dammed.
11
1
The Eulenbach has dug deep into the terrain and the drought of the past summer has left its mark on the ponds. The water system seems to be completely out of balance here.
3
1
During the flood in July 2021, the situation at the Steinbachtalsperre was dramatic. The dam threatened to break because the drain, which was 18 m below the surface, was clogged. An excavator driver risked his life to clear the drain. After the flood, a new drainage notch was built.
3
0
Impassable since the dam burst.
5
0
For general recreation, the Otto-Maigler-See in Hürth is highly recommended. It features a 500-meter sandy beach, shallow areas suitable for children, and offers diverse water sports like kayaking and stand-up paddling. It also has a Beach Club with gastronomy. The Rheinauensee in Bonn, located within the expansive Rheinaue leisure park, is popular for boating and surrounded by nearly 45 kilometers of footpaths, making it ideal for leisurely strolls and cycling.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent hiking. The area around the Ponds and Eulenbach Stream in Rheinbach City Forest is a nature reserve with a popular hiking trail. You can also find pleasant walks around the Old Ponds, which line up along the Eulenbach. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Rheinbach guide, which includes routes like the 'Tomburg Castle Ruins – View of the Siebengebirge loop'.
Absolutely. The region around Rheinbach offers various cycling routes that often pass by or near lakes. For example, the Rheinaue park surrounding Rheinauensee has extensive footpaths suitable for cycling. You can find more detailed routes in the Cycling around Rheinbach guide, with options like the 'Steinbach Reservoir – View of the Voreifel Landscape loop'.
Yes, the Otto-Maigler-See is particularly family-friendly due to its 500-meter sandy beach and shallow water areas. The Rheinauensee in Bonn, within the Rheinaue park, also offers a wide range of activities suitable for families, including boating and extensive park areas for play and exploration. The Old Ponds and Ponds and Eulenbach Stream in Rheinbach City Forest are also noted as family-friendly spots for gentle walks.
The lakes around Rheinbach offer diverse natural landscapes. You'll find dense woodlands, especially around the Ponds and Eulenbach Stream and Hirsch Pond. The Dornheckensee is nestled amidst dense woodlands and characterized by picturesque cliffs. The Otto-Maigler-See is a renatured former open-cast mine, offering a unique landscape with a sandy beach.
The Dornheckensee is known for its clear water and natural setting, attracting experienced swimmers and the FKK (nudist) community, though swimming is officially prohibited. For officially sanctioned bathing, the Otto-Maigler-See is a popular choice with its sandy beach and designated swimming areas.
The Steinbach Reservoir was severely affected by heavy rainfall and flooding in July 2021, leading to significant damage and its emptying. Its recreational uses are currently impacted, and its status as a recreational destination is subject to ongoing restoration efforts. Visitors should be aware that it is currently dry.
Yes, the Otto-Maigler-See features a Beach Club with gastronomy. The Rheinauensee, being part of the Rheinaue leisure park in Bonn, is surrounded by various facilities, including options for food and drink. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local amenities beforehand, as some are more secluded.
Visitors appreciate the tranquil settings, especially at spots like the Old Ponds and Ponds and Eulenbach Stream, which offer peaceful breaks. The Hirsch Pond is noted as an insider tip for its cool, shaded environment. The variety of landscapes, from renatured mines to dense forests, and the opportunities for both active recreation and quiet relaxation are highly valued.
The Madbachtalsperre is a local reservoir located about 6 km from Rheinbach. While it has limited direct tourist potential compared to larger recreational lakes, it offers scenic views and can be a pleasant stop as part of a longer tour exploring the wider region's bodies of water. It's also noted for being a bit quieter than the Steinbach dam and suitable for sunbathing and cooling off in summer.
The Madbachtalsperre is listed as dog-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your canine companion. Many of the forest trails around lakes like the Old Ponds and Ponds and Eulenbach Stream are also popular for dog walkers, though it's always good to check local regulations regarding leashes and swimming.


Still not found your perfect lake around Rheinbach? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.