Lakes around Xanten are a prominent feature of this North Rhine-Westphalia town in Germany. The region is characterized by its significant water bodies, including the interconnected Xanten North Sea and Xanten South Lake, which form the core of the Freizeitzentrum Xanten. These areas offer a diverse natural landscape, ranging from large recreational lakes to unique wetland environments. The town's proximity to the Rhine also influences its aquatic features, providing varied opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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Popular around Xanten
A playground for many outdoor activists.
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The Xanten North Sea is no longer an insider tip.
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The bike path is not paved, but it is still easy to ride on all bikes.
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The Bislicher Insel is always a highlight, thousands of birds of all kinds, information from NABU. Always fantastic to drive here.
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Beautiful section through the NSG Bislicher Insel. Large meadows (flood protection area) are filled with more or less water (depending on the season and the water level of the Rhine) and thousands of different bird species.
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A lake has an outdoor pool. There is a water ski facility.
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Very nice natural pool and leisure center with a beach and a swimming pool in the lake.
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The Xanten North Sea and Xanten South Lake are central to the Freizeitzentrum Xanten, offering a wide range of activities. You can go swimming, sailing, surfing, and diving. The South Lake features a waterski cable car, and both lakes have sandy beaches for sunbathing. The surrounding areas are popular for cycling and walking, with paths around the lakes, and you'll find playgrounds and restaurants.
Yes, the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for nature observation, especially birdwatching. It's a significant wetland environment and an important refuge for migratory birds, hosting thousands of different species. The Auesee also features a bird island where rare birds breed.
The Xanten South Lake and Xanten North Sea are very family-friendly, offering sandy beaches, playgrounds, and various water sports. The Auesee also has a lively beach area and a mini-golf course nearby, making it a good option for families.
Yes, swimming is a popular activity in several lakes. The Xanten South Lake has a lido for bathers, and both the Xanten North Sea and Auesee offer designated swimming areas and sandy beaches. The Freizeitsee Menzelen is also known for its consistently excellent water quality, making it suitable for swimming.
There are numerous paths for cycling and walking around the Xanten North Sea and South Lake, allowing you to circle both. The Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve also offers scenic routes for cycling, though paths may not always be paved. The Auesee features a completely developed cycle path around its perimeter, which is pleasant to ride.
The lakes around Xanten are enjoyable year-round, but for water sports, swimming, and lively beach atmospheres, the warmer months are ideal. For nature observation, particularly birdwatching at the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve, the winter months are significant as thousands of migratory birds arrive.
Yes, the Xanten Leisure Center, which encompasses the Xanten North Sea and Xanten South Lake, features ports with restaurants. These provide convenient options for meals and refreshments while enjoying the lake views and activities.
While specific leash rules vary, many natural areas and trails around Xanten's lakes are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve, to protect wildlife.
The Xanten North Sea and South Lake are hubs for water sports. Popular activities include sailing, surfing, and diving. The Xanten South Lake also has a waterski cable car facility, attracting both beginners and experienced water skiers. Boat rentals and a sailing school are available.
While the Xanten North Sea and South Lake can be lively, especially in good weather, the Auesee offers quieter spots as you move towards Flüren, with small pebble beaches. The Freizeitsee Menzelen, known for its excellent water quality, also provides a refreshing and potentially more tranquil experience.
Komoot offers several guides for outdoor activities around Xanten. You can find detailed routes for various sports, including easy hikes, road cycling, and MTB trails, many of which pass by or around the lakes.
Xanten is well-connected within North Rhine-Westphalia. Public transport options, including bus routes, serve the town and provide access to the Freizeitzentrum Xanten, where the Xanten North Sea and South Lake are located. Specific routes and schedules can be checked with local transport providers.
The Auesee offers a blend of lively beach areas and quieter natural spots. It's popular for swimming, sailing, surfing, and diving, and features a mini-golf course nearby. Uniquely, it's home to a variety of plants and animals, including rare birds that breed on a dedicated bird island within the lake.


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