Best lakes around Witten, located in Germany's Ruhr area, offer diverse recreational opportunities and scenic landscapes. This region is characterized by its industrial heritage transformed into natural and leisure spaces, with several prominent lakes providing a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can find paved paths for cycling and walking, as well as areas for relaxation and water sports. The lakes contribute to the area's appeal as a destination for nature exploration and active recreation.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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Impressive building and now almost 150 years old.
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The Ruhr Viaduct in Herdecke spans the valley with a length of 313 m and 12 semi-circular arches, each with a span of 20 m.
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The weir seen from the bridge has four openings closed with hydraulically operated flaps. Next to the weir are the fish ladder and the boat alley. In the case of large floods, the entire system is flooded. In 2011, a hydroelectric power station was built on the right side of the weir. The entire Ruhr flows through the power plant and enables electricity to be generated by around 3.6 million kWh annually.
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The weir has four openings that are closed with hydraulically driven flaps. Next to the weir are the fish ladder and the boat alley. In the case of large floods, the entire system is flooded. In 2011, a hydroelectric power station was built on the right side of the weir. The entire Ruhr flows through the power plant and enables electricity to be generated by around 3.6 million kWh annually.
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and another beautiful view on the hike from the Hohensyburg to the Ruhr Bridge.
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The view over the Ruhr valley is so easy🤩
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It's nice that everything is separated here, everyone has their own way, speaks for pedestrians, inline skaters and cyclists, of course, there are always people who don't stick to it, but otherwise you can drive there great, the paths are super easy to drive when you do a lap around the Kemnader turns.
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The lakes around Witten offer a variety of recreational activities. You can enjoy cycling, walking, and inline skating on paved paths, particularly around Lake Kemnade. Water sports are also available at places like Phoenix Lake. Additionally, the region provides opportunities for hiking and enjoying scenic views.
Yes, several lakes in the region are considered family-friendly. Lake Kemnade is a popular choice with its paved paths suitable for all ages. Phoenix Lake also offers a recreational area for families. The areas around the Ruhr Viaduct at Harkort Lake and the View of the Hengsteysee are also noted as family-friendly.
Lake Kemnade is an excellent choice for cycling, featuring a dedicated paved path that is approximately eight kilometers long for a full lap. Phoenix Lake also has a beautiful bike path structurally separate from the sidewalk, ideal for road bikes. The Hengstey Bridge area also offers cycling opportunities.
Yes, the region's industrial past is evident near some lakes. The Ruhr Viaduct at Harkort Lake is a significant historical bridge offering a sense of stepping back in time. Phoenix Lake itself is a transformation of a former steelworks, serving as a reminder of the Ruhr area's industrial heritage.
For stunning vistas, visit the View of the Hengsteysee, which offers expansive views of the reservoir and its natural landscape. The Hengstey Bridge also provides great views of Hengsteysee and its shorelines. Additionally, the Ruhr Viaduct at Harkort Lake is a fantastic photo opportunity.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes like the Bergbauwanderweg Muttental M2 or the Muttenbach Trail. For more challenging routes, consider trails around Borbachtal or Elbschebach Nature Reserve. Explore more options in the Hiking around Witten guide.
While some lakes are primarily for recreation and water sports, specific regulations for swimming can vary. It's always best to check local signage or official sources for current swimming permissions and designated bathing areas, as wild swimming may not be permitted in all reservoirs.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for outdoor activities like cycling, walking, and water sports. During warmer months, you might even find an ice cream vendor at Lake Kemnade. Peaceful mornings and sunrises are particularly beautiful at any time of year.
Many lakes in the Ruhr area, including those near Witten, are generally well-connected. For instance, Phoenix Lake in Dortmund is easily accessible from Witten. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for specific routes to each lake.
Yes, parking is generally available near the popular lakes. For example, there are parking spaces on both sides of the Hengstey Bridge, providing access to Hengsteysee. Lake Kemnade also has designated parking areas.
Many outdoor areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, allowing owners to enjoy walks with their pets. The Hengstey Bridge area, for instance, is noted as dog-friendly. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash where required and follow local regulations.
Phoenix Lake is known for its accessibility, featuring paths that are suitable for wheelchairs. Lake Kemnade also has paved paths, which can be suitable for wheelchair users, though it's always good to check specific conditions.
You can find various facilities and cafes near the lakes. For example, near Harkortsee, the Ruhr promenade in Herdecke has been redesigned and invites visitors to linger at places like Café Extrablatt. There are also cafes in Wetter. Phoenix Lake also has facilities and dining options in its surrounding residential and recreational area.
Phoenix Lake is unique due to its remarkable transformation. It was created from the former Phoenix Ost steelworks, a vast industrial area. Today, it stands as an excellent example of structural change in the Ruhr area, offering a modern recreational space while preserving the memory of the region's industrial past.
Visitors to Lake Kemnade especially appreciate its peaceful early morning hours, making it ideal for enjoying tranquility and beautiful sunrises. The dedicated paved paths for pedestrians, inline skaters, and cyclists are also highly valued, providing a great circuit for various activities. The presence of an ice cream vendor in warmer months adds to the enjoyment.


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