Top 20 Lakes around Rietberg
Best lakes around Rietberg offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its flat terrain, with several lakes providing focal points for outdoor activities. These bodies of water contribute to the area's appeal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil environments. Rietberg's lakes are integrated into local parks and nature reserves, highlighting the area's commitment to preserving its natural features.
Best lakes around Rietberg
- The most popular lakes is Mastholter Lake, a lake known for its beautiful paths and numerous cozy spots perfect for picnics. It offers opportunities for surfing, sailing, and water skiing, with a circular hiking trail of about 2.7 km.
- Another must-see spot is Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park, a lake area providing an idyllic setting with plenty of charm and natural attractions. The area includes the Emssee, Emscafé, the park, and the Ems River, offering many paths and sights.
- Visitors also love Alberssee Beach, a clear recreational lake featuring a beautiful sandy beach. It is open from March to October, with water monitored by the DLRG on weekends, and offers pedal boat rentals.
- Rietberg is known for recreational lakes, nature reserve ponds, and lakes integrated into park landscapes. These provide a variety of settings for activities like swimming, walking, and wildlife observation.
- The lakes around Rietberg are appreciated by the komoot community. The guide features 7 highlights, with more than 190 photos and over 1000 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Steinhorster Becken Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
The Steinhorster Basin is considered to be the largest human-made biotope in North Rhine-Westphalia. Here native, but also many migrating waders and water birds find undisturbed areas for breeding, resting or feeding. The area is part of the European bird sanctuary "Rietberger Emsniederung with Steinhorster Basin".
A wide ring moat protects the core zone of the nature reserve from disturbances. From the top of the dike and two lookout towers, the natural and animal world can be observed with binoculars or telescopes.
Hike (A1, A2, A3) or cycle (De5) the area via one of the signposted circular routes. Finally, it is worth taking a detour to the Brinkmeier farm café.
The history of the Steinhorster basin
In the 1970s, a retention basin was created to protect the towns of Rietberg and Rheda-Wiedenbrück on the Upper Ems near Steinhorst from flooding. The state of North Rhine-Westphalia bought the central storage space of around 80 hectares and turned it into a water bird reserve.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Steinhorster Becken Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
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
Alberssee Beach
Highlight • Beach
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Mastholter Lake
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Former State Garden Show Park, Rheda-Wiedenbrück
Highlight (Segment) • Parking
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Rietberg.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Rietberg
Germany's Westphalian City Tour — linking historic town centres
Historic Town Centres cycling route
Town, country and river hiking – Germany’s Teutoburg Forest trails
Qualität trifft auf Erlebnis – 5-Sterne-Wandern im Teutoburger Wald
Cycling around Rietberg
Hiking around Rietberg
Road Cycling Routes around Rietberg
Running Trails around Rietberg
Gravel biking around Rietberg
MTB Trails around Rietberg
Other adventures around Rietberg
Tips from the Community
Great area for leisurely driving.
0
0
Mastholter Lake has a wonderfully located circular path very close to the water. Perfect for pedestrians and cyclists. Very beautiful, idyllic, and flat.
1
0
The Steinhorster Basin near Delbrück is really a very beautiful and large idyllic nature reserve, especially for water birds and other aquatic animals. The A3 hiking trail that leads around it is also very beautiful. I've been there 2 years in a row and very impressed.
6
0
The former state garden show in Wiedenbrück is very idyllic and beautiful. With very beautiful and many paths along the Ems. There is a lot of green and water and Seepark, Seecafe, sculptures, dog park, flowers, playground etc. And everything is freely accessible and free of charge. Really great for walkers and cyclists. With respect for each other for everyone a very idyllic and beautiful area. Wow.
5
0
The dyke grazing at the Steinhorst basin is very practical, because the sheep 🐑 naturally help to keep the grass short there.
7
0
Image taken in November 2022
8
1
The Steinhorst Basin is located near Delbrück and is a truly beautiful and expansive nature reserve. Perfect for fish 🐟🐠 and birds 🐦. It's a great place to walk or cycle. There are two observation towers there, and the "Water, Paths, Corners" cycle path from Delbrück to Lake Möhne also begins there. It was a truly beautiful ride, approximately 130 km long.
10
1
A beautiful route, along the NSG
11
1
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Rietberg are best for swimming?
For swimming, Alberssee Beach is an excellent choice. It features a clear recreational lake with a beautiful sandy beach, open from March to October during good weather. The water is monitored by the German Lifeboat Association (DLRG) on weekends for safety.
Are there good hiking or walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer pleasant walking and hiking opportunities. Mastholter Lake has a popular 2.7-kilometer circular hiking trail, ideal for walking, cycling, and Nordic walking. The Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park also features many paths and natural attractions for leisurely strolls. For more extensive options, you can explore various routes in the area, such as the 'View of Mastholter Lake' loop or the 'Hiking loop from Steinhorster Becken', detailed in the Hiking around Rietberg guide.
What activities can I do at Mastholter Lake?
Mastholter Lake is a versatile recreational area. You can enjoy surfing, sailing, and water skiing. There's also a scenic 2.7-kilometer circular trail perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. Many cozy spots around the lake are ideal for picnics, and an observation point allows for wildlife viewing in the protected area.
Are there any nature reserves or special natural features near the lakes?
Yes, the region is rich in natural features. A significant part of Mastholter Lake is a nature reserve, offering an observation point to spot local wildlife. Additionally, the Rietberger Fischteiche (Rietberg Fish Ponds) constitute a nature reserve recognized for its diverse animal and plant species, particularly waterfowl. While privately owned, an observation deck along the Ems river provides glimpses into this important ecological site.
What facilities are available at Alberssee Beach?
Alberssee Beach provides a lido with a café and snack bar. Pedal boats are available for rent, and there is ample bicycle parking. Admission to the beach is free.
Can I find cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Yes, you can find dining options near some lakes. Alberssee Beach has a lido with a café and snack bar. The Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park area includes the Emscafé, offering a pleasant spot to relax. For other lakes, you might find options in nearby towns or villages.
Are there cycling routes around the lakes in Rietberg?
Absolutely. The area around Rietberg is well-suited for cycling. Mastholter Lake has a great bike path around it. The Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park also offers beautiful cycle routes. You can find various cycling tours, such as the 'Ems Cycle Path' loops or the 'River Lippe – Boker Canal' loop, in the Cycling around Rietberg guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Rietberg?
The lakes around Rietberg offer different experiences throughout the year. For swimming and water activities, the period from March to October is ideal, especially when Alberssee Beach is open. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural scenery. The Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park is described as idyllic in every season, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers.
Are the lakes and parks around Rietberg family-friendly?
Many areas are very family-friendly. Alberssee Beach is perfect for families with its sandy beach, monitored swimming, and pedal boat rentals. Mastholter Lake offers picnic spots and an easy circular trail. The Emssee and Flora Westfalica Park also provides a charming and diverse environment with many paths suitable for families.
Is there a botanical garden or similar green space near the lakes?
Yes, the Botanical Garden and Pond within the Gütersloh Stadtpark, a short distance from Rietberg, offers a beautiful green space. It's described as an oasis with old trees and numerous paths for walks, and the botanical garden is free to enter. This area provides a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts.
What kind of wildlife can be observed near the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are home to diverse wildlife. At Mastholter Lake, an observation point allows visitors to view local wildlife within its protected area. The Rietberger Fischteiche nature reserve is particularly noted as a valuable biotope for waterfowl in North Rhine-Westphalia, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching from the designated observation deck.
Are there running trails available around the lakes?
Yes, the region offers several running trails. You can find routes around Mastholter Lake and Emssee. For more detailed options, the 'Running Trails around Rietberg' guide includes routes like the 'Running loop from Steinhorster Becken' and the 'Mastholter Lake – Mastholter Lake Rest Area loop', which are popular choices for joggers. You can find these and more in the Running Trails around Rietberg guide.
Most popular routes around Rietberg
Most popular attractions around Rietberg
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Rietberg? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
