Best lakes around Büttelborn offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities within the Landkreis Darmstadt-Dieburg region. The area features a mix of natural forest lakes, artificial ponds, and renatured gravel pits. These locations provide settings for walks, nature observation, and various outdoor activities. The region's lakes are integrated into local recreation areas and hiking routes, making them accessible for exploration.
Last updated: May 9, 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 • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Büttelborn.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
There are benches here and you can chill out with a view of the pond.👍
16
0
Beautifully located, a certain brackishness gives it its charm. As a cyclist you should be careful, especially on weekends, there is a lot going on and both walks and one or two e-bike riders have not yet internalized the traffic rules and their validity on forest paths.
5
0
The Backhausteich belongs to the Jagdschloss Kranichstein and is a common sight
4
0
Beautiful pond with island. Reachable in a few minutes on foot from Walldorf. Lots of viewpoints on the lake and an easily walkable path around the lake.
12
2
The Jagdschloss Kranichstein is a former hunting lodge in the north of Darmstadt. It was originally built in 1578 for Landgrave Georg I of Hesse-Darmstadt. The castle is one of the few preserved baroque hunters' courtyards in Germany. Today the complex houses a hunting museum and a hotel with a restaurant. History: The focal point of the exhibition in the Museum Jagdschloss Kranichstein is courtly hunting in the Baroque period Landgrave Georg I (1547-1596) had the three-wing Renaissance building built between 1578 and 1580 by his architect Jakob Kesselhuth. The Hessian landgraves Ernst Ludwig (1667-1739) and Ludwig VIII (1691-1768), who were enthusiastic about hunting, organized hunting festivals here in the form of par force hunts and "discontinued hunting". The building, which was still functional at the time, was adapted to the baroque ideas of representation, elegance and luxury. Star-shaped aisles were cut into the surrounding forest for hunting. Ludwig VIII had the baroque Dianaburg hunting lodge built in 1765 as part of the overall complex of Kranichstein Castle and located about two and a half kilometers north of it. For more than 350 years, the site was used by the Landgraves and later Grand Dukes of Hesse-Darmstadt for hunting. From June 1863, the palace was used as a residence by the future Grand Duke Ludwig IV of Hesse and by his wife Alice until the New Palace was completed in 1866. On June 2, 1863, Alice wrote to her mother, Queen Victoria: "When I return now, I have to unpack and pack for Kranichstein and set up the house there, which nobody has lived in for eighty years." In the years that followed, until Alice's death in 1878, Kranichstein Castle was used as a summer residence. It only became a museum when the last Grand Duke Ernst Ludwig had all hunting equipment and accessories from all his castles and hunting lodges brought together here in 1917. Court Marshal Kuno Graf von Hardenberg set up the hunting museum. The Hessischer Jägerhof Foundation acquired the complex after the Second World War and finally reopened the museum in 1952 with a focus on the Baroque period. From 1988 to 1996 the palace was extensively renovated by the state of Hesse, the city of Darmstadt and the Hessischer Jägerhof Foundation. The true-to-original Renaissance version was restored on the ground floor. Source: Wikipedia
12
1
The pond is a nice change in the forest and very idyllic with the castle in the background. Especially recommended in autumn.
6
0
Belongs to the Jadgschloss Kranichstein and can be easily circumnavigated.
6
0
Not only the hunting lodge itself, but also the Backhausteich behind it is worth seeing.
7
0
For tranquil walks, consider Lake Grundwiese, a serene forest lake with an island and well-maintained paths. The Goethe Pond, integrated into the 'Waldkunstpfad' (Forest Art Path), also offers pleasant, art-filled strolls. The Erlensee in Bickenbach features a circular path, ideal for enjoying nature.
Yes, the Steinbrücker Pond is an excellent choice for families. It offers mini-golf, pony rides, pedal and rowing boats, and an inclusive playground. The historic Oberwaldhaus café-restaurant nearby provides refreshments and a beer garden.
The region's lakes offer diverse natural landscapes. You'll find tranquil forest lakes like Lake Grundwiese with its island and viewpoints, artificial ponds such as Goethe Pond, and renatured gravel pits like Erlensee. These areas often feature mixed forests, meadows, and serve as nature reserves.
Absolutely. The Backhaus Pond is situated right next to the historic Kranichstein Hunting Lodge. This offers a pleasant spot for a rest within a historical setting, allowing you to explore both nature and heritage.
The Erlensee in Bickenbach is a popular spot for swimming, splashing, and sunbathing during the summer months. Access to the lake is free, though a small fee may apply for parking.
Beyond walking around the lakes, the area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the 'Huhn-For-You Camp Bübo – Marsh meadows in the Ried loop' or 'Landgraben Wetlands' near Büttelborn. For running, explore routes like the 'Bruchwiesen Nature Reserve loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like 'Lily Pond – Lake Grundwiese loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking, running, and gravel biking guides for Büttelborn.
Many natural areas, including lakes like Lake Grundwiese, are generally dog-friendly for walks. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check local regulations for specific swimming or access rules.
Visitors frequently praise the high recreational value and the peaceful, natural environments. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths for walking, the scenic viewpoints, and the opportunities for family activities like those at Steinbrücker Pond. The integration of art and history, such as at Goethe Pond and Backhaus Pond, also adds to the appeal.
Yes, the Steinbrücker Pond area is home to the historic Oberwaldhaus café-restaurant, which has been serving refreshments since 1901 and includes a beer garden. This makes it a perfect spot for a break after exploring. The Kranichstein Hunting Lodge, near Backhaus Pond, also features a restaurant.
The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Spring and autumn are ideal for peaceful walks and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer is perfect for swimming and sunbathing, especially at Erlensee. Even in cooler months, the tranquil settings are suitable for leisurely strolls.
Yes, the Goethe Pond is integrated into the 'Waldkunstpfad' (Forest Art Path), where various artworks are displayed around the water and its surroundings, offering a unique blend of nature and art.
Yes, Lake Grundwiese is a popular spot for anglers, with records of catches including tench and pike-perch. The Erlensee in Bickenbach also serves as a fish farming area and has an 'Anglerheim' (angler's home) on its southwest side, indicating fishing opportunities.


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