Lakes around Nüsttal, a municipality in the Hessian Uplands, offer natural escapes. The region features bodies of water within its borders and significant reservoirs nearby, providing settings for recreation. These lakes contribute to the area's unique landscapes and serve as local recreation areas. Nüsttal's terrain includes mixed forests, basalt formations, and open meadows surrounding its water features.
Last updated: August 11, 2026
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Popular around Nüsttal
A very idyllic spot. Benches and a shelter invite you to take a long rest.
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Great access to the Milseburg Cycle Path...
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It's a beautiful drive from Steinhaus through the forest to the Haunestausee, far to Rückers past the Mariengrotte and back.
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Basalt used to be mined here. Now it's a lovely place to relax, have a picnic or rest. There's plenty of parking with tables.
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The construction of the Marbach retention basin with permanent dam required extensive and difficult land negotiations in the 1970s, which lasted for six years. For example, the Zellmühle, the Grubenmühle and the Grubenhof had to be relocated. In 1983, the project was given the go-ahead/construction began. The work went according to plan, so that Phase I of the test dam could be initiated on February 1, 1988. In the spring of 1989, Phase II was successfully passed, so that the approval and commissioning was now possible. In addition to the main goal of preventing flooding and the associated damage, the creation of the permanent dam with a size of 15.6 hectares is intended to enrich the landscape and create opportunities for leisure and recreation. A protected part of the permanent dam with around five hectares serves in a special way to protect nature and the landscape and exclusively to promote and care for nature. The remaining area of around ten hectares, a circular path and ancillary facilities are used by the residents of our area for leisure activities and recreation. The hydropower inherent in the dam is used to generate electricity by SynEnergie - a company of RhönEnergie Fulda. The construction of this plant cost 32 million German marks (1989).
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It is a beautiful and extremely flat running route around the Haunestausee.
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The region is known for its distinctive basalt formations. For instance, the Ulmenstein Basalt Lake originated from a former basalt quarry and is framed by imposing basalt columns, offering a striking geological backdrop.
Yes, several lakes offer excellent hiking. The Ulmenstein Basalt Lake is a highlight along the "Extratour Ulmenstein," a moderate circular trail that showcases mixed forests, calcareous grasslands, and juniper heaths with scenic views of the Rhön mountains. You can find more hiking options in the area by visiting our Hiking around Nüsttal guide.
The Haunetalsperre (also known as Haunestausee) features a 5 km long circular path, perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. The Haunetal Cycle Path runs directly along the lake, connecting to the Nüsttal Cycle Path for extended rides.
Yes, Haselsee is a great option for families. It offers pedal boats and rowing boats for hire, a Grimms Fairy Tale Trail with figures, a children's playground, and a multi-purpose tower. In winter, it even transforms into an ice rink.
Absolutely. A significant portion of the Haunetalsperre is designated as a nature reserve, providing a habitat for various bird species, amphibians, and fish. It's an excellent spot for nature observation, with visitors often spotting gray herons.
Near the Ulmenstein Basalt Lake, you'll find seating areas with views, a barbecue hut, and a fire pit. A rustic shepherd's wagon near the "Himmelsschauplatz" offers coffee, cold drinks, homemade cake, and snacks on Sundays from May to October. For Haselsee, there's a nearby café where you can rent boats.
Swimming is possible in some lakes, though often at your own risk. For example, the Ulmenstein Basalt Lake has refreshing waters and small paths leading to a bathing jetty, but swimming is undertaken at one's own risk.
On the Haunetalsperre, water sports are possible for members or guests of the Wassersportverein Marbach e.V. Additionally, anglers with a permit can fish in designated areas.
Yes, the Nüsttal region offers mountain biking opportunities. While specific trails directly around the lakes may vary, you can explore a range of MTB routes in the broader area by checking our MTB Trails around Nüsttal guide.
The lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the recreational facilities. Autumn offers stunning foliage, and even in winter, some areas like Haselsee offer activities like ice skating, weather permitting.
Many areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, especially for walks on designated paths. The Haunestausee, for example, has a circular route that is popular for walks with dogs. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash where required, particularly in nature reserve sections.
The lakes provide tranquil natural escapes with diverse environments. They offer opportunities for relaxation, active recreation like hiking and cycling, and nature observation. The combination of unique geological features, mixed forests, and open meadows creates a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors.


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