Top 20 Lakes around Erpolzheim
Best lakes around Erpolzheim are found in a region characterized by its proximity to the Palatinate Forest and agricultural landscapes. The area features diverse natural water bodies, including natural bog ponds and former quarry lakes. These lakes offer opportunities for outdoor activities and natural observation.
Best lakes around Erpolzheim
- The most popular lakes is Ungeheuersee, a lake that is a flat bog pond and protected as a natural monument. It is an idyllic place, suitable for walking around, with…
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Ungeheuersee
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Kriemhildenstuhl Roman Quarry
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Many display boards provide information on site about this cultural and historical highlight.
Due to the proximity to the city and the good …
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Basalt Lake South Quarry (Forst, Palatinate)
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Basalt Lake (Nordbruch)
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It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt …
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Lambsheimer Weiher
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Tips from the Community
So no one has to slip through the fence to take photos
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Something really great was built there. The platform was newly installed and now you have a great view of the quarry and the lake.
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Since June 2024, there has been an observation platform on the edge of the Nordbruch crater lake, which offers a great view of one of the two basalt lakes. Information board no. 7 next to the viewing platform tells the interesting story of this quarry: "The basalt deposit around Forst is 820 m long and 260 m wide and is slightly dumbbell-shaped. The Margaretental runs through the middle of the deposit, which is why the basalt had to be mined in TWO separate quarries. The north quarry was the first to be opened up in 1841, but production there was only for the quarry's own needs. Five years later, in 1846, mining also began in the south quarry. In 1897, mining in the north quarry was stopped until a lease agreement with the municipality of Forst made further mining possible in 1911. A 2800 m long cable car was built to transport the extracted rock, which ended directly at the railway line near Deidesheim and was only replaced by a transport road in 1969. Mining in the south quarry was stopped in 1964. In December 1990, operations in Nordbruch finally ceased. Following the closure, both sites were recultivated and officially returned to nature in 2011."
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Platform with a great view of the basalt lake deep in the crater. Now nobody has to climb over the fence anymore 😉
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Great sight if you're tall enough to look over the edge. Not visible to children. Luckily it was completely cordoned off due to the brittle edges. Impressive crater!
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From the path, the ballast quarry offers an impressive view of the lake that has formed there. It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt found there. The ballast was mined in open-cast mining until the 1980s. In addition to a smaller crater in the southwest, a larger one was created in the northeast, which is 100 m deep and 200 m in diameter. Initially, the rock was transported by a circular cable car to a loading station with a grinding mill on the Neustadt-Bad Dürkheim railway line. The cable car was more than 2 km long and ran between Forst an der Weinstraße and Deidesheim across the German Wine Route. After basalt mining was stopped, the grinding mill and cable car were dismantled and the edges of the craters were cordoned off to prevent access. Because the water escaping in the mining area is no longer pumped out as it was during mining times, two ponds formed on the bottom of the mining craters, which are now natural biotopes.
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This is the smaller, more accessible lake that emerged after the basalt quarries near Forst were abandoned in the 1980s. Today it's a nature reserve, so you'd better avoid swimming here. It's definitely worth seeing.
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A highlight for big and small
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly lakes around Erpolzheim?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The Lambsheimer Weiher features a beach bar and restaurant, making it a great spot for a day out with kids. The Ungeheuersee is also considered family-friendly, offering an idyllic setting for walks. Additionally, the Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) has an observation platform that can be enjoyed by all ages.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at the lakes near Erpolzheim?
The region offers diverse natural water bodies, including natural bog ponds and former quarry lakes. You can explore the unique ecosystem of the Ungeheuersee, a protected flat bog pond. The Basalt Lake South Quarry and Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) are fascinating examples of lakes formed in abandoned basalt quarries, now designated nature reserves.
Are there good viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
Absolutely. The Basalt Lake South Quarry offers fantastic views, perfect for a quiet picnic. At the Basalt Lake (Nordbruch), there's an observation platform providing an impressive perspective into the deep crater lake. You can also find beautiful vistas of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey from the View of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey highlight.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Erpolzheim?
The area around Erpolzheim is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate options, that often pass by or lead to these lakes. For cycling enthusiasts, there are both road cycling and touring bicycle routes available. Explore more options on the dedicated guides for Hiking around Erpolzheim, Road Cycling Routes around Erpolzheim, and Cycling around Erpolzheim.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, the Ungeheuersee is particularly noted as an idyllic place where you can easily walk around the lake. Many of the hiking routes in the region also offer easy sections suitable for leisurely strolls near the water. For more hiking options, refer to the Hiking around Erpolzheim guide.
What amenities are available at the lakes?
Amenities vary by lake. The Lambsheimer Weiher is well-equipped with a restaurant and a beach bar, sometimes even hosting live music. The Ungeheuersee has a PWV hut on site, though it's advisable to check opening hours. Other lakes, like the Basalt Lakes, are more focused on natural preservation and offer fewer direct amenities but are great for quiet picnics.
Can I find historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical interest. For instance, the View of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey highlight offers a scenic perspective that includes the historic Limburg Abbey ruins, providing a blend of nature and history.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Erpolzheim?
Visitors appreciate the diverse experiences offered, from the tranquil, protected natural monuments like the Ungeheuersee to recreational spots with amenities such as the Lambsheimer Weiher. The quiet areas with fantastic views, like those found at the Basalt Lake South Quarry, are also highly valued for picnics and relaxation.
Are there any hidden or less-known lakes worth exploring?
While the guide highlights popular spots, the region's character with its natural bog ponds and former quarry lakes means there are many smaller, less-trafficked water bodies. The Basalt Lake South Quarry, for example, is described as a quiet area, offering a more secluded experience within a nature reserve.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Erpolzheim?
The lakes can be enjoyed throughout the year, depending on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage changes. Summer is ideal for enjoying amenities like the beach bar at Lambsheimer Weiher. Even in winter, the serene landscapes around lakes like the Ungeheuersee can be beautiful for quiet walks.
Are there opportunities for circular walks or loop trails around the lakes?
Yes, many of the hiking routes in the area are designed as circular or loop trails, allowing you to explore the natural surroundings and lakes without retracing your steps. For specific routes, you can check the Hiking around Erpolzheim guide, which features several loop options.
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