Top 20 Lakes around Haren (Ems)
Best lakes around Haren (Ems) are situated in Germany's Emsland region, offering diverse aquatic landscapes. This area features notable examples like Dankernsee, known for extensive recreational activities, and Saller See, providing a tranquil experience. The region's natural setting includes both large bathing lakes and protected nature reserves, making it suitable for various outdoor pursuits.
Best lakes around Haren (Ems)
- The most popular lakes is Lake Dankern (Recreational Lake), a lake that is a recreational area for the whole family,…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Bargerveen Nature Reserve
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Lake Dankern (Recreational Lake)
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Thatched Shelter by the Lake
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Dankern Lake
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Südliches Versener Moor Nature Reserve
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Popular around Haren (Ems)
The Ems Cycle Route – in 7 stages from the Senne to the North Sea
Exploring Hümmling Nature Park by bike: nature, history, and vast landscapes
On Trails through the Moor – Bourtanger Moor-Veenland Nature Park
The anniversary loops along the Dortmund-Ems Canal cycle route
Where the Ems and Hase flow – beautiful cycle Tours along water in Emsland
Our top 10 themed cycle Tours in Emsland
Moors, forests and heaths — hiking in the Hümmling Nature Park
The most beautiful hikes in the Nature Park Moor-Veenland in northern Germany
Cycling around Haren (Ems)
Hiking around Haren (Ems)
Other adventures around Haren (Ems)
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After the peat bog was extracted in the 1960s, the Dutch Forestry Commission began the renaturation of what is now the Bargerveen nature reserve. Today, due to its exceptional diversity of flora and fauna, it enjoys special protection as a European bird sanctuary and an important wetland. You can explore the area on approximately 30 kilometers of hiking trails, enjoy panoramic views of the bog from the observation hill and tower, or experience the unique landscape on guided tours and accessible rides on the Veenland Express train.
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The Southern Versen Moor lies northwest of Meppen and covers approximately 100 hectares. The area belongs to the Bourtanger Moor-Veenland Nature Park and has been a protected nature reserve since 1999. Part of the area was formerly used for industrial peat extraction, while other sections remain as original raised bogs. Today, the moor is being rewetted to promote the typical vegetation of sphagnum mosses, cotton grass, and heather. The wetlands provide habitat for numerous bird and amphibian species. At the same time, the area contributes to water retention and reduces carbon dioxide emissions – an important contribution to climate protection.
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Beautiful nature all around and an exceptional shelter directly on the lake
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Nice shelter when the weather doesn't play along.
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Beautifully made by Elg reeddekkersbedrijf
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Enjoy the view over the lake from the Sandberg
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Can be walked all the way around and can be very entertaining depending on the ability of the users.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Haren (Ems) are best for families?
For families, Lake Dankern (Recreational Lake) is highly recommended due to its cleanliness, diverse recreational options, and extensive sandy beach. It's part of a leisure and holiday center with many activities. The recreation area around Saller See also offers family-friendly amenities like miniature golf and pedal boat rentals.
What water sports can I do at the lakes in Haren (Ems)?
Dankernsee is a hub for water sports, offering pedal boat rentals, a waterskiing facility, stand-up paddling, and even Seabobs for underwater exploration. There's also a diving school for those interested in diving. Saller See provides pedal boat rentals from March to October.
Are there hiking or cycling trails near the lakes?
Yes, the Saller See recreation area is ideal for nature enthusiasts, with numerous trails for cycling and hiking. You can also find trails around the Südliches Versener Moor Nature Reserve. For more options, explore the 'Hiking around Haren (Ems)' guide or the 'Cycling around Haren (Ems)' guide for routes like the 'Schipper Tour' or 'Ems Cycle Path'.
Where can I find a quiet spot for nature observation or relaxation?
The Thatched Shelter by the Lake offers a quiet area for walking and cycling within a large living raised bog, serving as a wonderful refuge and vantage point. The Saller See recreation area also provides a more tranquil experience with charming picnic areas and trails.
Are there any nature reserves around the lakes in Haren (Ems)?
Yes, the Südliches Versener Moor Nature Reserve is a protected area covering approximately 100 hectares. It's part of the Bourtanger Moor-Veenland Nature Park and is being rewetted to promote typical moorland vegetation, providing a habitat for numerous bird and amphibian species.
What amenities and facilities are available at Dankernsee?
Dankernsee features a three-kilometer-long shallow sandy beach, barbecue and campfire sites, and a bistro. It's surrounded by a leisure and holiday center with over 700 holiday homes. You'll also find a diving school, a waterskiing and wakeboard park, and specific dog-friendly beach sections.
Is the water quality good for swimming at Dankernsee?
Yes, the water quality at Dankernsee has been consistently rated as very good since 1998, in accordance with EU guidelines, making it an excellent choice for swimming.
Are there any accessible paths or lakes for wheelchairs?
The Path of Diversity by the lake behind the Meppen district administration features a paved path around the lake, making it wheelchair accessible. It also has many seats and is easy to reach.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Near Dankernsee, you'll find a bistro and the extensive Schloss Dankern Freizeit- und Ferienzentrum with its own facilities. The Saller See recreation area includes a campsite, a hotel with a restaurant, and a bistro, offering options for both dining and accommodation.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
Dankernsee has specific sections designated as dog-friendly beaches, allowing you to enjoy the lake with your canine companion.
What unique activities can I experience at the lakes beyond swimming?
Beyond swimming, Dankernsee offers waterskiing, wakeboarding, and even Seabobs for exploring underwater. At Saller See, you can try the Nordic Fitness and Skiking Park Südliches Emsland, which provides seven signposted routes and a biathlon experience with a laser shooting range, even in summer.
Where can I go for a run near the lakes?
For running, you can explore routes around Dankernsee, such as the 'Dankern Lake – Wooden bridge over Lake Dankern loop'. More running trails are available in the 'Running Trails around Haren (Ems)' guide.
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