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Germany
Bavaria
Middle Franconia

Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

Top 20 Lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

Best lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt offer diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. This region in Bavaria features a variety of lakes, many nestled within forests or offering scenic viewpoints. The area provides opportunities to explore both natural and artificially created bodies of water. Visitors can find lakes suitable for family outings, quiet contemplation, or specific seasonal activities.

Best lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

  • The most popular lakes is Sklavensee, an artificially created lake with a unique history, formed from construction rubble in the 1970s. It is known for winter activities like skating and sledding, and features a fish educational trail.
  • Another must-see spot is Small Bishop's Pond, a natural lake located within a forest. Visitors can expect a tranquil setting ideal for observing nature or taking a break.
  • Visitors also love Great Bishop's Pond, a lake with facilities and a beach. This location offers amenities like a kiosk and a small playground, making it suitable for families.
  • Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt is known for natural lakes, artificial ponds, and lakes with family-friendly facilities. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with beaches to those surrounded by forests.
  • The lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 750 upvotes and over 120 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: May 17, 2026

Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg

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In the forest there are several ponds. Lovingly, the ponds are called by the Erlangern "Swan Lake" or fairy tale pond. A very nice area to forget the stress of everyday life and relax.

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Great Bishop's Pond

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Nice lake to barbecue and swim. Kiosk is always well sorted.

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Sklavensee

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Cleaning up was “slave work”

The Grubweiher, as it is correctly called, is an artificially created lake. It was created in the late 60s and 70s when construction rubble was dumped at the entrance to the Kehlgraben. The water from “Webersbuckel” could no longer drain away and so a lake was formed covering an area of one hectare and with a water depth of up to five meters. Water samples showed good results so that it could be used for fishing.
Link:
nordbayern.de/region/erlangen/lehrpfad-am-see-1.2528664

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In addition to good food and a cool beer, another advantage is that you can cycle largely car-free. This makes it ideal for families with children, especially since there is also lemonade. :-)

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Small Bishop's Pond

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Beautifully located in nature. Just get down and watch nature.

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Dechsendorfer Weiher

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There is everything you need at the lake and also a playground

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Sambach Pond

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In the Kalchreuther Andreaskirche there is a pietà made of linden wood. Stories handed down to this impressive Mother of God and a small tale of wicked action by the medieval population: from Nuremberg, the Reformation movement sloshed into the surrounding towns at the beginning of the 16th century - even to Kalchreuth. The Catholic Kalchreuther church became Protestant. Some zealots are said to have sunk the Madonna here in the pond. But the next morning, the Pietà should have been back in the church.

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Kreuzweiher

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The Kreuzweiher is very idyllic in the forest. Next to it is the eponymous restaurant, which also offers a beer garden in summer. The restaurant is interesting for hikers, as well as for the guests of the neighboring campsite.

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The Weißensee is an idyllic body of water with a small island and is located in the Erlenstegener Forest and thus in the Sebalder Reichswald north-east of Nuremberg. It is part of the eleven kilometer long deep trench. The Weißensee once served as a motif for Albrecht Dürer for a watercolour.

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Middle Swan Pond

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Varied pond landscape with two cool springs.

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Karottencity 🎱
January 12, 2025, Großer Bischofsweiher

The Dechsendorfer Weiher (Großer Bischofsweiher) and the almost equally large Kleiner Bischofsweiher were created in the Middle Ages by the Bamberg bishops as carp ponds. Due to the large water surfaces and the immediate surroundings, both ponds are of great importance for species and biotope protection, especially for water birds. The Dechsendorfer Weiher are a popular destination for those seeking local recreation due to their proximity and closeness to nature. The pond is used as a bathing pond; however, use was restricted by the algae problem. The bathing ban is also announced locally and by clearly visible signs or signs at the bathing area. The fields to the west of the ponds are in the Sandachse Franken nature conservation project and the forest areas of the Markwald directly adjacent to the east are protected forest. The entire area is a landscape conservation area. The Dechsendorfer Weiher was previously flowed through by the Röttenbach. This has now been created as a new Röttenbach over a length of 1.6 km from the intermediate dam inlet area to the downstream area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher. A near-natural watercourse is intended to improve the previously moderate water structure and create new habitats for the ecological diversity of nature. The lack of passability of the Röttenbach was restored. In the new Röttenbach, nutrients, sediments and also fish from the catchment area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher can be diverted around it into the downstream area of the pond. The pond is no longer in the main tributary but in the bypass and can therefore be managed in terms of the quality and quantity of the incoming water. With the targeted planting of aquatic plants, the pond was returned to a plant-dominated state. [ Source: https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/gewaesserschutz-dechsendorfer-weiher ]

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That means, in summer, a lot of grey geese that poop all over the meadow (actually a lawn with a bathing area)

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Currently free again. The beaver 🦫 had made himself comfortable under the forest path. Danger of collapse ⚠️

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Below Adlitz are the Swan Ponds. They're apparently currently on vacation 🤣. The plastic ones have to step in.

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There is everything you need at the lake and also a playground

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It was even open today at around 1pm. The daily menu included currywurst, schnitzel and bratwurst. A really lovely and huge beer garden (all new seating outside), very inviting and the food is delicious. Also ideal with children because there is almost no traffic and the adjacent pond is always inviting to watch frogs :-)

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Because "smaller" is sometimes more.....

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Pure nature - only hikers and cyclists find their way here. The majority of those seeking relaxation have long since found their place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Which lakes are best for families in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt?

Several lakes in the region are ideal for families. Great Bishop's Pond offers a beach, a kiosk, and a small playground. The Sklavensee features a fish educational trail and is popular for sledding in winter. Additionally, the Middle Swan Pond is known for having things for children to discover.

Are there lakes with facilities or beaches in the area?

Yes, Great Bishop's Pond is a popular choice, offering a beach, a kiosk, and a small playground, making it well-suited for a day out.

Where can I find tranquil lakes for nature observation?

For a tranquil setting, visit Small Bishop's Pond, nestled within a forest and ideal for observing nature. The Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg also offers a very nice area to relax and forget the stress of everyday life.

What unique features or history do the lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt have?

The Sklavensee (correctly called Grubweiher) has a unique history; it was artificially created in the 1970s from construction rubble. It's known for its fish educational trail and is a popular spot for winter activities like skating and sledding.

What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?

The region around the lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find easy hikes, running trails, and road cycling routes. For detailed routes, explore the Easy hikes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt, Running Trails in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt, and Road Cycling Routes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt guides.

Are there hiking trails around the lakes?

Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For example, you can find easy loop trails like the 'View of the Sklavensee – Stettenberggraben loop from Kalchreuth' or the 'View of Franconian Switzerland – Middle Swan Pond loop from Bubenreuth'. More options are available in the Easy hikes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt guide.

Can I enjoy winter activities at the lakes?

Yes, the Sklavensee is particularly noted for winter activities. While not suitable for swimming, its shallow waters make it ideal for skating, and the slopes next to the lake are excellent for sledding.

Which lakes offer good viewpoints?

Many lakes in the region provide scenic viewpoints. Great Bishop's Pond, Sklavensee, Small Bishop's Pond, and Middle Swan Pond are all highlighted for their views, offering picturesque spots to enjoy the landscape.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt?

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and the opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities. Many enjoy the tranquil settings of lakes like Small Bishop's Pond, the family-friendly amenities at Great Bishop's Pond, and the unique character of Sklavensee. The komoot community has shared over 120 photos and given more than 750 upvotes across various lake highlights.

Are there any hidden gem lakes or less crowded spots?

For a more secluded experience, consider lakes like Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg, often referred to as 'fairy tale pond,' or Sambach Pond and Kreuzweiher, which are nestled within forests and offer peaceful settings away from larger crowds.

Are there easy walking paths around the lakes?

Yes, many lakes offer easy walking paths suitable for all skill levels. For instance, the area around the Middle Swan Pond provides an idyllic setting with benches for resting. You can find more easy routes in the Easy hikes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt guide.

Most popular routes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

Family-friendly hikes in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

Most popular attractions in Landkreis Erlangen-Höchstadt

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