Best lakes around Albstadt are found within the Swabian Alb, a region known for its diverse outdoor activities, including hiking and mountain biking. While Albstadt itself is celebrated for its mountainous landscapes and extensive trails, several accessible water bodies offer recreational opportunities nearby. The area features natural and man-made lakes that serve as popular destinations for locals and visitors seeking aquatic recreation. These lakes contribute to the region's natural features, providing varied environments for outdoor pursuits.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also known as Schömberger Stausee, mostly just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6 ha Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl nature reserve surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end and has an area of 10.4 ha at 643.8 m above sea level (NHN), begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of about 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, already over 11 km long at its mouth, contributes almost 90%. The watercourses Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left, which are up to 1.2 km long, flow into it from the sides. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the builder of the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam structure is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay called Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also Schömberger Stausee, usually just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6-hectare Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl landscape protection area surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, which widens to about 175 m towards the end, with an area of 10.4 hectares at 643.8 m above sea level, begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of approximately 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, which is already over 11 km long at the inflow, contributes almost 90%. The Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and the Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left flow into it. From the Vorsee forebay near the Untere Säge, a fish ladder leads to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH) based in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the client for the dam, initially used it for cooling water and electricity generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After the Second World War, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The dam is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has a capacity of 60 kW. There is a forebay, the Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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Schömberger Reservoir
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In summer, it's often used for swimming and relaxing! But it's also beautiful any time of year.
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Very nice view of the lake. Great circular path. Numerous entrances to the bathing area.
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At Palmbühl on the Schömberg reservoir there is a free e-bike charging station with 3 sockets, marked but somewhat hidden.
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Kohlstatt-Brunnenbach Stausee 🌊 - Meßstetten-Oberdigisheim - Zollernalbkreis
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Premium hiking trail through the juniper heath and along the Albtrauf, past the Oberdigisheim reservoir, which is ideal for swimming in summer.
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For swimming, the Schömberg Reservoir is excellent, especially in summer, with DLRG supervision on weekends and during holidays. Another popular choice is the Oberdigisheim Reservoir, which offers generous lawns, a bathing island, and facilities like changing rooms and toilets.
Yes, both the Schömberg Reservoir and the Oberdigisheim Reservoir are highly recommended for families. The Oberdigisheim Reservoir features a playground and barbecue areas, while the Schömberg Reservoir is known for its calm, idyllic setting suitable for all ages. The Ice Pond is also in a local recreation area and considered family-friendly.
The lakes around Albstadt are set within the scenic Swabian Alb, offering diverse natural environments. You'll find idyllic water bodies like the Schömberg Reservoir, which provides beautiful views. The Oberdigisheim Reservoir is surrounded by natural landscapes and features a Kneipp facility. The Ice Pond, currently being converted into a biotope, offers a glimpse into local ecological efforts.
Beyond swimming, the lakes are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking or cycling around the Oberdigisheim Reservoir on its circular path. The broader Albstadt region is renowned for its extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. For mountain biking, explore routes like the GONSO Trail or ALB-GOLD Wadenbeißer, detailed in the MTB Trails around Albstadt guide. Cycling enthusiasts can find routes like the View of the Schömberg Reservoir loop in the Cycling around Albstadt guide. For hiking, consider trails from the Mountain Hikes around Albstadt guide.
Yes, the Oberdigisheim Reservoir has a pleasant circular path ideal for walks. While the Schömberg Reservoir is known for its quiet beauty, it also offers opportunities for leisurely strolls along its shores. For more challenging hikes, the surrounding Swabian Alb provides numerous options, which can be found in the Mountain Hikes around Albstadt guide.
The Oberdigisheim Reservoir is well-equipped with generous lawns, a playground, two barbecue areas, parking spaces, changing rooms, and toilet facilities. It also features a Kneipp facility. The Schömberg Reservoir is known for its serene environment and offers a beach area, with DLRG supervision during peak times.
Parking spaces are available at the Oberdigisheim Reservoir. While specific public transport details to each lake might vary, Albstadt itself has public transport connections. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most direct routes to the lake areas.
The lakes are particularly inviting during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, when swimming and water-based activities are most enjoyable. Summer is ideal for swimming at the Schömberg Reservoir and Oberdigisheim Reservoir. However, the surrounding trails and natural beauty can be appreciated year-round for walks and cycling, with autumn offering vibrant foliage.
While the Schömberg Reservoir and Oberdigisheim Reservoir are popular for swimming, they are managed recreational areas. For those seeking an organized water experience, the Badkap aqua park in Albstadt offers extensive indoor and outdoor pools heated year-round, along with wellness facilities, providing a comprehensive alternative to natural wild swimming spots.
The Schömberg Reservoir is often described as a beautiful, idyllic, and quiet area, making it a good choice if you're looking for a more peaceful experience. The Ice Pond, located in a local recreation area and being converted into a biotope, also offers a tranquil spot to linger.
Visitors particularly appreciate the opportunity for refreshing swims in summer at lakes like the Schömberg Reservoir and Oberdigisheim Reservoir. The family-friendly amenities, such as playgrounds and barbecue areas at Oberdigisheim, are also highly valued. Many enjoy the beautiful, idyllic, and quiet atmosphere for relaxation and short breaks.
The Oberdigisheim Reservoir features a circular path that is generally suitable for walks, which may accommodate strollers. For specific accessibility regarding wheelchairs, it's always best to check local conditions upon arrival, as terrain can vary. The region's focus on outdoor activities often includes well-maintained paths, but specific accessibility features for all lakes are not universally guaranteed.


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