Top 20 Lakes around Straufhain
Best lakes around Straufhain are situated within the Hildburghausen district, an area characterized by its forested hills and diverse water features. The region offers a mix of natural beauty and recreational opportunities centered around its lakes. These water bodies provide settings for outdoor activities and tranquil exploration within the Thuringian landscape. The area's geography supports a variety of lake types, from recreational bathing lakes to managed reservoirs.
Best lakes around Straufhain
- The most popular lakes is Cow Lake, a lake known for the annual Kuhseefest, featuring brass band music and local food. It is a popular spot for community gatherings and offers a tranquil setting near the Schnepfenbrunnen.
- Another must-see spot is Irmelshausen Lake, a family-friendly bathing and fishing lake with a sandy beach and campsite. Visitors can enjoy swimming, a children's playground, and a beach volleyball field.
- Visitors also love Rieth Reservoir, one of the largest lakes in the Heldburger Land. It is managed for fishing and offers scenic views, especially at sunset, making it a notable natural monument.
- Straufhain is known for recreational bathing lakes, managed reservoirs, and forest ponds. The region offers a variety of water bodies for different activities, from swimming and fishing to scenic viewpoints.
- The lakes around Straufhain are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 250 upvotes and 290 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Cow Lake
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Irmelshausen Lake
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Lakeside kiosk
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Rieth Reservoir
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Spanier pond
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Tips from the Community
The Riehter reservoir is an important water reservoir for the region.
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The Irmelshausen bathing lake and campsite is located directly on the green belt and at the foot of the Gleichberge mountains. The area, which was created in the mid-1970s, was completely renovated in 2017/18. The supply area was sustainably upgraded through renovation and new construction measures, the sanitary facilities were completely renovated and are now barrier-free. The family-friendly bathing and fishing lake is surrounded by a spacious lawn. In the north-western area there is a sandy beach with a jetty, as well as a children's playground with a water feature, table tennis tables and a beach volleyball court. https://badesee-irmelshausen.de/
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I wouldn't recommend it for swimming.
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The kiosk is only open until the end of the holidays in Bavaria. After that, according to the operators, it is no longer worth opening. So you should take this into account when planning your tour. There is a charging station here not only for the e-bike, but even for the cell phone if required.
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A cow lake, as the name already says, used to be a watering place for cattle on the pasture.
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The Irmelshausen bathing lake and campsite is located directly on the green belt and at the foot of the Gleichberge mountains. The area, which was created in the mid-1970s, was completely renovated in 2017/18. The supply area was sustainably upgraded through conversion and new construction measures, the sanitary facilities were completely renovated and are now barrier-free. The family-friendly bathing and fishing lake is surrounded by a spacious lawn. On the northwestern area there is a sandy beach with a jetty, as well as a children's playground with water equipment, table tennis and a beach volleyball field. Source:https://badesee-irmelshausen.de/
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The Rieth reservoir, or Stau Lauter, is one of the largest lakes in the Heldburger Land with over 20 hectares. A detour is worthwhile, just like the simple visit. Unfortunately, bathing is forbidden, the lake is managed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for swimming around Straufhain?
For swimming, Irmelshausen Lake is an excellent choice, offering a family-friendly bathing area with a sandy beach and facilities. Additionally, the **Bergsee Ratscher**, located within the broader Hildburghausen district, features the region's longest beach and is suitable for both textile and FKK bathing.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Straufhain region?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Irmelshausen Lake is very family-friendly, with a sandy beach, children's playground, and beach volleyball. Cow Lake is also considered family-friendly and hosts community gatherings like the annual Kuhseefest. The **Bergsee Ratscher** also offers a giant water slide and mini-golf, making it a popular spot for families.
What kind of water sports can I do at the lakes near Straufhain?
The **Bergsee Ratscher** is particularly well-suited for water sports, offering opportunities for surfing and sailing, with a dedicated school and equipment rentals available directly at the lake. Boat rentals are also an option for exploring the lake at a leisurely pace.
Where can I find facilities like cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
At Irmelshausen Lake, there is a Lakeside kiosk where you can enjoy food and drinks with a view. This kiosk also provides convenient electric bike and cell phone charging stations. The **Bergsee Ratscher** also has a campsite and various recreational facilities, implying amenities for visitors.
Are there hiking or running trails near the lakes around Straufhain?
Yes, the region offers various trails. For running, you can explore routes like the 'Toter Teich loop from Stressenhausen' or the 'Pond in Bad Rodach Kurpark loop from Roßfeld'. For easy hikes, consider the 'Stressenhausen – Landgasthof Schneider loop from Stressenhausen'. You can find more options on the Running Trails around Straufhain and Easy hikes around Straufhain guide pages.
What are the best lakes for scenic views or photography?
Rieth Reservoir is known for its scenic views, especially at sunset, making it a notable natural monument. Spanier pond also offers beautiful views, particularly in spring or autumn, with a pleasant forest route nearby.
Can I go fishing at the lakes in the Straufhain area?
Fishing is a popular activity in the region. Irmelshausen Lake is a designated fishing lake. Rieth Reservoir is also managed for fishing, though bathing is prohibited there. The **Bergsee Ratscher** also offers fishing opportunities.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Straufhain?
The recreational area around the **Bergsee Ratscher** is typically open from mid-April to mid-October, suggesting that the warmer months are ideal for enjoying bathing and water sports. However, lakes like Spanier pond are described as beautiful in every season, including spring and autumn, for scenic walks.
Are there any notable events or festivals held at the lakes?
Yes, Cow Lake is famous for its annual Kuhseefest, featuring brass band music and local food. The **Bergsee Ratscher** is well-known for hosting the annual Schleusinger Country Festival, as well as other events like the Summer Night Festival, Country Camp, Rocktage am Bergsee, and the Bergsee Triathlon.
Are there options for camping near the lakes?
Yes, Irmelshausen Lake has a campsite directly on its premises. Similarly, the **Bergsee Ratscher** offers a campsite with pitches for tents, caravans, and bungalows, allowing for extended stays right by the water.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are often surrounded by forested mountains and hills, characteristic of the Thuringian landscape. You'll find natural monuments like the Rieth Reservoir, and tranquil forest settings around places like Cow Lake and Spanier pond. The **Bergsee Ratscher** is nestled in the Thuringian Forest, offering an idyllic natural backdrop.
Are there mountain biking trails near the lakes?
Yes, the region provides mountain biking opportunities. You can find trails such as the 'Steinsburg Museum – Hotel Waldhaus Römhild loop from Gleichamberg' or the 'Roth Reservoir II – View of Großer Gleichberg loop from Bedheim'. More MTB routes are available on the MTB Trails around Straufhain guide page.
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