Lakes around Harpstedt offer diverse recreational opportunities, though the municipality itself does not contain large lakes. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park and various natural and man-made water bodies. These lakes and ponds provide settings for activities such as swimming, cycling, walking, and angling. The landscape features a mix of forests, moors, and river systems, contributing to the area's natural appeal.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Here the Hunter Cycle Path leads on gravel through the Pestrup Moor. It is a pleasant ride, though. The landscape and nature are wonderful.
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The water in the newly connected oxbow lake is currently still quite dirty, but it is becoming clearer as a result of the replacement. The old water that flows out takes the mud with it. Such so-called oxbow lakes were created in the course of the straightening of the Hunte between 1954 and 1959, which was carried out for land reclamation, as SUN managing director Rudolf Stukenborg reported.
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Nice rest area. Today there were some angler friends at the start
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Beautiful bathing lake, but the campsite is also recommended, courteous staff and clean sanitary facilities. If you want to be sure to eat in the restaurant, it is best to reserve early.
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Hunte + Hunte backwaters The Hunte is a 189 km long, western tributary of the Weser in Lower Saxony * rises in the Wiehen Mountains (near Osnabrück), crosses the Dümmer, flows through the Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park in the direction of Oldenburg and flows into the Weser northwest of Bremen. Currently, the Hunte is not yet ecologically continuous, but a renaturation, as has already happened with other bodies of water, is being planned. In the past, the course of the Hunte was repeatedly changed, which resulted in Hunte backwaters, as can be seen here.
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Hunte + Hunte oxbows The Hunte is a 189 km long western tributary of the Weser in Lower Saxony * rises in the Wiehen Mountains (near Osnabrück), crosses the Dümmer, flows through the Wildeshauser Geest Nature Park towards Oldenburg and flows into the Weser northwest of Bremen. The Hunte is currently not yet ecologically continuous but a renaturation as has already happened with other bodies of water is being planned. In the past, the Hunte was repeatedly changed in its course, which resulted in Hunte oxbows as can be seen here.
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A nice place for a break. Anglers are often found here.
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For swimming, Steller See is a popular choice with a sandy beach and a kiosk. Another excellent option is the Kleiner Bornhorster See, which also features a sandy beach, sunbathing lawns, and DLRG supervision during the bathing season from May 15 to September 15.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Steller See is ideal, offering a sandy beach, playground, and an adjacent campsite. The Kleiner Bornhorster See is also family-friendly with a beach and sunbathing areas. Additionally, The Hunte River and its oxbow lakes and Sculptures in the Mühlenteich Pond are noted as family-friendly spots for breaks and scenic views.
Many lakes offer pleasant paths. The Großer Bornhorster See has a 4-kilometer perimeter path popular with walkers and dog owners. The Tweelbäker See features a nearly 4-kilometer circular path ideal for walking, jogging, and cycling. For a unique cycling experience, the Hunteradweg through the Pestruper Moor offers a pleasant ride through a wonderful landscape.
The region offers diverse natural beauty. The Hunte River and its oxbow lakes provide a tranquil setting resulting from past river course changes. The Swarte Moor Lake offers a peaceful natural escape with a wild herb nature trail. You can also find scenic viewpoints at Sculptures in the Mühlenteich Pond, where you can relax on a bench or jetty with a view over the mill pond.
The Großer Bornhorster See is known for its 4-kilometer perimeter path, which is popular with dog owners for walks. While specific regulations for other lakes vary, this lake provides a good option for enjoying the outdoors with your dog.
Beyond swimming, you can enjoy various activities. Großer Bornhorster See permits surfing and sailing. The Swarte Moor Lake is popular for angling and model boat enthusiasts, and it also has a beach volleyball court and climbing area. At Tweelbäker See, you can find a beach volleyball court and a stand-up paddling station during summer months.
Yes, some lakes offer amenities. Steller See has a kiosk, restaurant, and snack bar, with good food available at the Seestübchen. The Kleiner Bornhorster See also features a kiosk for refreshments.
The summer months are generally ideal, especially if you plan to swim. The bathing season at Kleiner Bornhorster See, for example, runs from May 15 to September 15 with DLRG supervision. Steller See also creates a holiday feeling in summer with its sandy beach. For walking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery.
Absolutely! The region around Harpstedt offers numerous trails. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'Mooshütte, Harpstedt Forest – Small Pond Harpstedt loop' or the 'Forest Kindergarten Harpstedt – Ozeanbrücke (Ocean Bridge) Over the Moor loop'. For running, options include the 'Ozeanbrücke (Ocean Bridge) Over the Moor loop' or the 'Running loop from Harpstedt'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Harpstedt and Running Trails around Harpstedt guides.
Angling is a popular activity at several lakes. You'll often find anglers at The Hunte River and its oxbow lakes. The Kleiner Bornhorster See and Swarte Moor Lake are also favored spots for anglers.
While some lakes are designated for swimming, others have restrictions. Swimming is explicitly prohibited at Tweelbäker See and Großer Bornhorster See. Always check local signage and regulations before entering the water.
The region is characterized by its diverse landscape. The Hunte River and its oxbow lakes are a result of historical changes to the river's course, offering unique natural formations. The Hunteradweg through the Pestruper Moor provides access to a wonderful moor landscape, showcasing the area's natural appeal.


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