Best lakes around Artern are predominantly artificial bodies of water and ponds, characteristic of the region's landscape in Thuringia. The area is known for its recreational lakes and reservoirs, which serve as important natural habitats and local recreation destinations. These water bodies offer opportunities for various outdoor activities and provide significant natural features.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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Popular around Artern
A great stop whether you're with or without a bike, with plenty of bike parking within sight of your seat. Excellent value for money and friendly service. Draft beer and delicious mixed drinks are also available. We always enjoy coming here.
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Just take a break
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Beautiful nature, very beautiful area, very relaxing.
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There isn't much water left in the pond.
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This covered rest area at the fish pasture in Heldrungen is almost idyllic. With a little sun protection and a view of the ponds, you can enjoy a break.
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Nice rest area in the middle of the forest. The pond has very little water at the moment, but the frogs are croaking.
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While Artern itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the most significant body of water nearby is the Stausee Kelbra (Kelbra Reservoir). This large artificial lake is a popular recreational area and an important bird sanctuary. Other smaller, idyllic spots include Melmensee and the Forest pond in Borntal.
Stausee Kelbra offers a variety of activities. In summer, you can enjoy water sports like surfing and sailing, or go swimming at the lido. It's also a significant bird sanctuary, making it excellent for birdwatching, especially in autumn when up to 50,000 cranes stop over.
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. The Melmensee is an idyllic lake with a resting bench. The Covered rest area at the Fischweide in Heldrungen provides a pleasant break spot with views of ponds. The Forest pond in Borntal also offers a beautiful resting place suitable for families.
The region around Artern is characterized by artificial lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. You'll find diverse natural habitats, including significant bird sanctuaries like Stausee Kelbra, which is a crucial resting place for migratory birds. Many ponds are nestled within forests, offering peaceful, green surroundings.
The best time depends on your interest. For water sports and swimming, summer is ideal. For birdwatching, especially to see the cranes, autumn is highly recommended at Stausee Kelbra. Spring and early summer are great for hiking and enjoying the lush greenery around the ponds and reservoirs.
Yes, there are various hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes around Artern, such as the 'Jüngken's Viewpoint – Salinepark Artern loop' or the 'Artern Brine Spring – Idyllic Natural Pond loop'. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Artern guide.
Absolutely. The area offers cycling routes suitable for various levels. You can find gravel biking trails like the 'View of Kyffhäuser – Kyffhäuser Cycle Path loop' near Heldrungen. For more cycling adventures, check out the Gravel biking around Artern guide.
Visitors appreciate the peaceful and idyllic settings, often with good views and opportunities for relaxation. Spots like the Melmensee offer scenic views of the Kyffhäuser, while the Covered rest area at the Fischweide in Heldrungen is valued for its tranquil break opportunities.
Yes, for example, the Heldrunger Seeterrassen is a restaurant and cafe located near a lake, offering a great stop for food and drinks, even with bike parking. There are also various cafes and pubs in the nearby towns.
Yes, particularly Stausee Kelbra. It is recognized as a significant bird sanctuary and a crucial resting place for migratory birds, especially cranes. In autumn, it becomes the largest bird resting place in Central Germany, attracting many birdwatchers.
The Melmensee is said to have been created by a bomb drop, giving it a unique origin story. It's now an idyllic lake offering views of the Kyffhäuser.
Yes, you can find several convenient resting spots. The Covered rest area at the Fischweide in Heldrungen offers an idyllic setting with views of ponds. Additionally, the Forest pond in Borntal and the Waldschlösschen Pond and Shelter also provide pleasant resting places.


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