Best lakes around Dankernsee are found in Haren, Emsland, Lower Saxony, Germany, with Dankernsee serving as the largest bathing lake in the Emsland region. This area provides a variety of sports and leisure activities, centered on its extensive sandy beach and clear water. The lake is known for diverse water sports, including waterskiing and diving, and features natural elements such as a large sand dune. Its location adjacent to the "Schloss Dankern" Holiday Center supports a wide range of recreational opportunities.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Dankernsee.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Lake Dankern lies west of Haren (Ems) in the Emsland district and is an artificially created bathing lake of approximately 30 hectares. It was formed in the 1970s by the extraction of gravel from a former sand pit and is now part of the Schloss Dankern holiday resort. The lake features shallow shorelines, a sandy beach, and good water quality, making it a popular destination for swimmers, sailors, and surfers. Surrounded by forests and dunes, it is also an excellent area for hiking.
1
0
In the section of Lake Dankern facing the holiday park, there's a fantastic waterskiing facility. The facility is open almost year-round and features a 600-meter-long circuit. More information at https://www.schloss-dankern.de/attraktionen/wasserski-bootsverleih
1
0
It was certainly interesting to watch. I think the prices for this pleasure are reasonable.
0
0
Beautiful waterski facility with a great beach 🏖️
0
1
Beautiful recreational water. Here the route planner sends private property guarded. Cycle back sand path in left for bakery also left of you. Drive out path left on paved and the route picks it up again.
1
0
Very nice Dankern See in November
2
0
We were there last week on vacation, it's just beautiful
5
0
Very steep on the sea side, easier to climb from the other side.
5
0
Dankernsee is a hub for water sports. You can enjoy pedal boating, stand-up paddling, and even explore the underwater world with Seabobs. For thrill-seekers, there's the Dankernsee Water Ski Cable Park, offering waterskiing and wakeboarding on a 600-meter-long circuit. The lake is also a popular freshwater dive site with good visibility.
Yes, Dankernsee is very family-friendly. The Lake Dankern (Recreational Lake) offers a shallow, sandy beach perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The area is nestled in coniferous forests, providing opportunities for easy hiking and cycling tours suitable for families. The adjacent "Schloss Dankern" Holiday Center also contributes to extensive recreational offerings.
Beyond the lake itself, a prominent natural feature is the Sand Dune at Dankernsee. This massive sand hill offers excellent views over the lake and is a popular spot for walks, especially to enjoy the sunset. There are also coniferous forests surrounding the lake, ideal for nature walks.
Yes, the area around Dankernsee offers various trails for hiking and cycling. The Lake Dankern (Recreational Lake) is surrounded by paths suitable for both activities. For more specific routes, you can explore options like those found in the Gravel biking around Dankernsee or MTB Trails around Dankernsee guides, which include easy to moderate routes.
Yes, Dankernsee is dog-friendly. There is a designated dog beach located on one end of the lake, allowing your furry friends to enjoy the water and surroundings. Many of the walking paths around the lake are also suitable for dogs.
Dankernsee is enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. For swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn are ideal. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Even in winter, the area can be suitable for walks.
The Sand Dune at Dankernsee is a prime viewpoint, offering expansive views over the lake. Additionally, there are several beautiful spots along the 4-kilometer tour around Lake Dankern, such as the View of the Lake highlight, from which you can enjoy wonderful vistas.
Yes, Dankernsee is recognized as a popular freshwater dive site. It's known for its clear waters, with visibility often ranging from 5 to 15 meters. Divers can explore submerged structures and natural formations. A diving school is conveniently located at the water's edge, offering equipment rental, a filling station, and introductory courses.
Dankernsee offers a range of amenities, including barbecue and campfire sites along its nearly three-kilometer-long sandy beach. There's also a well-stocked bistro for refreshments. The proximity to the "Schloss Dankern" Holiday Center means visitors have access to extensive recreational facilities and services.
Visitors frequently praise Dankernsee for its fantastic, very clean, and clear water, with sand as fine as flour. The recreational area, nestled in coniferous forests with a sandy beach, is highly appreciated for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The diverse activities and the beautiful natural setting make it a popular destination for families and active individuals.
Yes, the region around Dankernsee provides excellent opportunities for road cycling. You can find various routes, including those that follow the Ems River or connect different locks. For detailed routes and distances, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Dankernsee guide.


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