Best lakes around Obertraubach, a municipality in Bavaria, Germany, offer diverse options for water-based recreation in the Upper Franconia region. While the municipality itself is small, the surrounding area features various lakes suitable for leisure activities. These bodies of water provide opportunities for swimming, boating, and enjoying the natural landscape. The region's lakes are a key feature for outdoor enthusiasts seeking natural relaxation and activity.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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I haven't been here for at least 45 years. At the time there was a tavern. We could have a drink there. go pedal boating. On Sunday there were people on the terrace and children laughing. Today, even if the site remains beautiful, there is not much left of this happy place. If any members have any information, I'm interested.
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An observation tower well worth taking a short break from your run to appreciate the view from the top.
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The Michelbach watershed is a nesting ground for waterfowl and waders. As with many artificial reservoirs, the dam has diversified the natural habitat.
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La Belle Île pond is actually a series of ponds with wooden walkways that allow you to reach the islets. There are several marked walks to do in the area.
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Built from 1979 to 1982, the dam regulates the water table and ensures the supply of drinking water to the Mulhouse conurbation and its surroundings. It is a protected place, classified as an approved voluntary nature reserve. The Mulhouse water service and the joint syndicate of the Michelbach dam ensure the management and operation of the infrastructures. A 4km pedestrian circuit (about 1h30 walk) allows, thanks to educational panels, to discover and observe many species of birds that nest there or are passing through (cormorant, osprey, crow, etc.). On the horizon stand out the peaks of the Vosges such as the Rossberg, the Thannerhubel, the Markstein or the Grand Ballon. Guided tours are organized in summer by the Tourist Office of Thann-Cernay.
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Why should a detour here be worthwhile? You just have to look at the pictures....
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Access by gravel road, view of the lake and its fauna (geese, ducks...) the rest is done on paths in the forest and crossing the small river without too much difficulty and fun. ok gravel, mountain bike, cycle tourism not too busy.
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Yes, several lakes in the region are ideal for families. Michelbach Lake offers a 4 km pedestrian circuit perfect for walks and bird watching. Étang La Belle Île features wooden walkways and marked trails to explore islets. The Lake Observatory also has a children's playground and a tower for scenic views. Additionally, Untreusee near Hof recently opened a new children's playground, and Fichtelsee provides a children's playground and sports fields.
The lakes offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy swimming, pedal boating, sailing, surfing, and fishing at lakes like Weißenstädter See and Rudufersee. Kieswäsch Lake is popular for beach volleyball and even ice sports in winter. Many lakes, including Michelbach Lake and Fichtelsee, have circular trails suitable for walking, cycling, or inline skating. Bird watching is also a popular activity at Michelbach Lake.
Absolutely. Michelbach Lake features an easily accessible 4 km pedestrian circuit. Weißenstädter See also has a 4 km long, accessible shore path ideal for walks. Kieswäsch Lake offers continuous views along its walking and cycling paths, and Rudufersee has a nature trail to explore local flora and fauna. The tour around the Lake Observatory is also a pleasant walk.
You can find diverse natural beauty and viewpoints. Michelbach Lake is a protected nature reserve known for bird watching, with views of the Vosges peaks. The Lake Observatory provides panoramic views from its observation tower. Weißenstädter See offers scenic views of the Großer Waldstein and Schneeberg mountains. Étang La Belle Île is characterized by a series of ponds and wooden walkways connecting islets, offering a unique landscape.
The lakes are generally enjoyable throughout the year, depending on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months from May to September are ideal, as Rudufersee is typically open during this period. For walking, cycling, and enjoying the scenery, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage. Kieswäsch Lake even becomes popular for ice sports in winter.
Yes, several lakes are excellent for swimming. Weißenstädter See boasts 'excellent' water quality for bathing. Fichtelsee is an artificially created storage pond that serves as a natural outdoor swimming area. Kieswäsch Lake offers a classic bathing area with good water quality, and Rudufersee features a sandy beach and a non-swimmer area with a shallow shore, complete with amenities like showers and lifeguards.
You'll find various cycling routes. For road cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Morschwiller Path – Riverside open-air tavern loop' or the 'Bridge over the Traubach – Bellemagny loop'. If you prefer touring, consider the 'Port of Dannemarie – The ponds of the Sundgau loop' or the 'EuroVelo 6 in Dannemarie'. Many of these routes are accessible from the general area around Obertraubach. You can find more details on these and other cycling routes at Cycling around Obertraubach or Road Cycling Routes around Obertraubach.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of the lakes. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Bassin de rétention D103 loop from Falkwiller' or the 'Traubach-le-Bas – Scenic path loop'. These trails offer varying distances and difficulties, providing options for different fitness levels. More information on running trails can be found at Running Trails around Obertraubach.
Many lakes offer convenient amenities. Kieswäsch Lake provides a kiosk, toilets, and beach volleyball courts. Rudufersee features toilets, showers, lifeguards, a kiosk, and even allows camping with prior application. Weißenstädter See is part of a health resort offering radon and cryotherapy, alongside classic spa treatments. The Pond and Cabin between Fulleren and Carspach has a permanently open cabin with a small barbecue area, ideal for shelter or a snack.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and the natural beauty. Many enjoy the peaceful walks and bird watching at places like Michelbach Lake, or the unique experience of exploring islets via wooden walkways at Étang La Belle Île. The scenic views from the Lake Observatory are also highly rated. The overall appeal lies in the blend of active recreation and tranquil natural settings.
While specific accommodation details are not provided for every lake, the region around Obertraubach, particularly near larger lakes like Weißenstädter See, offers various options. Weißenstädter See is associated with a health resort, implying accommodation and dining facilities. Rudufersee recently opened a 'Caribbean Corner' with a gastronomic concept. Generally, popular recreational lakes often have kiosks or nearby restaurants, especially in towns like Bad Weißenstadt.
Yes, Michelbach Lake is classified as an approved voluntary nature reserve. It's a protected place that regulates the water table and ensures drinking water supply, while also providing a habitat for many bird species. This makes it an important ecological site for observation and appreciation of local wildlife.


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