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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Ruhr Region
Dortmund

Phoenix-See

Attractions and Places To See around Phoenix-See - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Phoenix-See include a man-made lake in Dortmund, Germany, developed on the former site of a steel plant. This area exemplifies the structural transformation of the Ruhr region, offering a modern urban recreational space. Visitors can explore a variety of landmarks, green spaces, and cultural sites that blend industrial heritage with contemporary development. The lake and its surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation within an urban setting.

Best attractions and places to see around Phoenix-See

  • The most popular attractions is Phoenix Lake, a lake that exemplifies the structural transformation of the Ruhr area, built on a former industrial site. It offers a local recreation area with a bike path and opportunities for water sports.
  • Another must-see spot is Phoenix Lake Promenade and Hörde Castle Square, a significant lake area with a promenade. This location provides leisure opportunities and is a central point of interest around the lake.
  • Visitors also love Thomas Converter on the Culture Island, Phoenix Lake, a man-made monument. This remnant of the former steelworks stands on the Culture Island, offering views of the harbor and lake area.
  • Phoenix-See is known for its historical landmarks, recreational paths, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from industrial heritage sites to modern green spaces.
  • The attractions around Phoenix-See are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3500 upvotes and over 800 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: July 6, 2026

Phoenix Lake

Highlight • Lake

There used to be a huge industrial area here, the Phoenix Ost steelworks. It was recultivated, a lake, a residential area and a local recreation area were created. Today you can relax here and at the same time you are reminded of the past of this place and the Ruhr area itself.

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I can't understand how people make such a hype on this site today. Houses built on slag, waste from the steel industry, where you're not even allowed to sow a radish. At least that makes me think. maybe was literally "built on sand"
It's way too crowded for me, especially in the summer months, with pedestrians who don't follow any rules.
Why did the planners separate pedestrians from cyclists and install separate lanes? Switching on Brain.exe should also help here 👍
moreover, too many concrete surfaces that "heat up". A disaster in terms of air conditioning.

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The Thomas converter, colloquially known as the Thomas Pear, is a remnant of the former steelworks that once stood on the site of what is now Phoenix Lake. The Thomas Pear now stands on the so-called Culture Island in the lake. Various events are planned to take place here. From the island, which is set slightly in front of the lake, visitors have a good view of the harbor and the lake area.

Several benches offer the opportunity to take a break.

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Phoenix Lake

Highlight • Lake

Nice place to stay in the middle of the city. Restaurants are also available and you take a separate path to the pedestrians around the lake.

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Phoenix Lake South Shore

Highlight • Lake

Beautifully landscaped lake with a small harbor and many cafes. Numerous water birds cavort at the lake and are currently having offspring.

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Popular around Phoenix-See

The most beautiful railway cycle paths in the Ruhr area (north/northeast)

Hiking around Phoenix-See

Cycling around Phoenix-See

Running Trails around Phoenix-See

Road Cycling Routes around Phoenix-See

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The most beautiful railway cycle paths in the Ruhr area (north/northeast)

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Martin Donat

Tips from the Community

roland muentefering
November 13, 2025, Phoenix See

Here you can take a lovely walk or bike ride around the lake. There are also restaurants and an ice cream parlor. At the eastern end, there's a children's playground.

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Jachim
September 8, 2025, Phoenix See

A worthwhile destination that exemplifies the structural change in the Ruhr region. However, it gets quite crowded on weekends.

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Frank Arno
August 18, 2025, Phoenix See

The Phoenix is a truly successful redevelopment of the old steel site into a quasi-recreational area and has been very well received by local residents.

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Schwerte-Radler
February 16, 2024, Phoenix See

The Phoenix Lake in Dortmund is an outstanding example of structural change in the city and the Ruhr area. An artificial lake measuring around 24 hectares was created on the site of the former Phoenix-Ost steelworks and opened to the public in spring 2011. With its 24 hectares of water surface, the lake even exceeds that of the Alster in Hamburg. Excavation work for the lake began in September 2006, with around 2.5 million cubic metres of soil being moved. Flooding of the lake began on October 1, 2010 and reached the first target level about a year later. The lake, which is 1.2 km long and 320 metres wide, serves not only as a local recreation area, but also as a rainwater retention basin to protect the residential and commercial buildings downstream on the banks of the Emscher from flooding. The maximum depth of the lake is around 4.6 meters with a capacity of around 600,000 m³ of water. To maintain the water quality, a phosphate elimination plant was built north of the lake, which can filter up to 90 m³ of lake water per hour to remove phosphates and thus maintain the water quality. The promenade at Phoenix Lake and the surrounding areas offer a variety of leisure opportunities. In addition to the opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling or skating, there are also offers for water sports enthusiasts, although swimming, surfing, diving and fishing are not permitted in the lake. High-quality residential areas, commercial units, restaurants and a marina have been built around the lake, making the lake an attractive place for residents and visitors. The first catering establishment on the lake was the "Fénix" restaurant in the southern harbor district, which offers an outdoor terrace along the promenade. The Phoenix Lake is therefore not only a testament to the successful structural change from an industrial past to a modern residential and leisure area, but also an important element in the concept of urban development and flood protection. It plays a central role in the renaturation of the Emscher and, through its diverse uses and the surrounding commercial and catering options, contributes to improving the quality of life in the region.

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There's not much to say, it's beautiful here, always worth a visit.

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J.F.
September 14, 2023, Phoenix See

Nice place to stay in the middle of the city. Restaurants are also available and you take a separate path to the pedestrians around the lake.

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Hörder Burg, also known as Hörde, was built as a moated castle in the 12th century in the immediate vicinity of the Emscher. It is the ancestral seat of the Hörde noble family. Not far from the castle, at the confluence of the Emscher and Hörder Bach, was an economically important grain mill.

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Plastic and map provide information about Lake Phoenix

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical significance of Phoenix-See?

Phoenix-See is a remarkable example of structural transformation in the Ruhr area. It was developed on the former site of a ThyssenKrupp blast furnace and steel plant. A key historical landmark is the Thomas Converter on the Culture Island, a remnant of the former steelworks that stands as a monument to the region's industrial past.

What outdoor activities can I do at Phoenix-See?

The area around Phoenix-See offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, jogging, cycling, and skating on the paths surrounding the lake. While swimming, surfing, diving, and fishing are not permitted, there are opportunities for water sports like sailing. For more structured activities, explore the nearby routes for hiking, road cycling, and general cycling.

Are there walking or cycling paths around Phoenix-See?

Yes, the Phoenix Lake features a 3.2 km to 3.5 km long pedestrian and bicycle path around its perimeter. This path is structurally separate from the sidewalk, making it ideal for both leisurely strolls and cycling. Many visitors find it a beautiful route for experiencing the lake.

Where can I find the best views of Phoenix-See?

For panoramic views, head to Kaiserberg, an artificially created hill to the east of the lake, which offers expansive vistas over the city and Phoenix-See. Additionally, the Phoenix Lake Promenade provides excellent views of the lake and its urban waterfront ambiance, especially from the harbor district.

What natural features can I explore at Phoenix-See?

Beyond the lake itself, Phoenix-See is a popular spot for birdwatching. You might observe species such as Tufted Duck, Canada Goose, Reed Bunting, Black-headed Gull, Eurasian Moorhen, Egyptian Goose, and Mute Swan. The area also features modern residential buildings interspersed with green spaces, offering a pleasant natural retreat within an urban setting.

Are there family-friendly activities at Phoenix-See?

Yes, Phoenix-See is considered family-friendly. The flat pedestrian and bicycle paths around the lake are suitable for all ages, including children. The open green spaces provide room for play, and the promenade offers various leisure opportunities. Highlights like Phoenix Lake and the Phoenix Lake Promenade are categorized as family-friendly.

Is Phoenix-See accessible for visitors with mobility needs?

The main paths around Phoenix Lake are generally wheelchair accessible, making it possible for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the promenade and the views. The area was designed with modern urban planning in mind, often incorporating accessible routes.

Are there dining options or cafes around Phoenix-See?

Yes, the promenade along Phoenix-See features various leisure opportunities, including restaurants and cafes. A notable option is the "Fénix" restaurant in the southern harbor district, which offers an outdoor terrace along the promenade, perfect for enjoying a meal or drink with lake views.

When is the best time of year to visit Phoenix-See?

Phoenix-See is enjoyable year-round, but it can get quite crowded, especially during summer months and on weekends with good weather. For a more relaxed experience, visiting on normal working days or during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) might be preferable. The modern houses around the lake offer interesting reflections on the water, particularly at night.

How can I get to Phoenix-See by public transport or car?

Phoenix-See is located in Dortmund, Germany, and is well-integrated into the city's infrastructure. It is accessible by public transport, with various bus and tram connections leading to the Hörde district. For those traveling by car, parking facilities are available in the vicinity, though it can be busy during peak times.

What do visitors enjoy most about Phoenix-See?

Visitors frequently praise Phoenix-See as a beautiful destination and an outstanding example of urban transformation. They appreciate the scenic lake, the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling, and the variety of restaurants and cafes along the promenade. Many find it a great place to relax and discover something new, despite it sometimes being crowded on sunny days.

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