Großer Bischofsweiher
Großer Bischofsweiher
Top 9 Lakes around Großer Bischofsweiher
Best lakes around Großer Bischofsweiher, also known as Dechsendorfer Weiher, is a significant body of water and a prominent recreational area near Erlangen, Bavaria. This lake covers an area of 35 to 37 hectares with a shoreline of 3.8 kilometers. It is the largest of approximately 60 historic carp ponds in the region, with medieval origins. The area is designated as a landscape protection area and includes a European bird sanctuary, particularly the northern shores and the adjacent Kleiner Bischofsweiher.
…Last updated: May 4, 2026
Dechsendorfer Pond
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Great Bishop's Pond
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Great Bishop's Pond
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Great Bishop's Pond North Shore
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Dechsendorfer Weiher
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The Dechsendorfer Weiher (Großer Bischofsweiher) and the almost equally large Kleiner Bischofsweiher were created in the Middle Ages by the Bamberg bishops as carp ponds. Due to the large water surfaces and the immediate surroundings, both ponds are of great importance for species and biotope protection, especially for water birds. The Dechsendorfer Weiher are a popular destination for those seeking local recreation due to their proximity and closeness to nature. The pond is used as a bathing pond; however, use was restricted by the algae problem. The bathing ban is also announced locally and by clearly visible signs or signs at the bathing area. The fields to the west of the ponds are in the Sandachse Franken nature conservation project and the forest areas of the Markwald directly adjacent to the east are protected forest. The entire area is a landscape conservation area. The Dechsendorfer Weiher was previously flowed through by the Röttenbach. This has now been created as a new Röttenbach over a length of 1.6 km from the intermediate dam inlet area to the downstream area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher. A near-natural watercourse is intended to improve the previously moderate water structure and create new habitats for the ecological diversity of nature. The lack of passability of the Röttenbach was restored. In the new Röttenbach, nutrients, sediments and also fish from the catchment area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher can be diverted around it into the downstream area of the pond. The pond is no longer in the main tributary but in the bypass and can therefore be managed in terms of the quality and quantity of the incoming water. With the targeted planting of aquatic plants, the pond was returned to a plant-dominated state. [ Source: https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/gewaesserschutz-dechsendorfer-weiher ]
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That means, in summer, a lot of grey geese that poop all over the meadow (actually a lawn with a bathing area)
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There is everything you need at the lake and also a playground
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The “Dechsi” always works. Summer and winter.
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Popular local recreation area with barbecue areas and swimming areas. In the main area there is a kiosk and pedal boat rental. Nice circular route around the lake.
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Beautiful lake for rest, hiking, BBQ and camping
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The Großer Bischofsweiher, also known as the Dechsendorfer Weiher, is located in the north of the Dechsendorf district of Erlangen. The 0.35 square kilometer pond is part of a local recreation area and the largest of a whole chain of around 60 carp ponds. The shore length of the lake is 3.8 kilometers. The large bishop's pond and the landscape areas bordering it to the south and west are designated as the Dechsendorfer Weihergebiet landscape protection area with a size of 170 hectares.[13] The neighboring Kleiner Bischofsweiher and the northern shore zones of the Großer Bischofsweiher have been reported to the EU Commission as a European bird sanctuary in Aischgrund.[14] Many different waterfowl are native to the entire landscape, including some rare and exotic species. These include coot, moorhen, mallard, tufted duck, pochard, mandarin duck, wood duck, greylag goose, Egyptian goose, mute swan, black swan, great crested grebe, bittern and night heron. In winter, goosanders, and occasionally smews and medium-sized mergansers, are guests. Source: Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main recreational activities available at Großer Bischofsweiher?
Großer Bischofsweiher, also known as Dechsendorfer Weiher, is a popular recreational hub. You can enjoy swimming at the natural bathing beach, various water sports like pedal boating, rowing, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. There's also a well-maintained circular path for walking or cycling, and ample space for picnicking and grilling. In winter, when water levels are lowered, it's used for ice skating and curling.
Are there family-friendly options around Großer Bischofsweiher?
Yes, Großer Bischofsweiher is very family-friendly. There are spacious sunbathing lawns, a playground for children, and accessible paths suitable for strollers. Many highlights, such as Dechsendorfer Pond and Dechsendorfer Weiher, are noted for their family-friendly facilities and atmosphere.
What kind of trails and paths are available for walking or cycling?
A well-maintained circular path, approximately 4 kilometers long (or 7 km for a larger loop), encircles Großer Bischofsweiher. This path is suitable for walking, cycling, and is largely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. You can find various easy hiking and cycling routes in the area, such as those listed in the Easy hikes around Großer Bischofsweiher and Cycling around Großer Bischofsweiher guides.
Can I swim in Großer Bischofsweiher?
Yes, Großer Bischofsweiher features a natural bathing beach (Naturbadestrand) and is a popular spot for swimming in the summer. However, it's worth noting that bathing restrictions have occurred in the past due to algae issues, so it's advisable to check local conditions.
What is the historical significance of Großer Bischofsweiher?
Großer Bischofsweiher has a medieval origin, created as a carp pond by the Bamberg bishops. Its name, 'Great Bishop's Pond,' comes from the time around 1504 when the lake was sold by the Baiersdorf bailiff to the Bishop of Bamberg, as mentioned at the Great Bishop's Pond North Shore.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching around the lake?
Absolutely. The lake and its surrounding landscape are designated as a landscape protection area and a European bird sanctuary. This makes it an excellent spot for birdwatching, as it's home to a diverse array of waterfowl, including rare and exotic species. Reeds where waterfowl nest can be found in many places around the lake.
What facilities are available for visitors at Großer Bischofsweiher?
Visitors can find a range of facilities, including a campsite directly on the lake's shore for longer stays, kiosks offering food and drinks, and public grilling facilities available year-round. There are also boat rentals for water sports and a playground for children.
What do visitors enjoy most about Großer Bischofsweiher?
Visitors particularly appreciate the spacious sunbathing lawns for relaxation, the variety of water sports, and the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling. The area is also loved for its family-friendly amenities, including playgrounds and accessible routes, making it an ideal spot for a day out or a longer stay.
Are there any cultural events held at Großer Bischofsweiher?
Yes, the large meadow by Großer Bischofsweiher occasionally hosts cultural events, such as "Klassik am See" concerts, offering a unique cultural experience in a natural setting.
Can I find places to eat or stay near Großer Bischofsweiher?
Yes, there are kiosks around the lake offering food and drinks. Additionally, a campsite is located directly on the lake's shore for overnight stays. For more dining options, the nearby area of Erlangen-Dechsendorf offers various cafes and restaurants.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Großer Bischofsweiher?
The area offers a variety of cycling routes, from easy loops around the lake to more challenging gravel biking trails. You can explore options like the "Kulisse Erlangen – Giesbeth Pond loop" or the "Embankment at Dechsendorfer Weiher – Small Bishop's Pond loop." For more details, check out the Cycling around Großer Bischofsweiher and Gravel biking around Großer Bischofsweiher guides.
Is Großer Bischofsweiher accessible for people with disabilities or strollers?
Yes, the circular path around Großer Bischofsweiher is largely accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making it a welcoming destination for visitors with varying mobility needs.
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