Top 20 Lakes around Frauenau
Lakes around Frauenau, situated in the Bavarian Forest, offer diverse natural and historical features. The region is characterized by its dense forests and a variety of water bodies, from natural cirque lakes to artificial reservoirs. These lakes serve purposes ranging from historical timber rafting to modern drinking water supply. Visitors can explore a landscape that combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Best lakes around Frauenau
- The most popular lakes is Martinsklause Reservoir, a lake and historical site that is one of the best-preserved Klausen in the Bavarian Forest National Park. This artificial reservoir was created in the 19th century for timber rafting and is now preserved as a cultural monument.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Rachel, a lake and natural monument. It is one of three Karseen in the Bavarian Forest, located in the northern part of Sankt Oswald-Riedlhütte. The lake and its surrounding area were declared a nature reserve in 1918.
- Visitors also love Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir, a lake and man-made monument. This dam serves as flood protection, drinking water storage, and energy generation. It offers recreational opportunities such as a circular trail around the dam.
- Frauenau is known for natural cirque lakes, historical timber rafting reservoirs, and modern drinking water dams. The variety of lakes provides opportunities for hiking, relaxation, and exploring both natural and man-made structures.
- The lakes around Frauenau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2000 upvotes and over 1500 photos shared across 9 highlights.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Martinsklause Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Rachel
Highlight • Lake
Rachelsee
Rachelsee, top view.JPG
Geographical location
in the Bavarian Forest
outflow
Seebach → Ilz
dates
coordinates
48 ° 58 '31 "N, 13 ° 24' 7" E
Rachel Lake (Bavaria)
Rachelsee
Altitude above sea level
1070.5 m
area
5.7 ha
length
350 m
width
205 m
volume
180,000 m³
Maximum depth
13.2 m
Middle deep
3.2 m
PH value
5.0
catchment area
58 ha
particularities
no fish or amphibians
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Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Großarmschlag Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Frauenau
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Tips from the Community
Small, picturesque reservoir. It reminds me a lot of the Harz Mountains.🫶
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A cozy beer garden with a view over the pond, a rustic dining room and "Beer from Stoa" make the Schwellhäusl Trifterklause the perfect place to stop. Delicious food 🥘👍
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A very beautiful lake that was once created for the timber drift and renovated as a monument. Here again one of the well-made and easy-to-understand information boards in the national park on this very topic.
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Well suited for a rest on the hike. There are benches on the bank and there is also enough space for a picnic.
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A quiet corner of nature, where you can relax and linger.
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The Martinsklause is a timber rafting hermitage in the Bavarian Forest in the district of Freyung-Grafenau. The hermitage is located in the Bavarian Forest National Park in the unincorporated area of Waldhäuserwald about 2 km west of the Lusen mountain and about 1 km northeast of the village of Waldhäuser at an altitude of 974 m. The water surface is about 3,400 square meters. It is a water dam built for timber rafting in 1835 and was renovated by the National Park Administration in 1976/1977. The headwaters of the Kleine Ohe collect in the Martinsklause.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique natural lakes to visit near Frauenau?
One of the most unique natural lakes is Lake Rachel. It's one of three cirque lakes (Karseen) in the Bavarian Forest and has been a nature reserve since 1918. You can enjoy beautiful views, especially from the Rachel chapel, and find benches for relaxation during hikes.
Are there any historical sites related to lakes in the Frauenau area?
Yes, the Martinsklause Reservoir is an artificial reservoir with significant historical value. It's considered one of the best-preserved 'Klausen' (dams for timber rafting) in the Bavarian Forest National Park, built in the 19th century to transport wood downriver. Today, it's preserved as a cultural monument.
What recreational activities can I do at the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir?
The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir offers a pleasant circular trail that takes approximately 1.5 hours to complete. It provides scenic views and is an easy tour, often enjoyed in sunshine. You can also take a break at the Gutsgasthof Oberfrauenau, which features a beer garden.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Frauenau?
Absolutely. The Martinsklause Reservoir is accessible via hiking trails, including a family-friendly climb from Fredenbrücke. The circular trail around the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir is also considered an easy, family-friendly option. Additionally, the Ebenreuther See, while not a highlight, offers a quiet environment and a large sunbathing lawn for swimmers, making it suitable for families.
Where can I find a tranquil spot with scenic views near Frauenau?
The Großarmschlag Reservoir is an idyllic spot characterized by dense surrounding forests, offering excellent photo opportunities and a tranquil setting for those seeking scenic beauty and quiet reflection.
What kind of hiking opportunities are available around the lakes?
The region offers diverse hiking opportunities. You can hike around Lake Rachel, potentially including a climb to the Rachel mountain for panoramic views. The Martinsklause Reservoir is also accessible via hiking trails. For more options, explore the Mountain Hikes around Frauenau guide, which includes routes like the 'Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir – Großer Rachel Summit loop'.
Are there any specific trails suitable for mountain biking near the lakes?
Yes, there are several mountain biking trails in the vicinity. For example, the MTB Trails around Frauenau guide features routes such as the 'Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir – Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir loop from Frauenau', which is an easy 16.7 km ride.
Can I find places to eat or relax near the lakes?
Yes, the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl is an idyllic inn with a beer garden located in the middle of the forest, offering a cozy spot to eat and relax. It's a fantastically located refreshment stop with a rustic dining room and a view over a pond.
Is the Frauenau Dam important for the region?
Yes, the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir, also known as Trinkwassertalsperre Frauenau, is crucial for securing the drinking water supply for a significant portion of Lower Bavaria. It also serves as flood protection and contributes to energy generation. You can find more details about its construction and purpose on Wikipedia.
Are there any lakes accessible for people with mobility challenges?
The Großarmschlag Reservoir is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering a beautiful natural setting that can be enjoyed by visitors with mobility challenges.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Frauenau?
The lakes around Frauenau offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer is ideal for recreational activities and enjoying the sunbathing lawns at lakes like Ebenreuther See. Even in winter, the landscape can be picturesque, though some trails might be less accessible.
Can I go swimming in any of the lakes near Frauenau?
While specific swimming regulations vary, the Ebenreuther See, located near Frauenau, is known for offering a quiet environment and a large sunbathing lawn for swimmers. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local signage or regulations regarding swimming.
Are there running trails near the lakes?
Yes, the area provides good options for runners. The Running Trails around Frauenau guide includes routes such as the 'Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir – Ostend drinking water reservoir loop from Frauenau', which is a moderate 13.6 km run.
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