Top 20 Lakes around Menden
Best lakes around Menden are primarily artificial reservoirs in the Sauerland region, serving as drinking water supplies and popular leisure areas. Menden (Sauerland) itself is ideally situated near these notable bodies of water, offering diverse recreational opportunities. These lakes are embedded in natural settings like the Homert Nature Park and Arnsberg Forest Nature Park. The region provides a blend of natural beauty and developed tourist infrastructure for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Menden
- The most popular lakes is View of the Blue Lagoon in the Asbeck Quarry, a viewpoint that offers views of an 80-meter deep quarry lake with intensely colored water. Its water is used in nearby limestone works, and the location provides panoramic views after an ascent.
- Another must-see spot is Sorpe Dam, a man-made monument that forms part of the Sorpesee, a significant leisure and recreation area in the Sauerland. This dam was a major construction project in Europe from 1926 to 1935, and the lake is known for its beautiful forest landscape.
- Visitors also love Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden, a lake located directly in Menden with a unique atmosphere and historical past. It features tree sculptures by artist Mile Prerad and a population of turtles, making it a popular local destination.
- Menden (Sauerland) is known for large reservoirs, smaller bathing lakes, and unique local ponds. These bodies of water offer a variety of experiences, from extensive water sports to quiet relaxation and historical exploration.
- The lakes around Menden are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 2100 upvotes and more than 540 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
Sorpesee Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Sorpe Dam
Highlight • Monument
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Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden
Highlight • Lake
Around the witch's pond are tree sculptures, which look at first distant look like Indian pylons. In fact, they are miraculous sculptures by the Serbian artist Mile Prerad.
Directly on the shore is a very large and fully covered barbecue hut (for up to 60 people), which can be rented on Tel: 02373 - 903202.
ruhr-guide.de/freizeit/seen-und-fluesse/hexenteich-menden/22,0,0.html
@ Marc: Maybe a little bit on the wording regarding "witches" pay attention.
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Sorpesee Promenade
Highlight • Trail
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View of the Blue Lagoon in the Asbeck Quarry
Highlight • Viewpoint
The torture up the mountain has paid off.
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Tips from the Community
The Sorpesee, the water has a lot to offer in terms of landscape, the reservoir is embedded in a beautiful forest landscape.
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With a depth of over 70 meters, the Sorpesee is the deepest reservoir in the Ruhr Association and is also one of the largest reservoirs in the Sauerland. A popular leisure and recreation area.
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The Sorpesee has the third largest dam wall of all Sauerland reservoirs. From here you have a great view over the lake. There are many benches for long breaks. The cycle path leads over the wall around the reservoir and is in excellent condition. Sometimes it is shared by skaters and hikers. Partly the route leads through very beautiful forest sections.
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The water from the lake is used to wash the stones in the nearby Hönnetal limestone works. The washed-out sediments are washed back into the lake and settle there. The lake in the quarry owes its name to the intense color of the water: The Blue Lagoon. It is 80 meters deep and has a water temperature of 8 degrees.
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Easy parking, nice interesting path with a good view of the limestone quarry. The observation tower is also worthwhile. Here you can see more than 40 km in good visibility. A board on the strand helps for orientation.
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The popular local recreation area around the picturesque Hexenteich invites you to take relaxing walks and adventurous hikes. In an idyllic atmosphere you can unwind and enjoy nature. Those who are particularly attentive on their tour around the pond will not only discover the tall wooden sculptures, the romantic hearts, but with a little luck even red-eared turtles.
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from the dam you have a beautiful view of the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of lakes can I find near Menden (Sauerland)?
The lakes around Menden are primarily artificial reservoirs in the Sauerland region, which serve as both drinking water supplies and popular leisure areas. You'll find large, well-developed reservoirs like Sorpesee and Möhnesee, smaller bathing lakes such as Esmecke-Stausee, and unique local ponds like the Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden.
What water sports and activities are available at the lakes?
Many lakes offer extensive water sports. At Sorpesee, you can enjoy diving, rowing, sailing, surfing, and rent canoes, pedal boats, or SUP boards. Möhnesee also provides a wide range of water sports and has three lidos for swimming. The Esmecke-Stausee is a popular bathing lake with consistently warm water.
Are there good hiking and cycling opportunities around the lakes?
Yes, the region offers numerous trails. Around Möhnesee, there are five signposted circular cycling routes and many hiking trails through the Arnsberg Forest. Sorpesee features easy cycling routes along its shores, including the 'Randweg'. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes and cycling tours around Menden.
Which lakes are best for families with children?
Sorpesee is very family-friendly, with adventure trails, promenades, and playgrounds, such as those found along the Sorpesee Promenade. Möhnesee offers three lidos for swimming, and the Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden, has a large, covered barbecue hut that can be rented for gatherings.
What unique natural features or viewpoints can I find?
The View of the Blue Lagoon in the Asbeck Quarry offers panoramic views of an 80-meter deep quarry lake with intensely colored water. Möhnesee features a 650-meter long, 40-meter high dam that is over 100 years old, and the Möhnesee Tower provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Arnsberg Forest.
Are there any historical sites associated with the lakes?
The Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden, has a unique atmosphere and a historical, albeit dark, past associated with witch hunts. The Sorpe Dam is a significant man-made monument, representing a major construction project in Europe from 1926 to 1935.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes near Menden?
The lakes are popular year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the promenades and outdoor activities. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for hiking, while winter can provide a serene landscape, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, well-developed lakes like Sorpesee and Möhnesee have promenades with refreshment stops, cafes, and restaurants. Sorpesee even offers unique accommodation options like tree houses. You'll find various options for dining and lodging in the towns surrounding these popular lakes.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car?
The lakes are generally well-connected. While Menden itself doesn't host large natural lakes, it's ideally situated near several notable reservoirs. Sorpesee, Möhnesee, and Seilersee are easily accessible by car, with parking facilities available. Public transport options may vary, so it's advisable to check local schedules for specific routes.
What makes the Seilersee a popular local recreation area?
The Seilersee, located in Iserlohn, is a popular local recreation area due to its surrounding greenery and forests. It features a 1.6 km long hiking trail around it and offers various nearby leisure options, including an ice rink, a sports and brine pool, tennis courts, and a mini-golf course.
Can I fish in the lakes around Menden?
Fishing is permitted at several lakes. Sorpesee is noted as a great spot for fishing. At Esmecke-Stausee, fishing is permitted for guests of the Eslohe vacation region. Specific permits and regulations may apply, so it's recommended to check with local authorities or tourism offices before planning a fishing trip.
What is the Hennesee known for?
The Hennesee, near Meschede, is a scenic reservoir known for its blend of nature, activities, and culture. It offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, swimming, and boating, including excursions on the 'white fleet'. The Henne-Boulevard and 'Himmelstreppe' provide pleasant walks connecting the lake to Meschede town center.
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