Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia
Ruhr Region
Bottrop

Gladbeck

Top 20 Lakes around Gladbeck

Best lakes around Gladbeck are found within the broader Ruhr area, a region in Germany known for its industrial heritage and subsequent transformation into green spaces and water bodies. While Gladbeck itself does not feature large natural lakes, its proximity to cities like Essen provides access to significant reservoirs. These water bodies, often formed by damming the Ruhr River, offer diverse recreational opportunities. The landscape around these lakes typically includes developed paths for walking and cycling, alongside natural areas.

Best lakes around Gladbeck

  • The most popular lakes is Pfingstsee, a lake that formed due to mining subsidence, creating new biotopes. It offers a break spot with tables and benches along a route through the biotope.
  • Another must-see spot is Niederfeld Lake, a lake with a well-maintained bike path that leads into the city center of Essen. The area around the lake has been redeveloped, offering a route with multiple viewpoints.
  • Visitors also love Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath, a lake with trails through the surrounding forest. Paths invite visitors to bypass the lake, which can be busy on weekends.
  • Gladbeck is known for both natural and man-made lakes, including reservoirs and those formed by historical mining activities. These water bodies offer a variety of landscapes, from redeveloped urban areas to more natural forest settings.
  • The lakes around Gladbeck are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4000 upvotes and over 800 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

Niederfeld Lake

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

A great route with a great surface. Leads directly from the south into the city center of Essen. Lots of water along the way - Niederfeldsee, Kruppseee - and the Cafe Radmosphäre. My top route in Essen.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Pfingstsee

Highlight • Lake

We feel a special connection to some places. But what does that actually mean? And how does such a relationship differ from one with a person?

Wheel of Fortune Exercise: Inner Developmental Goals 3 - RELATIONSHIP

As humans, we are born in need of help. Other living beings are capable of survival from birth; we depend on other people to feed us or protect us from cold and heat. And we organize the world so that it benefits and protects us. The fact that we are social, intelligent, and adaptable beings is our recipe for success.

Living together is (not) a stroke of luck. Look for examples from your own life where this coexistence works well. And consider how the attitudes and feelings below contribute to this.

(1) Appreciation
Approach others and the world with a fundamental sense of appreciation, gratitude, and joy.
(2) Connectedness
A strong sense of being connected to or part of a larger whole, such as a community, humanity, or a global ecosystem.
(3) Humility
Being able to act in accordance with the needs of the situation without concern for one's own importance.
(4) Empathy and Compassion
The ability to treat others, oneself, and nature with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and to cope with the associated suffering.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

The path along the canal is highly recommended. A great view of the Sorcerer's Apprentice is guaranteed.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Heidhof Experience Center

Highlight • Rest Area

Heidhof with opposite, playground. A meeting place for big u. small. Here you find
WC, kiosk and on request, barbecue cabins for rent. An autumn u. Christmas Market
are also on offer, as well as a roast or firewood for the winter.
Please googling on the internet

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Pfingstsee (Whitsun Lake)

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Also this lake is owed to the mining. The seams in the subsurface can be thought of slowly and there are always such depressions. It's just good that nature is stronger than humans. Here a little stream meandered a few years ago.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Gladbeck.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Gladbeck

Healthy cycling on Germany’s Emscher River

Cycling around Gladbeck

Hiking around Gladbeck

Running Trails around Gladbeck

MTB Trails around Gladbeck

Road Cycling Routes around Gladbeck

Gravel biking around Gladbeck

Other adventures around Gladbeck

Healthy cycling on Germany’s Emscher River

Cycling Collection by

KNAPPSCHAFT

Tips from the Community

KNAPPSCHAFT
April 16, 2025, Pfingstsee

We feel a special connection to some places. But what does that actually mean? And how does such a relationship differ from one with a person? Wheel of Fortune Exercise: Inner Developmental Goals 3 - RELATIONSHIP As humans, we are born in need of help. Other living beings are capable of survival from birth; we depend on other people to feed us or protect us from cold and heat. And we organize the world so that it benefits and protects us. The fact that we are social, intelligent, and adaptable beings is our recipe for success. Living together is (not) a stroke of luck. Look for examples from your own life where this coexistence works well. And consider how the attitudes and feelings below contribute to this. (1) Appreciation Approach others and the world with a fundamental sense of appreciation, gratitude, and joy. (2) Connectedness A strong sense of being connected to or part of a larger whole, such as a community, humanity, or a global ecosystem. (3) Humility Being able to act in accordance with the needs of the situation without concern for one's own importance. (4) Empathy and Compassion The ability to treat others, oneself, and nature with kindness, empathy, and compassion, and to cope with the associated suffering.

Translated by Google

3

1

_windzerzaust
September 16, 2022, Pfingstsee

The visit is definitely worth it, the trees that protrude from the water can become a beautiful photo highlight in the dark

Translated by Google

9

0

Chalien
May 21, 2022, Pfingstsee

Beautiful special piece of water, certainly nice to see once.

Translated by Google

8

0

Thorsten
April 28, 2022, Niederfeldsee

The Ruhr Expressway, RS1 for short, is a 115-kilometer expressway from Moers to Hamm, which is mostly in the planning stage. So far, two sections with a total length of around 15 kilometers have been completed. The longer of these is a 12.5-kilometer section between Mülheim an der Ruhr and Essen. This route is also known as the "Rhenish Railway" because it runs on a part of the former railway line from Osterath to Dortmund South of the Rhenish Railway Company.

Translated by Google

9

0

You can watch birds if you like or have a snack on the seating

Translated by Google

8

0

Sigi Bruns
March 6, 2022, Pfingstsee

Dead trees standing in the water looks beautiful

Translated by Google

8

0

Anja 🏡
August 10, 2021, Niederfeldsee

What a lovely place.

Translated by Google

12

2

The path along the canal is highly recommended. A great view of the Sorcerer's Apprentice is guaranteed.

Translated by Google

16

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular lakes for recreation near Gladbeck?

While Gladbeck itself doesn't have large natural lakes, residents often visit nearby reservoirs in the broader Ruhr area. Popular choices include Pfingstsee, known for its unique biotope formed by mining subsidence, and Niederfeld Lake, which offers a well-maintained bike path leading into Essen city center. Lake Baldeney and Lake Kettwig in Essen are also highly favored for water sports and scenic paths.

Are there family-friendly lakes around Gladbeck?

Yes, several lakes in the region are suitable for families. Pfingstsee is considered family-friendly, offering a break spot with tables and benches. The Heidhof Experience Center, located near a lake, is a popular family destination with a playground, forest school, and kiosk. Lake Baldeney and Lake Kettwig also provide ample space for family activities like cycling and picnicking.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

The lakes around Gladbeck offer diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along well-maintained paths, such as the one at Niederfeld Lake, or explore trails through forests surrounding lakes like Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath. Water sports like sailing, canoeing, and rowing are popular on larger reservoirs like Lake Baldeney. For more structured activities, you can find numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails in the wider Gladbeck area.

Are there good hiking or walking trails around the lakes?

Absolutely. Many lakes feature pleasant walking and cycling paths. For instance, Heidesee in the Kirchhellen Heath has trails through its surrounding forest. Lake Baldeney and Lake Kettwig in Essen are well-known for their scenic walking and cycling paths along the shores. You can also find specific running trails that often incorporate lake views or nearby green spaces.

What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?

The lakes in the region offer a mix of natural and redeveloped landscapes. At Pfingstsee, you can observe unique biotopes formed by mining subsidence. Lakes like Heidesee are nestled within forests, providing a natural setting. The larger reservoirs like Lake Baldeney and Lake Kettwig feature expansive water bodies, often with surrounding green areas and viewpoints. The Ruhr area's transformation from industrial to green spaces is evident in these diverse environments.

Are there cafes or places to eat near the lakes?

Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Heidhof Experience Center, near a lake, has a kiosk and is a popular rest area for hikers and cyclists. Around larger lakes like Lake Baldeney, there are several restaurants and beer gardens, making them ideal for a day out. Niederfeld Lake also has the Cafe Radmosphäre nearby.

What is the historical significance of some of these lakes?

Many lakes in the Ruhr area, including those accessible from Gladbeck, have a fascinating history tied to the region's industrial past. For example, Lake Baldeney was created between 1931 and 1933 by unemployed coal miners. Other lakes, like Pfingstsee, formed due to mining subsidence, creating new biotopes as a result of historical mining activities.

Are the paths around the lakes suitable for cycling?

Yes, many lake areas are excellent for cycling. Niederfeld Lake, for instance, boasts a well-maintained bike path that connects directly to Essen's city center. The Rhine-Herne Canal Path, which passes near some lake areas, is also highly recommended for cycling. You can find numerous road cycling routes and even MTB trails that incorporate these scenic water bodies.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes near Gladbeck?

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and the scenic beauty. The well-maintained paths for walking and cycling, the chance to engage in water sports, and the peaceful natural settings are frequently highlighted. The transformation of former industrial areas into green spaces and water bodies also offers unique landscapes and viewpoints, making these lakes popular for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Are there any dog-friendly lakes in the area?

Yes, Pfingstsee is noted as dog-friendly, making it a good option for walks with your canine companion. Generally, many of the walking and cycling paths around the larger lakes in the Ruhr area are suitable for dogs, though it's always advisable to keep them on a leash and be mindful of other visitors.

When is the best time to visit the lakes around Gladbeck?

The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, cycling, and enjoying the green landscapes. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks, while winter can provide serene, quiet scenery, though some facilities might have reduced hours. Weekends can be busy, especially at popular spots like Heidesee, so consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.

Most popular routes around Gladbeck

Cycling around Gladbeck

Most popular attractions around Gladbeck

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

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

Naturschutzgebiet Kirchheller HeideHeidesee

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Bottrop

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy