Top 20 Lakes around Willingen (Upland)
Best lakes around Willingen (Upland) offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features several reservoirs and smaller lakes, providing settings for water sports, hiking, and nature observation. These bodies of water are often surrounded by forests and valleys, contributing to the area's appeal for outdoor activities. The geography includes both large reservoirs and tranquil smaller lakes, each with distinct characteristics.
Best lakes around Willingen (Upland)
- The most popular lakes is View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm, a viewpoint that offers impressions of the storage pool used for artificial snow on the ski slopes. This reservoir provides unique views and is encircled by paths.
- Another must-see spot is Diemelsee Dam, a man-made monument. This approximately 42-meter-high dam, completed in 1924, is a historical monument and offers impressive views of the Diemelsee.
- Visitors also love Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake), a small drinking water dam. This lake is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is encircled by a hiking trail.
- Willingen (Upland) is known for reservoirs, natural lakes, and smaller ponds. The area offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from large bodies of water like Diemelsee to smaller, more secluded spots.
- The lakes around Willingen (Upland) are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3900 upvotes and over 1700 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Diemelsee Dam
Highlight • Monument
The approximately 42-meter-high dam, completed in 1924, and the power plant building are now listed as historical monuments. The view of the dam is impressive.
The dam is also considered one of the Sauerland's spiritual places. It symbolizes the theme of "power and strength."
Translated by Google •
Tip by
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
Diemel Reservoir
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Panorama Trail Diemelsteig – Views of Diemelsee
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Bodensee (Helle Valley)
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Willingen (Upland).
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Willingen (Upland)
A fantastic adventure in Germany's Sauerland — bikepacking with a dog
Hiking the Uplandsteig in North Hesse – From lively to lonely
Diemelradweg cycling route – A long weekend
Multi-day hikes in the Sauerland – eight trails, many unforgettable moments
One Way Wanderlust: hiking in the Sauerland by public transport
#GoFurther – discover the views of Germany!
Rothaarsteig trail – long-distance hiking in the heart of Germany
Hiking in Gemany’s Sauerland – the most beautiful multi–day Tours
Hiking the Briloner Kammweg in Sauerland – forests and stone giants
Lowest to Highest (L2H) in Germany
Other adventures around Willingen (Upland)
Tips from the Community
From the Diemelsteig you will have wonderful views of the Diemelsee. But be careful: the viewpoints are not always directly on the path, but it is always worth taking the small detour.
6
0
There are great views from the impressive building.
9
0
The Diemelsteig runs on a section of the panorama trail. Nice to walk, it overcomes a few meters in altitude and rewards the hiker with beautiful views and a springy forest floor!
5
1
Lake Constance is fed by the light. Actually, the spelling Boden See is the correct one.
2
0
Lake Constance on the edge of the gorge and bridge path can be completely bypassed and invites you to take a break here and there with seating.
3
0
Lake Constance is located along the Gorge and Bridge Trail and can be completely bypassed.
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What water activities are available at the lakes near Willingen (Upland)?
The Diemelsee is a prime location for water sports. You can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at its lidos, especially during warmer months. Pedal boats, electric boats, and rowing boats are available for rent, and it's also popular for sailing, surfing, and stand-up paddling. Fishing is also a common activity due to its diverse fish population.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer excellent hiking. The Diemelsee is surrounded by the Diemelsee Nature Park, with trails like the Panorama Trail Diemelsteig offering wonderful views. The Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake) also has a tranquil hiking trail encircling it, known as the 'Schmahlatal-Rundweg'. For more hiking options, explore the Easy hikes around Willingen (Upland) or Mountain Hikes around Willingen (Upland) guides.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
The Diemelsee is very family-friendly, offering amenities like a large water slide, play equipment, and a sandpit at its lidos. The Bodensee (Helle Valley) is a small, peaceful spot with seating, ideal for a rest during a family hike. The Ettelsberg reservoir also has well-developed paths around it, suitable for leisurely family strolls.
Can I go cycling around the lakes?
Absolutely. The Diemelsee offers a leisurely cycling tour around the lake via the Diemelsteig trail, providing access to various leisure facilities and sights. For more extensive cycling, consider the MTB Trails around Willingen (Upland) guide, which includes routes like the 'Diemelsee Tour'.
Are there any historical landmarks associated with the lakes?
Yes, the impressive Diemelsee Dam is a significant historical monument. Completed in 1924, this approximately 42-meter-high structure symbolizes 'power and strength' within the Sauerland region and offers impressive views of the Diemelsee.
What is the Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake) known for?
The Schmalah Reservoir (Silver Lake), also known as Silbersee, is a smaller drinking water dam appreciated for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful location. It's designated as one of the 'Sauerland-Seelenorte' (soul places) and is popular for walking, with a hiking trail encircling the lake.
Is there a lake specifically for diving?
Yes, the Messinghausener See, also known as 'See im Berg' (Lake in the Mountain), is a unique destination primarily for experienced divers. This deep lake (up to 45 meters) formed in a former quarry, offers underwater exploration. Diving is managed by Tauchcenter Bielefeld and is permitted on weekends and public holidays. It is not suitable for swimming due to its cold temperatures and potential rockfall danger.
Can I swim in all the lakes around Willingen (Upland)?
No, swimming is not permitted in all lakes. While the Diemelsee offers excellent water quality for swimming at its lidos, swimming is prohibited in the Ettelsberg reservoir (which is a storage pool for artificial snow) and the Messinghausener See (due to its nature as a former quarry and cold temperatures).
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The lakes are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. The Diemelsee is surrounded by the Diemelsee Nature Park, featuring forests, wild meadow valleys, and scenic views. The lake itself has a unique V-shape formed by the confluence of the Diemel and Itter rivers. The Panorama Trail Diemelsteig offers views along rock faces and over the lake.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the lakes?
Yes, several spots provide great views. The Diemelsee Dam offers impressive views of the Diemelsee. The Panorama Trail Diemelsteig is specifically designed to offer wonderful views of the Diemelsee, often requiring small detours to reach the best vantage points. Additionally, the View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm provides unique impressions of the storage pool and surrounding terrain.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. The warm summer months are ideal for swimming and water sports at the Diemelsee. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage. Even in winter, paths around the Ettelsberg reservoir are accessible, as it's used for artificial snow production, ensuring it doesn't freeze over.
Are the hiking trails around the lakes suitable for beginners?
Many trails around the lakes cater to various fitness levels. While some paths, like parts of the Panorama Trail Diemelsteig, recommend sturdy shoes and a certain degree of resilience, there are also easier options. The paths around the Ettelsberg reservoir are well-developed and generally easy. For more beginner-friendly options, consult the Easy hikes around Willingen (Upland) guide.
Most popular routes around Willingen (Upland)
Most popular attractions around Willingen (Upland)
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Willingen (Upland)? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
