Top 20 Lakes around Schleiz
Best lakes around Schleiz are centered around the Bleilochtalsperre, often called the "Thuringian Sea," which is Germany's largest reservoir by volume. This area features a fjord-like landscape with extensive mixed forests. It offers numerous opportunities for water sports, hiking, and biking. The region combines natural beauty with significant recreational facilities.
Best lakes around Schleiz
- The most popular lakes is Plothen Ponds, a lake known for its unique pond landscape in Thuringia. Visitors can swim in some ponds, such as…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Plothen Ponds
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you can swim in some ponds (e.g. Hausteich)
very nice for bird watching
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1000 Ponds Circular Trail
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Saale Tower
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Bleiloch Reservoir
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Bleiloch Dam
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Great bike path, part unpaved (gravel), most of it asphalted 👍🚵
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The dam was declared a historical landmark of engineering in Germany in 2016.
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A 🏃🏼♀️ detour to the dam is absolutely worthwhile 🤩.
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The Bleiloch Dam, the upper reservoir, has a storage area of 9.2 km² and, with its total storage capacity of 213 million m³, is one of the largest reservoirs in Germany.
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The lake is 28 km long and has a water volume of 215 million m³. The dam was built between 1926 and 1932 for flood protection and to generate energy. It is 205 meters long, 65 meters high and 47 meters wide at the base. It is located in the northernmost part between the Bleiberg mountains. The reservoir got its name from these mountains.
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Everything important about the Bleiloch Dam has already been reported by other Komootlers. When you see the size of the dam, as it has the largest capacity in Germany, you can understand why the dam is also called the Thuringian Sea.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes to visit around Schleiz?
The primary water bodies are the Bleiloch Reservoir, often called the "Thuringian Sea" and Germany's largest reservoir by volume, and the Plothen Ponds, known for their unique pond landscape.
What activities can I do at the Bleiloch Reservoir?
The Bleiloch Reservoir offers a wide range of activities including fishing, boating, surfing, sailing, and stand-up paddling. There are also extensive marked hiking and mountain biking trails around its fjord-like landscape. In summer, you can find many bathing options on free beaches or in natural pools.
Are there good hiking trails near the lakes around Schleiz?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking opportunities. For example, the 1000 Ponds Circular Trail provides a beautiful route through a charming lake landscape with different length options. You can also find many trails around the Bleiloch Reservoir. For more options, explore the Easy hikes around Schleiz guide.
What makes the Plothen Ponds unique?
The Plothen Ponds are unique for their extensive pond landscape, which is characteristic of Thuringia. They are excellent for bird watching, and visitors can swim in some of the ponds, such as Hausteich.
Are the lakes around Schleiz suitable for families?
Absolutely. The Bleiloch Reservoir is very family-friendly, offering bathing options and recreational facilities like adventure pools, a climbing park, and a summer toboggan run nearby. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail is also noted as family-friendly with well-signposted routes.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Bleiloch Reservoir?
For a magnificent panoramic view, visit the Saale Tower. This 43-meter-high tower offers a great vantage point after climbing 192 steps. The Bleiloch Dam itself also provides impressive views of the reservoir and its surroundings.
Can I cycle around the lakes?
Yes, the region around the Bleiloch Reservoir is excellent for cycling, with many beautiful bike paths running through the forest and along the shore. You can find more routes in the Cycling around Schleiz guide.
What is the significance of the Bleiloch Dam?
The Bleiloch Dam, built between 1926 and 1932, is a significant engineering landmark. It is 65 meters high and 205 meters long, damming 215 million cubic meters of water, making the Bleiloch Reservoir the largest in Germany by volume.
Are there options for water sports rentals?
Yes, for stand-up paddling (SUP), boards can be rented at Saalburg-Beach in Saalburg-Ebersdorf, where beginner courses are also offered. Other water sports like boating, surfing, and sailing are also popular on the Bleiloch Reservoir.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Schleiz?
Visitors highly appreciate the natural beauty, especially the fjord-like landscape of the Bleiloch Reservoir and the unique pond system of the Plothen Ponds. The extensive recreational opportunities, from water sports to hiking and cycling, are also a major draw, combining nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Can I go running near the lakes?
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find various routes, including moderate and easy options, in the Running Trails around Schleiz guide, many of which are close to the water bodies.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Schleiz?
The region is popular year-round, but the warmer months are ideal for water sports and swimming. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage changes. The area's extensive recreational facilities make it a good destination for families throughout the warmer seasons.
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