Best lakes in Nürnberger Land offer diverse recreational opportunities within a varied natural landscape. This district, located near Nuremberg, features several appealing lakes nestled in areas like the Hersbrucker Alb and the Reichswald. These bodies of water provide settings for various outdoor activities, from water sports to peaceful walks. The region's lakes are valued for their natural beauty and accessibility for local recreation.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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The lake is fed by the Happurger Bach and its left tributary, the Kainsbach. The Happurg pumped-storage power plant, which began operation in 1958 and is owned by Großkraftwerk Franken AG (later acquired by E.ON and now part of Uniper), used the lake as its lower reservoir. The associated upper reservoir is located on the Deckersberg. The lake's average size is approximately 55 hectares. The lake takes its name from the neighboring village of Happurg. It was built by the Nuremberg architect and Nuremberg Culture Prize winner Franz Reichel. As early as 1962, the upper reservoir drained through underground cavities and crevices into which the water from the upper reservoir seeped away. Following further seepage of the water supply, the power plant has been out of operation since January 2011. Renovation work was repeatedly postponed, and completion was initially planned for 2016. As early as 2013, the recommissioning was postponed to 2017 following the submission of the renovation report.
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Great lake with circular path and refreshment stop
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Beautiful circular walk around the lake
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Beautiful lake on the outskirts of Feucht near Nuremberg
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A very idyllic place to unwind. There are no restaurants nearby. If you want to take a break or have a picnic, you'll have to bring your own food.
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Small lake with good paths leading there
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Beautiful lake, ideal for walking around
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The lakes in Nürnberger Land offer a diverse range of activities. At Happurger See, you can enjoy water sports like sailing, surfing, stand-up paddling, and fishing, along with walking or cycling the 5-kilometer circular path. The adjacent Happurger Baggersee is ideal for swimming and bathing. Great Birch Lake is popular for swimming and sunbathing, while Wöhrder See in Nuremberg provides opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, sunbathing, picnicking, and boat rentals. Peaceful walks are also popular around Valznerweiher.
For swimming, the Happurger Baggersee is specifically designated and features shallow areas for children, along with facilities like a kiosk and showers. The Great Birch Lake is also a favored spot for swimming and sunbathing, though it's advised to avoid swallowing the water. Swimming is also common at Wöhrder See, but checking local advisories for water quality is recommended.
Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. The Happurger Baggersee is well-suited for families with its shallow swimming areas and facilities. Great Birch Lake is also a popular recreational area for families, known for its large sandy dune. Additionally, highlights like Ice Pond North Shore and Jägersee (Feucht) are noted as family-friendly spots by the komoot community.
Many lakes offer excellent walking opportunities. The Happurger See features a scenic 5-kilometer circular path, and the Happurg Reservoir Panorama Trail is a beautiful route. You can find easy hikes in the region, such as the 'Happurg Reservoir – View of Lake Happurg loop from Happurg', which is part of the Easy hikes in Nürnberger Land guide. The Wöhrder See also has extensive paths for walking and jogging, and peaceful walks are possible around Valznerweiher.
Yes, you can find dining options at some lakes. At Happurger See, the Café-Restaurant Seeterrassen offers lovely views. Wöhrder See features cafes with scenic views, such as Strandhaus Café and Gutmann am Dutzendteich. The historic Valznerweiher is notable for having a restaurant situated on an island, providing a unique dining experience.
Absolutely. The Wöhrder See is a vibrant ecosystem and serves as a sanctuary for various birds like swans and ducks, making it a good spot for nature observation. The Kleiner Birkensee is a protected landscape area, preserving specialized plant and animal species, though access to its shores is restricted to protect its natural environment. Many lakes are surrounded by forests, offering a natural setting.
The region offers several impressive viewpoints. The View of Happurger See from Hohler Fels provides magnificent views of the Happurg reservoir and surrounding area. Another great spot is the View of Hohler Fels and the Happurg Reservoir. These locations are popular for their scenic beauty and offer great spots for a rest.
The area around Happurger See has historical significance, with the Houbirg mountain featuring an abandoned Celtic oppidum. Remains of its walls and prehistoric sites can be explored. The Valznerweiher itself is a historic excursion destination. Additionally, the highlight Altdorf bei Nürnberg — Old Town and Pond combines a settlement with historical sites near a lake.
For runners, the Nürnberger Land offers several options. The 'Swimming Area at Happurger See – Happurg Reservoir loop from Happurg' is a moderate running trail. Another option is the 'Wöhrder Meadow Trail – Wöhrder Lake loop from Behringersdorf', which is a more challenging route. You can find more details in the Running Trails in Nürnberger Land guide.
Yes, Happurger See is a prime location for water sports. It's ideal for sailing, surfing, and stand-up paddling. While swimming is generally not permitted in the reservoir itself, the lake is a popular hub for these activities.
The Great Birkensee is well-known for its large sandy dune on the eastern shore, making it a popular spot for sunbathing. Wöhrder See also features sandy beach areas where visitors can relax and sunbathe.
Happurger See is a popular spot for fishing. Visitors interested in fishing should inquire about local regulations and permits to ensure a compliant and enjoyable experience.


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