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Plothenhölzer

Top 16 Lakes in Plothenhölzer

Best lakes in Plothenhölzer are situated on a plateau within the Thuringian Slate Mountains, forming a historic pond landscape. This region, often referred to as the "Land of 1000 Ponds," features over 600 bodies of water originally created for fish farming between the 11th and 12th centuries. These "heavenly ponds" are fed by precipitation and connected by a ditch system, offering a unique natural and cultural environment. The area provides various opportunities for exploring Plothenhölzer trails and enjoying its distinct…

Last updated: June 17, 2026

Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds)

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"The Land of 1000 Ponds". The pond landscape with a size of approx. 75 km2 is located on a plateau of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. The center of the ponds …

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Here you can orientate yourself how to run.

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Very idyllic quiet place for a rest and to relax

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Starting point for a hike around the lake around the house pond with playground and bathing area for young and old.

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The family sports club "Roter Hiel" offers an alternative swimming opportunity for all nudists at the pond of the same name. Access to the sunbathing area on the edge of the forest is only permitted for nude bathers.

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Christian
October 2, 2025, Großer Ruß Teich (Plothener Teiche)

A beautiful piece of earth

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It's wonderfully quiet here. You have to bring your own food and drink, but there's no entry fee for non-members of the club. However, there's always a small box where you can make a donation. The members appreciate it, and a small allowance for the always short, well-kept lawn, the trimmed hedges, the clean surroundings, the various seating options, and the outhouse doesn't hurt... ;-)

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Great if somewhat confusing circular route.

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A hike here is definitely recommended. Also suitable for grandma, as there are beautiful paths and no mountains. Very idyllic with the many ponds.

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A small drawback was the lack of benches. About 10 km after the start of our tour, we came to a hiking hut where we could eat our bread and butter. At first we didn't want to go in because it was a bit dark and stuffy. But then the wooden shed around us turned out to be opening shutters and we were able to have our late breakfast 😋. Order has to be kept, so later we closed the hatches in the hut again 🏚️. 🦢🦆 We visited countless small lakes today. A small wooden and stone house made itself comfortable at many of them. A few pairs of swans in love or parents and their offspring swam on the damp biotopes. A few ducks waddle and quacked around too. 🐸In the pond we discovered the green tree frog and even its predator, the heron, which we could see in the distance today.

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what a beautiful landscape

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Beautiful circular tour with many views of the ponds!

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Always wonderful in nature. Pure peace and relaxation

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the lakes in Plothenhölzer unique?

The lakes in Plothenhölzer are part of a historic pond landscape, often called the 'Land of 1000 Ponds'. These over 600 bodies of water were originally created for fish farming between the 11th and 12th centuries. They are unique because they are fed by precipitation and connected by a ditch system, rather than by springs, earning them the name 'heavenly ponds'.

Are there good viewpoints to enjoy the lake scenery?

Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. A popular spot is the View of Hausteich (Plothen Ponds), which offers a wonderful panorama over the house pond from a jetty. The North shore of the Hausteich also provides scenic views and is a starting point for hikes.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do around the lakes?

The Plothenhölzer region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including easy routes like the Goche Pond – Prince's Pond loop. Cycling is also popular, with options ranging from easy to difficult. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are dedicated MTB trails. You can find more details on specific routes in the easy hikes, cycling, and MTB guides for Plothenhölzer.

Are the lakes in Plothenhölzer suitable for families?

Absolutely. Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. For instance, the North shore of the Hausteich features a playground and a bathing area, making it ideal for families. The Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds) area also offers a recreation area with a campsite and youth hostel, along with information boards for educational insights.

Can I go swimming in the lakes?

Yes, swimming is possible. The North shore of the Hausteich has a designated bathing area. Additionally, for those seeking an alternative, the Nudist Area at Roter Hiel Pond offers a quiet spot for nude bathing, managed by a family sports club.

What is the historical significance of the Plothenhölzer pond landscape?

The Plothenhölzer pond landscape is historically significant as it was created by monks in the 11th and 12th centuries primarily for fish farming. This extensive system of ponds, originally numbering around 2,000, played a crucial role in the region's economy and food supply for centuries. The Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds) is a prime example of this historic landscape.

Are there circular walking routes around the lakes?

Yes, there are several circular walking routes. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail Dreba-Plothen is a notable option, offering short, medium, or long loops. Many other trails also provide circular paths, allowing you to explore the diverse pond landscape.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the Plothenhölzer lakes?

Visitors appreciate the unique natural beauty and the tranquility of the pond landscape. Many enjoy the wonderful views from jetties, the well-maintained recreation areas, and the opportunity to learn about the historical fish farming. The diverse hiking and cycling opportunities, along with family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and bathing areas, are also highly valued.

Is there accommodation or dining options near the lakes?

The area around Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds) features a recreation area that includes a campsite and a youth hostel, providing accommodation options. While specific cafes or pubs are not detailed for every lake, these larger recreational hubs often have facilities for visitors.

What is the best time of year to visit the Plothenhölzer lakes?

The Plothenhölzer lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for hiking and cycling due to milder temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for swimming and enjoying the bathing areas. Even in winter, the landscape can be picturesque for quiet walks, though specific winter hiking conditions should be checked.

Are the trails around the lakes generally easy or difficult?

The trails around the Plothenhölzer lakes are generally considered easy to moderate. Many routes, such as those mentioned in the easy hikes guide, are suitable for all skill levels, including families. The terrain is mostly flat as the ponds are situated on a plateau, making for accessible walks and rides.

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