Best lakes around Kandel are characterized by their diverse natural and historical landscapes. This region, situated near the Old Rhine, features a mix of protected natural areas and former industrial sites transformed into scenic lakes. Visitors can explore riverine environments, nature reserves, and tranquil waters.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
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Beautiful nature reserve. The many white willows and dragonflies are immediately noticeable. Softwood and hardwood floodplains together form the floodplain forest, the species-richest habitat in Central Europe. Up to 400 day and night butterflies and over 900 different beetle species can be found here, including some species that are endangered throughout Europe.
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Beautiful spot on the Federbach stream
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Beautifully located right on the lake with a terrace on the lakeshore. We only had coffee, but we'll be back for dinner. The menu looked tempting.
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A very beautiful, large branch of the Old Rhine – very idyllic in many places, with many small rowboats, a historic ferry, and many other features. A must-see and walk through.
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Very nice restaurant with a view of the ferry
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Very nice nature reserve. Take something against mosquitoes with you. You will need it 😊
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The region around Kandel is known for its diverse aquatic landscapes, including riverine lakes, nature reserves, and former gravel pit lakes. Many of these areas are under nature protection, offering tranquil waters and scenic environments.
Yes, the region offers both. For instance, the Altrhein Leopoldshafen presents the Rhine as it was before it was straightened, featuring a historic ferry. You can also visit the Panzergraben Schaidt, a former anti-tank ditch from the West Wall, now a calm fish pond near the Bienwald.
A prominent nature reserve is the Altrhein Maxau Nature Reserve, which encompasses parts of the Old Rhine and a former gravel pit lake. It's located in western Karlsruhe and covers approximately 35 hectares, offering a protected natural environment.
Many of the lakes and their surrounding areas are family-friendly. Highlights like Altrhein Leopoldshafen, Altrhein Maxau Nature Reserve, and Knielinger Lake are noted for being suitable for families, often with bike paths and natural settings to explore.
The Anglerheim Neupotz by the lake is a popular choice. It's a restaurant located directly on the lakeshore, offering a terrace with water views, perfect for coffee or dinner.
The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate loops, as well as gravel biking and road cycling routes. For hiking, explore options like the 'Naturfreundehaus Kandel – Schwanenweiher Kandel loop' or 'Steigner Hut – Heilbrunnen loop'. For cycling, consider routes like 'Old Rhine (Alt-Rhein) – Fishing Docks on the Old Rhine loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and road cycling guide for Kandel.
Lakes like Altrhein Leopoldshafen and Altrhein Maxau Nature Reserve are excellent for walks and hikes, often featuring scenic bike paths and natural trails. The hiking guide for Kandel provides routes that often incorporate these beautiful lake areas.
Visitors particularly appreciate the idyllic and romantic atmosphere, the beautiful nature, and the well-maintained bike paths that allow for easy exploration. The presence of nature reserves and tranquil waters also contributes to a relaxing experience.
Yes, the region has several former gravel pit lakes. The Knielinger Lake, for example, originated as a gravel pit in the late 1950s and is now a protected natural area. The Altrhein Maxau Nature Reserve also encompasses a former gravel pit lake.
Absolutely. The Altrhein Leopoldshafen is a significant river and lake area that showcases the Rhine's original course. The Altrhein Maxau Nature Reserve and Knielinger Lake are also integral parts of the Old Rhine landscape.


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