Top 17 Lakes around Hochwald
Lakes around Hochwald are situated within the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park, a region characterized by its low mountain range landscape. This area is part of the "Dreiländereck," where Germany, France, and Luxembourg meet, and is also within the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. The region offers natural settings for various outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Hochwald
- The most popular lakes is Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden, a natural monument that features the largest English landscaped garden in Switzerland. It includes Birseck Castle, small caves, and various wild places.
- Another must-see spot is Green Park, a facilities area with ponds, a large playground, and mini golf. Visitors can expect a well-laid-out park with numerous cultural activities.
- Visitors also love Park im Grünen (Grün 80), a forest area with ponds, barbecue spots, and green spaces. This recreational park is known for its nature park, cultural park, and children's park.
- Hochwald is known for reservoirs and natural lakes. The variety of lakes in the broader region offers opportunities for water sports, relaxation, and scenic walks.
- The lakes around Hochwald are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 180 photos and over 380 upvotes.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden
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Old Rhine at Wyhlen
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Park im Grünen (Grün 80)
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Little lake in Bogental
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Shortly before the Bogental farm we come across a pond. The Bogental pond was built around 1595 and was used to float wood until the beginning of the 19th century. By quickly emptying the pond, the wood could be floated with the flood wave via the Lüssel and Birs to Basel. Today the pond is an important spawning area for amphibians. Instead of cowbells, we can still hear the ringing of the "Glögglifrosches", the call of the rare midwife toad, which is reminiscent of a distant bell ringing.
Source: wwf-bs.ch
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Wildenstein Castle Pond
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Very beautiful area and nature reserve.
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The park in the green is a popular local recreation area on the edge of the city. Paved paths invite you to stroll, skate and cycle, but sports and playgrounds and beautiful green spaces also beckon. The park, formerly known as Grün 80, once served as a summer residence for the Basel philanthropist Christoph Merian. Today, the garden is a popular excursion destination, featuring a pond, a mini-golf course, a cafeteria, a restaurant, a playground, and a small shop. https://www.basel.com/de/attraktionen/park-im-gruenen-dbfe1e396b
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Between the oak grove and Wildenstein Castle, the castle pond lies somewhat hidden and inaccessible behind a dense thicket. It's an idyllic spot that deserves protection. There's no path to its shore, and that's a good thing, because countless animal species make their home here and appreciate being left in peace. And let's be honest. Would we really like it if every Tom, Dick, and Harry descended on us uninvited, made a lot of noise, and perhaps even left behind a mess? At least there's this: For hikers and walkers, there are two lovely park benches right by the path by the pond, inviting you to linger.
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The Ermitage is a large and lovingly designed green area from 1785, with three idyllic ponds, several romantic grottos, historical buildings, pretty walking paths between the shore and the edge of the forest and, on top of it all, the castle ruins of Bierseck Castle, as the crowning glory of the whole. It is a wonderful place for physical and mental relaxation, but those seeking peace and quiet should visit outside of the holidays or weekends. It is a real visitor magnet. Warning! The grottos can only be reached on foot and via steep stairs. The rest of the garden is mostly wheelchair accessible and suitable for pushchairs. There are no parking spaces directly at the Ermitage! Free entry!
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A princess pond through and through. If you are very quiet, you can hear the lovely ladies laughing ;-)
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The double power plant Augst (operator: 80% KWA 20% Canton Basel Land) and Wyhlen (operator: Energiedienst Holding Laufenburg, majority owned by EnBW since 2003) were built together between 1908 and 1912. The 212.80 m long weir has 10 openings, each with a clear width of 17.50 m. Each opening can be closed by a 9 m high iron gate. These are moved by winches that rest on an iron bridge structure above the pillar heads. A concrete weir bridge on the underwater side serves to reinforce the weir. Weir pillars and supports are clad with Black Forest granite. Until 1990, ten Francis turbine groups on both sides generated 2.2 MW each and two exciter groups each generated 440 kW of electrical energy. Since 1990, two of the former ten Francis turbine groups and two exciter groups have been in operation on the Swiss side; the rest have been replaced by seven built-in Straflo turbine groups, each with an output of 5.54 MW. Since 1990, five of the former ten Francis turbine groups and two exciter groups have still been in operation on the German side; the others have been replaced by six installed Straflo turbine groups. There is also a photovoltaic system on the roof of the KW Wyhlen machine hall with an area of 720 m² and an annual output of approx. 70,000 kWh. Since the end of 2017, a power-to-gas pilot plant for the climate-neutral production of hydrogen using electricity from hydropower has been operating on the Wyhlen power plant site. Source: Energiedienst AG
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most notable lakes in the Hochwald region?
The most notable lakes in the Hochwald region are the Losheimer Stausee (Losheim Reservoir) and the Bostalsee. The Losheimer Stausee is known for its picturesque setting within the low mountain range landscape, while the Bostalsee, located directly within the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park, is popular for a wide range of water sports and recreational activities.
Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in Hochwald?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly activities. The Bostalsee features Center Parcs Bostalsee with amenities like indoor miniature golf, a high ropes course, and a swimming pool. Additionally, highlights like Park im Grünen (Grün 80) and Green Park offer large playgrounds, mini golf, and green spaces suitable for families.
What kind of water sports can I do at the lakes in Hochwald?
The Bostalsee is particularly popular for water sports, offering opportunities for surfing, sailing, swimming, rowing, diving, and pedal boating. The Losheimer Stausee also provides excellent conditions for bathing and various water activities.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in Hochwald?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The Bostalsee has an approximately 7-kilometer-long circular route perfect for walks. For more extensive hiking, you can explore the Mountain Hikes around Hochwald guide, which includes routes like the Pfeffingen Castle Ruins – Eggflue Viewpoint loop.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Hochwald?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. While the Bostalsee offers a circular route, you can find more dedicated cycling routes in the region. Check out the Cycling around Hochwald guide for options like the Frenke Waterfalls loop or the Music Box Museum Seewen – Basler Weiher loop.
What natural features can I expect to see near the lakes?
The lakes are set within a picturesque low mountain range landscape, part of the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park and the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. You can find diverse natural features, including forests, green spaces, and unique natural monuments like the Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden, which features small lakes and caves.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers some historical and cultural points of interest. The Ermitage Arlesheim Landscape Garden includes Birseck Castle. Near the Bostalsee, you can visit the Kunst- und Kulturzentrum am Bostalsee, which hosts workshops and cultural events.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Hochwald?
Visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the variety of recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of places like Wildenstein Castle Pond, the well-laid-out parks such as Green Park, and the exciting water landscapes found at the Old Rhine at Wyhlen.
Is the Hochwald region part of a larger natural area?
Yes, the lakes around Hochwald are situated within the Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park and are also part of the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park. The region is also known as the "Dreiländereck," where Germany, France, and Luxembourg meet.
Are there places to eat or have a coffee near the lakes?
Yes, some recreational areas near the lakes offer dining options. For instance, Park im Grünen (Grün 80) includes facilities with cafes and restaurants. The Center Parcs Bostalsee also provides various amenities, including dining options.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Hochwald?
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, and hiking, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the serene landscapes can be appealing for quiet walks, though specific water activities might be limited.
Are there any hidden or less-known lakes worth exploring?
While the Losheimer Stausee and Bostalsee are well-known, smaller, more tranquil spots like the Wildenstein Castle Pond offer a peaceful experience within a nature reserve, known for its aquatic plants and animals.
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