Best lakes around Gorleben are situated within the Lower Saxon Elbe Valley Leas biosphere reserve, a region primarily defined by the Elbe river landscape. While Gorleben itself is on the Elbe, the surrounding area features natural formations like lakes created in glacial depressions. The geography includes alluvial forests, wetlands, and sandbanks, providing diverse habitats. This area offers opportunities to observe the river landscape and explore various bodies of water.
Last updated: June 13, 2026
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Beautiful view over almost the entire lake
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A beautiful circular tour, whether on foot or by bike. The bike should be off-road capable, though. In summer, there's probably a lot of sugar sand.
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Also recommended at dusk. A flock of countless starlings landed in the reeds right in front of us. A great experience!
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It is a great place to take a short break at Lake Gartower.
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The lake was artificially created in the 1970s and is primarily used for local recreation. At the outflow towards Restorf there is a barrage in the Seege to regulate the lake water level. Although the lake lies about 2 km to the side of the Elbe, extensive flooding occurs in the lake plain during recurring Elbe floods, which can also cover the area of Lake Gartower. A special example was the Elbe flood in 2013, where the top of the dike on the L 256 from Gartow towards Gorleben had to be secured.
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The Gartower See is a still body of water in the municipality of Gartow in the Lüchow-Dannenberg district in Lower Saxony. The lake, which is approximately 2.3 km long and a maximum of 650 m wide, is located north of the core area of Gartow and between the northeastern state road L 258 and the L 256. The B 493 crosses the lake in its southeastern section. The outflow at the northwest end of the lake occurs via the Seege, a left tributary of the Elbe.
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Interesting information on the display board
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In wet weather, the north bank is very muddy in two places. I prefer to take the road and drive back down past the restaurant.
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The Gorleben region is primarily defined by the Elbe river landscape, which is part of the Lower Saxon Elbe Valley Leas biosphere reserve. You'll find alluvial forests, wetlands, and sandbanks, providing diverse habitats for wildlife like numerous bird species and the Elbe beaver. While not abundant in large natural recreational lakes, the area features bodies of water formed in glacial depressions.
Visitors often enjoy the View of Lake Gartow, which is considered the heart of Gartow village and suitable for swimming. Another popular spot is Besandten Brack, a brackish lake formed after a dike breach, where you can also swim. For a quieter experience, the Schweinekuhle Pond in Groß Gusborn is a biotope known for its diverse animal and plant species.
Yes, several lakes offer swimming opportunities. Lake Gartow is a popular choice with designated bathing areas. You can also swim in Besandten Brack, a pretty, medium-sized brackish water body located directly next to the Elbe dike. The Rudower See, a larger lake, also has unofficial swimming areas near Lenzen and Leuengarten.
Absolutely. Lake Gartow is highly recommended for families, offering swimming and a pleasant environment. Besandten Brack is also considered family-friendly for a swim. The Schweinekuhle Pond in Groß Gusborn provides a quiet spot for observing nature, which can be engaging for children.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling along the Elbe dike, which provides views of the river and its surroundings. For more structured routes, explore the gravel biking routes or road cycling routes around Gorleben. There are also easy hiking trails, such as those near the Seege River or around Gorleben itself.
Yes, there are several options for hiking. A circular route is possible around the Rudower See, suitable for both walking and cycling. For general hiking, you can find easy hikes around Gorleben, including paths that take you through natural areas and offer views of the local landscape.
The lakes around Gorleben are enjoyable throughout the year. Summer is ideal for swimming at spots like Lake Gartow and Besandten Brack. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for cycling and hiking, with beautiful natural scenery. Even in winter, the landscape around lakes like Gartow can be picturesque for a quiet stroll.
Yes, the region is rich in wildlife. The Elbe river landscape, part of a biosphere reserve, provides habitats for numerous bird species and the Elbe beaver. The Schweinekuhle Pond in Groß Gusborn is a biotope where you can observe diverse animal and plant species, including listening to frog concerts in early summer.
Near Lake Gartow, you'll find restaurants and natural places with a lookout tower, making it a good spot for a break and a meal. For accommodation and more dining options, consider the village of Gartow itself, which is centered around the lake.
Visitors frequently praise the beauty and tranquility of the lakes. They appreciate the opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and observing nature. The Gartower See is often highlighted as a beautiful lake perfect for swimming, running, hiking, and relaxing, with clean restrooms and water refill stations available. The peaceful atmosphere and diverse biotopes are also highly valued.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. A lake tour is possible by bike around Lake Gartow. Additionally, the Elbe Cycle Path runs along the Elbe dike, which is adjacent to Besandten Brack, offering scenic routes. For more extensive rides, explore the gravel biking and road cycling guides for the Gorleben area.
The Elbe River is a significant natural feature that flows along the eastern, northern, and northwestern borders of Gorleben. It defines the local landscape, offering opportunities to observe its unique environment, including alluvial forests, wetlands, and sandbanks. These areas are vital habitats for numerous bird species and the Elbe beaver, making the river an important part of the local ecosystem.


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