Best lakes around Dreitzsch are found in the nearby Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet, an extensive pond landscape often referred to as the "Land of a Thousand Ponds." This area, located between Plothen, Dreba, and Knau, is a significant natural and cultural highlight. The ponds were historically created by monks in the 11th and 12th centuries for fish farming, with about 600 remaining today. The region is largely designated as a nature reserve, part of the Thuringian Slate Mountains/Upper Saale Nature Park, and…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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A beautiful piece of earth
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It is wonderful to walk between the ponds.
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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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Fish, frogs, dragonflies and butterflies can be discovered everywhere
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Beautiful circular tour with many views of the ponds!
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The lakes around Dreitzsch are part of the extensive Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet, often called the "Land of a Thousand Ponds." This historically grown landscape features unique "Himmelsteiche" (heaven ponds) primarily fed by rainfall, not springs, and connected by a ditch system. Originally created by monks in the 11th and 12th centuries for fish farming, about 600 ponds remain today, forming a significant nature reserve.
Yes, the most prominent historical landmark is the Pfahlhaus (pile-dwelling house) on the Hausteich. This approximately 300-year-old house, built on stilts directly in the water, has been restored and now houses a museum dedicated to fishing and pond management. It's considered the landmark of the Plothener Teichgebiet.
The Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet is a designated nature reserve and European Bird Sanctuary, boasting rich biodiversity. You can observe various bird species such as grebes, lapwings, coots, snipe, ospreys, and kites. It's also an internationally important resting place for migratory birds, with the spectacular "Plothener Starenwunder" (Starling Miracle) occurring during migration.
Absolutely. The area is very family-friendly. You can find a child-friendly campsite with a beach at the Hausteich, complete with a large sunbathing lawn and a children's playground. The Small Ponds Near the Youth Hostel also offer outdoor facilities and are a great base for families.
While the area is largely a nature reserve, swimming is permitted in designated areas. You can find opportunities for swimming near the youth hostel and the camping site, particularly at the Hausteich, which has a beach area.
The region offers well-developed paths for hiking and cycling. There are also marked nature trails with observation towers and shelters that guide visitors through the unique pond landscape. Consider the 1000 Ponds Circular Trail Dreba-Plothen for an immersive experience.
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. The Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet itself has marked nature trails and circular routes like the 1000 Ponds Circular Trail Dreba-Plothen. For more options, you can explore the wider region with routes found in the Hiking around Dreitzsch guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful natural environment, the rich biodiversity, and the unique historical context of the pond landscape. The opportunity for nature observation, especially birdwatching, and the well-maintained paths for walking and cycling are frequently highlighted. The Großer Ruß Pond, for instance, offers insights into the ecological balance and fish farming, inviting visitors to linger.
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points to the Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet, especially near popular spots like the Hausteich, the youth hostel, and the camping site. These areas are equipped to accommodate visitors exploring the pond landscape.
The Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly recommended. Spring offers vibrant nature and the return of many bird species, while autumn is spectacular for bird migration, including the famous "Plothener Starenwunder." Summer is ideal for recreational activities like swimming and camping.
Yes, the area is well-suited for cycling with numerous paths. You can enjoy scenic rides through the pond landscape. For more cycling routes in the broader region, check out the Cycling around Dreitzsch guide.
Yes, there are options for both. The region has cafes, pubs, and accommodation, particularly in the villages surrounding the Dreba-Plothener Teichgebiet like Plothen. A youth hostel and a camping site are also available directly at the Hausteich, offering convenient access to the lakes.


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