Best lakes around Riethnordhausen, a municipality in Thuringia, Germany, are centered around the Riethnordhäuser Teiche. This collection of four small, shallow lakes is part of the larger "Erfurter Seen" system. These landscape lakes originated from gravel extraction and have undergone renaturation since 1992, transforming into a recreational area. The area offers opportunities for nature observation, fishing, and walking routes around the lakes.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Mountain Hut
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Cafe
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Riethnordhausen.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Cool houses floating on the water and not far from the bike path.
0
0
Easily accessible. However, the footbridge is unfortunately in very poor condition these days.
0
0
It's a great place to relax; the water is illuminated in the evenings.
0
0
If anyone wants to reschedule at short notice, this guide will help. 😉
1
0
Nice and delicious cafe by the lake.
2
0
Auensee which was created for the BUGA
0
0
Great idea with the cafe. Unfortunately we didn't see it open earlier.
2
0
Over there, in your line of sight, there is a playground.
2
0
The Riethnordhäuser Teiche are a collection of four shallow lakes that originated from former gravel mining operations. Since 1992, the area has been undergoing renaturation, transforming into a natural recreational area. They are known for nature observation, fishing, and walking opportunities within a developing natural landscape.
The lakes offer various recreational activities. You can enjoy nature observation, fishing, and hiking around the Riethnordhäuser Teiche. For water sports like swimming and sailing, Alperstedter See is a popular choice, known for its swimming spots and annual dragon boat race.
Yes, the Riethnordhäuser Teiche are nestled within a green belt with existing field paths. Future plans include developing more walking paths. For structured routes, you can find several easy hikes, including loops around the Alperstedter Ried Wetlands and St. Marien Church Nöda. Explore more options on the Easy hikes around Riethnordhausen guide.
Many areas around the lakes are family-friendly. For instance, Alperstedter See and Auenteich, Erfurt are both highlighted as suitable for families. The Auenteich, created as part of BUGA 2021, features a cafe and a water fountain, inviting visitors to linger.
While the Riethnordhäuser Teiche are primarily for nature observation and fishing, Alperstedter See is well-known for its swimming spots. The Auenteich, Erfurt, does not permit swimming, but has a nearby Kneipp pool for cooling off.
As a renaturated area with flat shores and a green belt, the Riethnordhäuser Teiche are ideal for nature observation. You can expect to see various bird species and other local wildlife that thrive in wetland and lakeside environments.
Yes, the broader Erfurt Lakes area, which includes the Riethnordhäuser Teiche, offers numerous cycling tracks. You can find various road cycling and touring bicycle routes. For example, there's an easy touring bicycle route that follows the Gera Cycle Path to Alperstedter See. More cycling options are available in the Cycling around Riethnordhausen guide.
There are several options for refreshments. Alperstedter See has a restaurant on its eastern shore. The Auenteich, Erfurt features a cafe right on its edge. Additionally, you can find Café by the Lake Erfurt, offering a wonderful view and a pleasant spot for coffee.
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and swimming. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for walks, and even winter can provide tranquil scenery for walks, though specific facilities might have reduced hours.
Yes, near Alperstedter See, you can find Floating cabins. These offer a special overnight option directly on the lake, providing a unique experience for travelers.
Visitors appreciate the variety of natural settings, from renaturated recreational zones to established fishing spots. The area's appeal for outdoor activities is evident, with many enjoying the pleasant breaks offered by spots like the Fish pond on the Geraradweg, which provides a bench for relaxation.
Yes, the Riethnordhäuser Teiche are part of the larger 'Erfurter Seen' (Erfurt Lakes) system. Besides the lakes directly around Riethnordhausen, other notable lakes in the broader area include Stotternheimer See and Alperstedter See, which offer additional opportunities for bathing and various water sports.


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