Top 20 Lakes in Aurich
Best lakes in Aurich are located in East Frisia, Germany, providing diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty. The region features a variety of water bodies, including bog lakes, former gravel pits, and freshwater lakes with unique origins. These lakes contribute to the distinct landscapes of the East Frisian Geest, offering environments from marshlands to forested shores. Aurich's lakes are integral to its natural environment, attracting visitors for their ecological features.
Best lakes in Aurich
- The most popular lakes is Großes Meer at Bedekaspel, a lake that is the 4th largest in Lower Saxony. This bog lake attracts recreational athletes and is ideal for swimming, paddling, or surfing.
- Another must-see spot is Tannenhausen Lakeside Beach, a beach known for its white pebble beach and clear water. Visitors can rent pedal boats, canoes, bicycles, and beach chairs, with facilities also available for wakeboarding.
- Visitors also love Hammer Lake, a freshwater lake formed by storm surges. A hiking trail encircles the lake, passing through the gnarled trees of the Juister wood.
- Aurich is known for its bog lakes, former gravel pits, and freshwater lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct natural characteristics.
- The lakes in Aurich are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1400 upvotes and over 300 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Großes Meer at Bedekaspel
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Timmeler Harbor
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Tannenhausen Lakeside Beach
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Scenic section by the Großer Meer on the 3-Meere-Weg
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It's always a change to use muscle power to pull yourself to the other side.
In the high season, when many cyclists use this route, there can be short waiting times. It's definitely a change. Wish everyone a lot of fun on the crossing.
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Hammer Lake
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Ottermeer Beach
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Lake Königskeil
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Leyhörn Nature Reserve Birdwatching Hut
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Leyhörn Nature Reserve
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Different birds to watch....seagulls squawking....
💙 Hello, welcome to a soothing break 📸
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Südstrandpolder Birdwatching Hut
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Popular around Aurich
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Nordsee: Road cycling tours in Ostfriesland
Other adventures in Aurich
Tips from the Community
Welcome to bird watching at the Südstrandpolder! The Südstrandpolder is of artificial origin: construction of a military airport began here in 1940, but was never completed, with the exception of the dike. Instead, a diverse landscape developed from the former mudflats. Today, the polder is home to extensive bushes and wet heaths, as well as the largest reed beds on the East Frisian Islands. These reed beds and the pond system created in 1988 are home to many species of birds that breed, feed and rest here.
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A beautiful route through the forest and the moor.
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KÖNIGSKEIL ○ After the 1765 edict of reclamation, the Prussian king took possession of wasteland, heaths and moors for himself and leased them to colonists. Disputes over the land that had previously been used jointly were inevitable. The Norder Fehngesellschaft also fought with the state for 80 years over land that had been promised to them in the leasehold contract. When an agreement was reached in 1875, the company received the so-called "Königskeil" and an enlarged area nearby as compensation. -Information board on site-
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There is a lot to discover on this section. We were very lucky and saw a marsh harrier, oystercatchers, many geese, a meadow yellow wagtail, ducks and a male ruff. Of course there were also numerous gulls and tawny terns.
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The 646 hectare "Leyhörn" nature reserve protrudes into the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park as a nose-shaped 👃 bulge and is of great importance as a flood-free, coastal 🐣 breeding and resting area with diverse biotope structures. The bottom line, however, is that we see a lot more 🐑 🐑 🐑 sheep here than 🦅🦆🦢🪶 birds 😅.
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The 646 hectare "Leyhörn" nature reserve protrudes as a nose-shaped 👃 bulge into the Lower Saxony Wadden Sea National Park and is of great importance as a flood-free, coastal 🐣 breeding and resting area with diverse biotope structures. The bottom line, however, is that we see a lot more 🐑 🐑 🐑 sheep here than 🦅🦆🦢🪶 birds 😅.
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Enjoy wonderful peace and quiet, expansive panoramic views. Different birds to watch....seagulls squawking.... 💙 Hello, welcome to a soothing break 📸
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You should bring time and binoculars with you here. A huge bird area. Beautiful untouched nature.🦤
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Frequently Asked Questions
What water sports and activities are available at Aurich's lakes?
Many of Aurich's lakes offer a variety of water sports. For example, Großes Meer at Bedekaspel is ideal for swimming, paddling, and surfing. At Tannenhausen Lakeside Beach, you can rent pedal boats, canoes, and even try wakeboarding. The Timmeler Harbor at Timmeler Meer allows you to charter pedal boats or other vessels to explore the lake.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes in Aurich?
Yes, several lakes in Aurich feature hiking trails. Hammer Lake has a hiking trail encircling it, passing through the gnarled trees of the Juister wood. You can also find scenic sections by the Großer Meer on the 3-Meere-Weg. For easy hikes, consider routes like the 'Great Sea – Beach at Großes Meer loop' or the 'Großes Meer – Großes Meer Recreation Area loop' near Bedekaspel. More options are available in the Easy Hikes in Aurich guide.
Which lakes are best for families with children in Aurich?
Several lakes in Aurich are family-friendly. Großes Meer at Bedekaspel, Tannenhausen Lakeside Beach, and Ottermeer Beach are popular choices, offering amenities and activities suitable for all ages. Timmeler Harbor also provides family-friendly boat rentals and excursions.
What makes Hammer Lake unique?
Hammer Lake has a fascinating origin story, formed by several storm surges that divided the island of Juist. While initially saline, it is now a freshwater lake. A hiking trail encircles the lake, passing through the unique gnarled trees of the Juister wood, making it a special spot for nature walks and observing its historical formation.
Can I go swimming in the lakes of Aurich?
Yes, swimming is a popular activity at several lakes. Großes Meer at Bedekaspel is ideal for swimming. Tannenhausen Lakeside Beach is known for its crystal-clear water and white pebble beach, making it a favorite for swimming and often referred to as the 'Rimini of East Frisia' due to its excellent water quality.
What kind of wildlife can I observe around Aurich's lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas in Aurich are rich in wildlife. The Leybucht, while not a typical recreational lake, is a significant natural area and a 'hot spot' for ornithologists, supporting around 200 different bird species throughout the year. Areas like Lake Königskeil offer a quiet moor landscape with diverse flora and fauna, and the Moorland Wetland is another excellent spot for nature observation.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes in Aurich?
Yes, Aurich offers various cycling opportunities near its lakes. You can find numerous routes in the Cycling in Aurich guide and the Road Cycling Routes in Aurich guide. These guides feature routes that often pass by or offer views of the region's lakes and coastal areas.
When is the best time to visit the lakes in Aurich?
The lakes in Aurich can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming, water sports, and enjoying the beaches. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural scenery. Birdwatching in areas like Leybucht can be rewarding throughout the year, especially during migration seasons.
Are there any particularly quiet or secluded lakes in Aurich?
Lake Königskeil is known as a very secluded lake, nestled in the middle of a forest by the Eternal Sea. It offers a quiet location within a typical moor landscape, perfect for a peaceful break and observing nature.
What facilities are available at Timmeler Meer?
At Timmeler Harbor, located by the Timmeler Meer, you'll find a stylish harbor atmosphere. Facilities include options to charter pedal boats or other vessels, and you can even take an excursion on the old peat ship 'Gretje'. It's a great spot to rest, dine, and swim, with a paddle & pedal station also available.
What do visitors enjoy most about Aurich's lakes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and natural beauty of Aurich's lakes. The community highlights the clear waters for swimming, the scenic trails for hiking and cycling, and the peaceful atmosphere for relaxation. The unique characteristics of each lake, from the bog lake Großes Meer to the historic Hammer Lake, are frequently praised.
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