Best lakes around Dam Lütsche refers primarily to the Lütsche Reservoir, a significant body of water located on the northern slope of the Thuringian Forest in Germany. Constructed between 1935 and 1938, the dam originally supplied soft water for railway stations. Today, the reservoir serves as a prominent recreational area, offering scenic views and a natural landscape for outdoor activities. The area provides opportunities for water sports, hiking, and cycling.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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June 2025 the reservoir may not be used due to water shortages under penalty of law.
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Very beautiful reservoir in the middle of the Thuringian Forest 💚
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Swimming, fishing, relaxing, SUPing and camping. Everything is possible on the Lütsche.
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The Lütsche reservoir, located between Oberhof and Frankenhain near Gräfenroda in the middle of the Thuringian Forest, is one of the most popular bathing destinations. The reason for this is, of course, the wooded surroundings. Otherwise, the Lütsche reservoir with its coarse-grained pebble beaches is mainly something for nature lovers. Bathers who prefer to splash around in open-air stainless steel pools are less keen on it. But the Lütschetalsee, which is easy to walk around, is also a popular destination outside of the bathing season. It can only be reached by car from Frankenhain on a small, well-signposted forest road and from Oberhof on a 3 km long hiking trail. There is also a campsite by the lake and a small snack stand and a café with a restaurant on the campsite are available to provide for guests.
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The circumnavigation is also easy for beginners. Well attended in summer and there are opportunities to stop off and the ice cream man is there 😁
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A really beautiful place in the Thuringian Forest and ideal for swimming in the summer. The paths all around are also really beautiful and suitable for almost any stroller:) For the more adventurous, I recommend a backpack or baby carrier.
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Beautiful dam and you can swim here.
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The dam was built between 1935 and 1938 and served to supply soft water to the Arnstadt, Neudietendorf and Erfurt train stations.
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The Lütsche Reservoir is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy swimming, diving, rowing, and stand-up paddling (SUP) in the reservoir. The surrounding area also offers extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and road cycling. For specific routes, you can explore options like mountain hikes, road cycling routes, and general cycling tours in the Dam Lütsche region.
Yes, the area around the Lütsche Reservoir features several hiking trails. A popular option is the two-kilometer path encircling the lake. For a longer adventure, the 12-kilometer Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail is highly recommended. This trail includes a 38-meter-long tunnel and offers panoramic views, with historical information panels along the way.
A must-see spot is the View of the Lütsche Reservoir from the dam, which offers panoramic views of the reservoir and the surrounding forest. The Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail also provides beautiful vistas, including from the 'Ausgebrannter Stein' (Burnt Stone) with views into the Geratal valley.
Yes, the Lütsche Reservoir is very family-friendly. The Lütsche Reservoir Beach offers a small, idyllic pebble beach for swimming and water sports. The area also has children's playgrounds and a campsite, making it a great destination for families. Many trails, including the two-kilometer path around the lake, are suitable for family walks.
The Lütsche Reservoir itself, specifically the Lütsche Dam, was constructed between 1935 and 1938, originally to supply soft water for railway stations. The Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail follows an ancient timber-floating ditch established in 1671, offering a glimpse into the region's past as a technical monument.
Yes, there is a well-regarded Lütschesee Campsite situated directly by the reservoir. It attracts water sports enthusiasts and those looking to extend their stay in nature, offering a quiet and natural setting.
Visitors can find refreshments at an imbiss stand and a café with a restaurant located at the campsite. The area also provides facilities like boat rental, snack options, children's playgrounds, table tennis, and volleyball, particularly around the Lütsche Dam and beach areas.
The Lütsche Reservoir is accessible by car via a clearly marked forest road from Frankenhain. Alternatively, you can reach it through a 3 km hiking trail from Oberhof. Ample parking is available at the Lütschestausee, which is directly at the start of the circular hiking trails.
The Lütsche Reservoir is worth visiting in every season. In summer, the water temperature typically ranges from 15°C to 20°C, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. The hiking trails are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, and the forest landscape offers picturesque views year-round.
While specific dog rules for the reservoir are not detailed, the area is generally welcoming to outdoor enthusiasts. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature protection areas and near other visitors, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone and protect local wildlife.
The terrain around the Lütsche Reservoir varies. The two-kilometer path around the lake is relatively easy. The 12-kilometer Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail is considered moderately difficult, with approximately 150 meters of elevation gain. The forest paths are generally well-maintained, though some sections are natural, so sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.


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