Best attractions and places to see around Dam Lütsche are found in the Thuringian Forest, situated between Oberhof and Frankenhain. This region is characterized by its natural beauty, centered around the Lütsche Reservoir. It offers a variety of recreational opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts, including water sports and extensive hiking and cycling trails.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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A very beautiful dam, but sometimes frightening to see when the water level is low.
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June 2025 the reservoir may not be used due to water shortages under penalty of law.
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The Lütsche Dam is located on the northern slope of the Thuringian Forest, near Frankenhain in the Ilm district. It was originally used by the German Reichsbahn to supply stations such as Arnstadt, Neudietendorf and Erfurt with soft water for steam locomotives.
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Former boathouse of the GST (Society for Sports and Technology of the GDR)
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Construction of the Dam in Facts and Figures
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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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A holiday apartment for up to 6 people directly on the reservoir, with its own rowing boat.
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The Dam Lütsche area, nestled in the Thuringian Forest, offers a blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and recreational activities. You can explore the Lütsche Dam and its reservoir, enjoy scenic viewpoints like the View of the Lütsche Reservoir from the dam, and discover extensive hiking trails such as the Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail.
Dam Lütsche is a beautiful destination year-round. The reservoir is particularly popular for swimming and water sports during the summer months when water temperatures range from 15°C to 20°C. The circular path around the lake is easily walkable and enjoyable even outside the bathing season, offering scenic views in spring, autumn, and winter.
Yes, the Dam Lütsche area is very family-friendly. The Lütsche Dam and Lütsche Reservoir Beach are great for swimming and relaxing. The shorter two-kilometer path directly around the Lütsche Reservoir is perfect for families, and the Lütschesee Campsite offers playgrounds and other amenities.
The primary natural feature is the beautiful Lütsche Reservoir, known for its wooded surroundings and coarse-grained pebble beaches. It's nestled within the Thuringian Forest, providing a scenic backdrop for all activities. You can also find various viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding nature.
Yes, the Lütsche Dam itself is a historical landmark, built between 1935 and 1938 to supply soft water to train stations. The Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail follows an ancient rafting ditch from 1671, now recognized as a technical monument. Additionally, the unique Gartenzwergmuseum (Garden Gnome Museum) in Gräfenroda is a nearby cultural attraction.
The area offers numerous hiking trails. A highly recommended option is the 12-kilometer Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail, which includes a 38-meter long tunnel and is marked with a raftsman's hook. For easier options, there's a two-kilometer path directly around the Lütsche Reservoir. You can find more easy hikes in the region on the Easy hikes around Dam Lütsche guide.
Absolutely! The Lütsche Reservoir is a popular bathing destination with coarse-grained pebble beaches. Besides swimming, visitors can enjoy other water sports such as diving and rowing. The water temperature in summer typically ranges from 15°C to 20°C.
Yes, the region around Dam Lütsche is excellent for cycling. There are various routes catering to different preferences, including road cycling. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, you can explore the Road Cycling Routes around Dam Lütsche guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural, non-commercial atmosphere of the area. Many highlight the beautiful reservoir and its peaceful, wooded surroundings. The well-maintained Lütschesee Campsite is also frequently praised for its quiet location in the forest, making it an insider tip for nature lovers.
Dam Lütsche is located in the Thuringian Forest between Oberhof and Frankenhain, near Gräfenroda. The Lütsche-Flößgraben Circular Trail is well-reachable from Frankenhain, Gräfenroda, or Oberhof. Ample parking is available directly at the Lütsche Reservoir, which serves as a convenient starting point for many trails.
Yes, the Lütschesee Campsite, located directly by the reservoir, offers a café with restaurant services. Additionally, there are several small restaurants in the vicinity of the Lütschetalsperre, providing options for hearty food and drinks.


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