Best lakes around Soest offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its scenic reservoirs and smaller forest lakes, providing a variety of outdoor experiences. These bodies of water are integrated into surrounding forests and natural areas, making them popular destinations for local exploration. The district of Soest in Germany features several notable lakes, each with distinct characteristics and attractions.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Hiking around Soest
MTB Trails around Soest
From the path, the Pluismeer lake is reasonably visible, but it's worth stepping off the path for a moment to admire it in all its glory. At the beginning of the day with the rising sun, it has a magical aura.
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We were there in the fall. Quiet and varied area.
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Unfortunately, visiting the Treek is not recommended https://www.utrechtslandschap.nl/nieuws/blijf-weg-uit-de-utrechtse-bos-en-natuurgebieden-tussen-a12-en-a28
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Enjoy the peace and quiet
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Wrong Gerard!! it was 29.98%
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water is now about 0.5 m lower than a month ago
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Den Treek is a hamlet and estate belonging to the Dutch municipality of Leusden, in the province of Utrecht.
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Among the lakes around Soest, Heidestein Forest Lake and Den Treek Bird Pond are highly appreciated by the komoot community. Heidestein Forest Lake is known for its fairytale environment and beautiful colors, especially in autumn, while Den Treek Bird Pond is popular for its bird population and pleasant walking paths.
Yes, several lakes around Soest are suitable for families. Bosmeer Pond in Utrechtse Heuvelrug is a great spot with a small dune area where families can sit and enjoy the surroundings. Den Treek Bird Pond and Groot Wasmeer are also noted as family-friendly, offering pleasant walks and natural beauty.
The lakes around Soest offer diverse natural features. You can find forest lakes like Heidestein Forest Lake with its green water and surrounding tunnels, or ponds with unique characteristics such as the small dune area at Bosmeer Pond. Den Treek Bird Pond is notable for its diverse bird population, varying by season. Groot Wasmeer features a beautiful area that can sometimes resemble swampland after heavy rainfall, often grazed by Scottish Highlanders.
Yes, near some of the lakes, you can find historical and cultural landmarks. For instance, Groeneveld Castle is a beautiful country estate with a Rococo-style country house and a park perfect for walking. It also features a Grand Café in the former coach house and offers tours of its vineyard and ice cellar.
The area around Soest's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling, with routes like the 'Sandy Section on MTB Trail' or 'Bike path along the Eem'. Running is also popular, with trails such as 'Short Dunes – Soesterduinen loop'. For more details on routes, you can explore the Cycling around Soest guide or the Running Trails around Soest guide.
Absolutely. Many of the lakes offer pleasant walking opportunities. For example, a path leads around Heidestein Forest Lake, and you can walk around Bosmeer Pond, which is embedded in sand dunes. Den Treek Bird Pond also has a path leading around its large expanse. For more extensive hiking, check out the Running Trails around Soest guide, which includes many scenic paths.
While the guide highlights focus on scenic beauty and walking, specific information about designated swimming spots for these particular lakes (Heidestein Forest Lake, Bosmeer Pond, Den Treek Bird Pond, Groot Wasmeer) is not detailed. It's always best to check local signage or official municipal websites for current swimming regulations and water quality before entering the water.
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil and natural environments. Many appreciate the 'fairytale environment' of Heidestein Forest Lake and the opportunity to relax and enjoy the surroundings at Bosmeer Pond. The diverse birdlife at Den Treek Bird Pond and the unique landscape of Groot Wasmeer also receive positive feedback.
Yes, some locations offer dining options. For example, Groeneveld Castle, which is near some of the lakes, has a Grand Café where you can eat and drink. For other lakes, it's advisable to check local amenities or bring your own picnic to enjoy the natural setting.
The lakes offer beauty throughout the year. Autumn is particularly stunning at Heidestein Forest Lake due to its 'beautiful colors'. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and birdwatching, especially at Den Treek Bird Pond when bird populations are active. Even after rainfall, areas like Groot Wasmeer can present a unique, almost 'swampland' appearance.
While specific regulations for each lake regarding dogs are not detailed in the guide, many natural areas in the Netherlands are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's recommended to look for local signage at each lake or check municipal websites for specific rules regarding pets to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Yes, many of the lakes offer excellent viewpoints. Heidestein Forest Lake has a resting place slightly above the lake, and Bosmeer Pond provides a nice spot to sit and enjoy the surroundings. Den Treek Bird Pond and Groot Wasmeer are also considered scenic, offering picturesque views of the water and surrounding nature.


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