Highlight • Lake
Perft Reservoir
Mountain biking
4.8
(626)
Hiking
4.8
(32)
Cycling
5.0
(5)
The Perfstausee, also known as the Breidenstein/Perf flood retention basin, is a picturesque man-made lake nestled in the northern part of the Gladenbacher Bergland in Hesse, Germany. Situated between the municipalities of Breidenbach and Breidenstein, this significant body of water lies on the lower course of the Perf, a right-bank tributary of the Lahn river. At an elevation of approximately 302 metres, it serves not only as crucial flood protection for the Perf and Lahn valleys but also as a popular recreational area, boasting diverse natural features and facilities.
Visitors consistently praise the Perfstausee for its tranquil atmosphere and the variety of activities it offers. Hikers and cyclists particularly enjoy the well-maintained paths, with many highlighting the pleasant circular route around the lake. The presence of observation sites overlooking the nature reserve is a common point of appreciation, allowing for peaceful birdwatching and enjoying the scenic Perfstausee viewpoints.
Before heading out, it's good to know that the Perfstausee offers free parking, making access convenient for most. The roughly three-kilometer-long circular path around the lake is stroller-friendly, making it an excellent choice for Perfstausee lake family friendly walks. Dogs are welcome on a leash, though they are not permitted in designated lying and play areas, ensuring Perfstausee lake dog friendly trails for responsible owners. While swimming is currently prohibited, efforts are underway to reopen it for bathing.
The Perfstausee is a year-round destination, offering seasonal activities for everyone. The best time to visit depends on your preferred activity, with warmer months ideal for non-motorized water sports like stand-up paddling, canoeing, and pedalo boating, which are available for rent. For those who prefer land-based exploration, the Perfstausee lake trails are perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling, with the lake integrated into the Lahn-Dill-Bergland cycling network via the Seenradweg.
A popular option for many is the approximately three-kilometer circular walk around the Perfstausee. This accessible route offers continuous views of the water and surrounding forests, making it a perfect choice for a relaxed stroll or a quick jog. The path is generally flat and well-maintained, suitable for all ages and fitness levels, and gives a good sense of how long to walk around Perfstausee lake.
Beyond the main path, visitors can discover a dedicated viewing platform within the "Im Wehr bei Breidenstein" nature reserve, offering glimpses of various waterfowl, including kingfishers and ospreys. The "Seeblick" restaurant, located on the upper west bank, provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal with a view, while "Weitblick" loungers invite quiet contemplation. These Perfstausee natural features and amenities create a truly immersive experience.
Whether you're looking for Perfstausee hiking routes, a leisurely cycle, or simply a place to unwind amidst nature, the lake provides a wealth of options. Explore the various circular walks Perfstausee lake has to offer, or plan your own adventure using komoot to discover more trails and points of interest in the Gladenbacher Bergland. With its diverse offerings, the Perfstausee is a truly family friendly destination.
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Tips
November 2, 2018
Mountain biking
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Details
Informations
Elevation 300 m
Weather
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Saturday 9 May
19°C
6°C
20 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there longer or more challenging hiking routes available near Perfstausee beyond the main circular path?
While the main circular path around Perfstausee is a gentle 3-kilometer stroll, the lake is integrated into the broader Lahn-Dill-Bergland cycling network via the 44-kilometer-long Seenradweg. This suggests connections to a wider network of trails. For more challenging hikes, you would need to explore routes extending into the surrounding Gladenbacher Bergland, which offers diverse terrain. You can use komoot to discover and plan these longer routes.
How early should I arrive to secure parking at Perfstausee, especially on busy days?
While free parking is available, community tips often suggest that parking can fill up quickly, particularly on weekends, holidays, and during peak summer months. Arriving before mid-morning is strongly recommended to ensure you find a convenient spot, especially if you plan to spend a full day at the lake.
What specific amenities or activities are available for families with children at Perfstausee?
Perfstausee is very family-friendly. Besides the stroller-friendly circular path, there is a dedicated children's playground. During summer, families can enjoy renting pedal boats. The beach volleyball court and disc golf course also offer fun activities for older children and teenagers. The nature reserve with its viewing platform provides an educational opportunity for birdwatching.
What are the rules regarding dogs at Perfstausee, and are there specific dog-friendly trails?
Dogs are permitted at Perfstausee but must be kept on a leash at all times. It's important to note that dogs are not allowed in designated lying and play areas, such as the beach volleyball court or children's playground. The main circular path around the lake is suitable for walks with leashed dogs, and many surrounding trails in the forested areas are also dog-friendly.
Is wild swimming permitted in Perfstausee, or are there designated bathing areas?
Currently, swimming has been prohibited in Perfstausee since 2016 due to potential bacterial contamination, despite generally good water quality. Efforts are being made to reopen it for bathing in the future, but for now, wild swimming is not allowed. Visitors can still enjoy various non-motorized water sports like canoeing, kayaking, rowing, pedalo boating, and stand-up paddling.
Are there any cafes or restaurants directly at Perfstausee, or nearby?
Yes, the "Seeblick" restaurant is conveniently located on the upper west bank of Perfstausee, offering refreshments and meals with a view of the lake. This is the primary dining option directly at the lake. For additional cafes or pubs, you would need to venture into the nearby municipalities of Breidenbach or Breidenstein.
What are the public transport options for reaching Perfstausee?
The provided information primarily highlights access by car, mentioning the B 253 federal road running west of the reservoir and free parking. Public transport options are not explicitly detailed. It is advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to Breidenbach or Breidenstein, and then assess the distance to the lake, which might require a walk or a short taxi ride.
What kind of wildlife can be observed at Perfstausee, especially in the nature reserve?
The "Im Wehr bei Breidenstein" nature reserve, located within the pre-reservoir area, is a protected habitat for various waterfowl. From the dedicated viewing platform, visitors can often spot kingfishers, dippers, ospreys, little grebes, and redshanks. The forested surroundings also host other local wildlife.
Are there any facilities for renting water sports equipment at Perfstausee?
Yes, during the summer months, facilities are available for renting stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats. This allows visitors to enjoy non-motorized water sports on the lake without needing to bring their own equipment.
What are the winter activities available at Perfstausee, and is it suitable for a winter hike?
Perfstausee is a year-round destination. The circular path around the lake remains accessible and is suitable for winter hikes, offering tranquil views of the frozen or partially frozen landscape. While water sports are not available, the area's natural beauty makes it a peaceful spot for walks. Always check local conditions for ice safety if considering walking on frozen surfaces, which is generally not recommended.
What is the typical duration required to walk around the entire Perfstausee lake?
The circular path around Perfstausee is approximately three kilometers long. For an average walker, this typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour at a leisurely pace. It's a relatively flat and well-maintained path, making it suitable for a quick stroll or a relaxed walk.