Top 20 Lakes around Haltern am See
Best lakes around Haltern am See are situated in a region known for its natural landscapes, including the Hohe Mark Nature Park. Haltern am See, a town with rights since 1289, is characterized by its significant water management infrastructure, primarily for drinking water supply. The area offers a variety of lakes that contribute to its recreational value. These bodies of water are integrated into a network of hiking, cycling, and walking trails.
Best lakes around Haltern am See
- The most popular lakes is Halterner Reservoir, a lake that serves as a significant source of drinking water and offers views of sailboats and lakeside restaurants. It is a large reservoir, suitable for short hikes around its perimeter and water sports.
- Another must-see spot is Hullerner Reservoir, a lake primarily reserved for quiet recreation. Visitors can expect a tranquil atmosphere, often less crowded than the Halterner Reservoir, making it suitable for peaceful walks and enjoying nature.
- Visitors also love North Shore Trail at the Halterner Reservoir, a trail that offers beautiful views and resting places around the lake. This 10 km circular route is popular for cycling and hiking, with paths in good condition.
- Haltern am See is known for its reservoirs, swimming lakes, and nature conservation lakes. The region features diverse bodies of water, from large reservoirs to recreational bathing lakes and protected natural areas.
- The lakes around Haltern am See are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4000 upvotes and over 300 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: June 8, 2026
Halterner Reservoir
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North Shore Trail at the Halterner Reservoir
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Hullerner Reservoir
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View of the Halterner Reservoir — North Side
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Ternscher Lake
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Tips from the Community
In spring 2024, the paths will be in very good condition and accessible to any bicycle.
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The trip around both reservoirs is really fun, but I could imagine that it could be crowded here when the weather is very nice.
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A wonderful bike ride along the canal then over the Ahsener Alle up to the fire lookout tower on the Rennberg-Flaesheim, this 140 m high mountain is not for weaklings as it was rated as medium difficulty. It went constantly up and down, sometimes easy, then again so difficult that I had to get off and push, then it went down rapidly again, with the handlebars being easy to hold on to. After all the rain it was quite slippery on rocky surfaces. Afterwards there was joy again along the Stever as far as you could still see it because of the flood and around the Haltelner Lake. The bikers will love the mountain, the others who are not so strong should avoid the mountain and take the local routes.
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On the circular route around the Haltern reservoir, the SteverLandRoute always offers fantastic views of the water and the boats. The SteverLandRoute is the family bike path in the Münsterland: Here, information boards for adults and information boards especially for children (!) provide information about the great project. There are a total of 14 hands-on stations along the route. If you like, you can use the children's discovery card to travel from station to station, collect coin impressions and become a Stever expert. Have a look at our collection :)
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The SteverLandRoute leads here directly along the Haltern reservoir and always allows great views of the large lake and the boats. The SteverLandRoute is the family bike path in the Münsterland: Here, information boards for adults and information boards especially for children (!) provide information about the great project. There are a total of 14 hands-on stations along the route. If you like, you can use the children's discovery card to travel from station to station, collect coin impressions and become a Stever expert. Have a look at our collection :)
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On this section of the SteverLandRoute, the route leads along a shady and wide footpath and cycle path along the north side of the Haltern reservoir and always offers great views of the blue lake and the boats. The SteverLandRoute is the family cycle path in Münsterland: Here, display boards for adults and information boards especially for children (!) provide information about the great project. There are a total of 14 participation stations along the route. Anyone who likes can use the children's discovery map to travel from station to station, collect coin impressions and become a Stever expert. Take a look at our collection :)
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The Hullern reservoir is the Stever dammed for drinking water production. This lake only has a "sandy beach" during long periods of drought, like here in August 2022. The SteverLandRoute runs along the banks of the Hullern and Halterner reservoirs and offers beautiful views of the lake from the cycle path, which is otherwise inaccessible. The fourth stage of the Steverland route always leads along the shore of the lake. The SteverlandRoute is the family bike path in Münsterland. Take a look at our collection! :)
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A very well-kept bike path at the Haltern reservoir. If you drive here you have some nice viewpoints to the marina on the north shore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Haltern am See unique?
The lakes around Haltern am See are unique for their dual role as vital drinking water reservoirs for the Ruhr area and popular recreational destinations. They offer a diverse landscape, from the bustling Halterner Reservoir with its leisure activities to the tranquil Hullerner Reservoir and the distinct Silberseen, catering to various interests from active sports to peaceful nature appreciation.
Which lakes are best for quiet recreation and nature appreciation?
For quiet recreation and nature appreciation, the Hullerner See and Silbersee III are ideal. Hullerner See offers a tranquil atmosphere, often less crowded than Halterner See, perfect for nature walks and cycling. Silbersee III, located in a water protection and landscape conservation area, features a 5 km circular trail, viewing platforms, and is dedicated to experiencing nature and wildlife. You can find more information about Silbersee III on Haltern Tourism.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming and sunbathing?
Yes, Silbersee II is particularly known for bathing and sunbathing. It boasts an almost 1 km long sandy beach with DLRG supervision, shallow water zones suitable for children, and facilities like a restaurant and sanitary amenities. It's a popular spot for a beach holiday feel. Note that an online ticket is required for entry, and pets are not allowed to bathe here. You can learn more about Silbersee II on Haltern Tourism.
What kind of outdoor activities can I enjoy around the lakes?
The lakes around Haltern am See offer a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, cycling, and mountain biking on numerous trails. For instance, there are many running trails, road cycling routes, and MTB trails in the area. On the water, boating and round trips are popular on the Halterner See, and windsurfing is permitted on Silbersee II.
Are there popular walking or cycling routes around the lakes?
Absolutely. The North Shore Trail at the Halterner Reservoir offers a popular 10 km circular route, ideal for cycling and hiking with beautiful views and resting places. The Hullerner See also has serene paths perfect for quiet walks and cycling. Silbersee III features a well-developed 5 km circular trail for nature walks, and the 'H2 - Lebendige Natur' cycle path connects various natural treasures around Haltern am See.
Can I go windsurfing or boating on the lakes?
Boating and round trips are popular on the Halterner Reservoir. While windsurfing is no longer permitted on Halterner See itself, it is a popular activity on Silbersee II. The passenger ship "Möwe" also sails regularly on Halterner See during the warmer months.
Are the lakes around Haltern am See family-friendly?
Yes, many areas around the lakes are very family-friendly. The Halterner Reservoir and Hullerner Reservoir offer easy trails suitable for families. Silbersee II is particularly family-friendly with its shallow water zones and sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for children to play and swim. The surrounding areas also feature amenities like a climbing forest and various dining options.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the lakes?
While specific regulations can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on many trails around the lakes, especially in the extensive forests of the Haard and Hohe Mark Nature Park. However, pets, including dogs, are not allowed to bathe in Silbersee II due to its designation as a swimming lake. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or designated bathing areas.
How can I access the lakes, and is parking available?
The lakes are generally well-accessible. Parking is available at various points around the major lakes like Halterner See and Silbersee II. Public transport options also connect to Haltern am See, from where you can reach the lakes. The region is integrated into a network of hiking, cycling, and walking trails, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike once you arrive.
What are the main differences between Halterner See and Hullerner See?
The Halterner See is the larger and more bustling of the two, offering a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, restaurants, and a popular circular path. It's a central leisure destination. The Hullerner See, located upstream, is known for its tranquil atmosphere and is often described as a 'secret tip' for those seeking peace and quiet, ideal for nature walks and cycling away from the crowds.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Haltern am See?
The lakes around Haltern am See are beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage or blooming nature. Summer is ideal for swimming at Silbersee II and enjoying water sports or lakeside dining, though it can be busier. Even in winter, the circular paths around the lakes offer scenic routes for peaceful walks.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in this region?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse recreational opportunities and the picturesque setting that provides an 'instant holiday feeling.' Many appreciate the well-maintained trails for hiking and cycling, the opportunity to watch sailboats on the Halterner Reservoir, and the peaceful atmosphere of places like the Hullerner Reservoir. The sandy beach at Silbersee II is also a major draw for those seeking relaxation and swimming.
What is the historical significance of the Halterner See?
The Halterner See, also known as the Halterner Stausee, was created in the 1930s by damming the Stever river and Mühlenbach. Its primary function has always been to serve as one of the largest reservoirs for drinking water extraction in the northern Ruhr area, supplying approximately one million people. This crucial water management infrastructure has significantly shaped the region, contributing to its recreational value and earning the city its decorative name 'Haltern am See'.
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