Top 20 Lakes around Hattingen
Lakes around Hattingen are primarily defined by their close proximity to the Ruhr reservoirs, offering significant recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by its riverine landscape, with the Ruhr flowing through, leading to the creation of large artificial lakes. These bodies of water serve as central points for outdoor activities, contributing to the area's natural appeal and providing diverse landscapes for exploration.
Best lakes around Hattingen
- The most popular lakes is View of the north shore of Lake Kemnade, a viewpoint that offers excellent views of the lake. The cycle path here is separated from pedestrian and inline skating routes.
- Another must-see spot is View of Villa Hügel Over Lake Baldeney, a viewpoint and historical site. From the south bank, visitors can see Villa Hügel on the north bank and sailing boats on the water.
- Visitors also love Lake Kemnade, a lake and natural area. This Ruhr reservoir is a popular destination for various land and water sports.
- Hattingen is known for its large Ruhr reservoirs, including Lake Kemnade and Lake Baldeney. These lakes offer extensive recreational facilities and are integrated into the region's green landscape.
- The lakes around Hattingen are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 7000 upvotes and 240 photos shared across 14 highlights.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
View of Villa Hügel Over Lake Baldeney
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Lake Kemnade
Highlight • Lake
But it is undoubtedly most beautiful here in the early morning hours, when you can really enjoy the peace and quiet and let your bike run. And a sunrise on the lake is always something particularly beautiful. The "culinary" tip on the lake: The same ice cream van has been parked by the parking lots for years, refreshing you with delicious ice cream in the summer.
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Lake Baldeney
Highlight • Lake
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Kemnader See Weir
Highlight • Bridge
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Baldeneysee Weir
Highlight • Structure
Here at the dam, you can take a short break and simply enjoy the beautiful scenery. If you'd like a longer break, a quick detour to Werden's old town is recommended.
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Tips from the Community
The weir, which dams the largest of the six Ruhr lakes, belongs to the Ruhrverband. Even in times when sewage treatment plants take over the largest part of the water purification, the lake still fulfills its function in fine purification. The weir includes a lock and, since 2020, a fish lift to enable the animals to migrate, e.g. to find spawning grounds. The Ruhrverband has set up an information point on the weir on this subject, which is open on weekends during the summer months.
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From 1873 to 1945, Villa Hügel in Essen was the home of the Krupp family. With its 269 rooms in the middle of a 28-hectare park above Lake Baldeney, it is far more than the residence of a well-known entrepreneurial family - it is a symbol of the age of Germany's industrialization.
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The weir seen from the bridge has four openings closed with hydraulically operated flaps. Next to the weir are the fish ladder and the boat alley. In the case of large floods, the entire system is flooded. In 2011, a hydroelectric power station was built on the right side of the weir. The entire Ruhr flows through the power plant and enables electricity to be generated by around 3.6 million kWh annually.
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The weir has four openings that are closed with hydraulically driven flaps. Next to the weir are the fish ladder and the boat alley. In the case of large floods, the entire system is flooded. In 2011, a hydroelectric power station was built on the right side of the weir. The entire Ruhr flows through the power plant and enables electricity to be generated by around 3.6 million kWh annually.
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ESPECIALLY IN SUMMER EVENINGS you can experience spectacular MOODS AND SUNSETS with wonderful RELEXIONS and LIGHT PLAYS on the WATER from here. Then the screeching WILD GEESE often fly over the lake in a V-shaped formation. And on top of the hill, the top floor of VILLA HÜGEL shines illuminated by the sun like a GEM....
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Nice way along the Baldeneysee. Also very popular with cyclists and skaters on weekends and in the afternoons.
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The Baldenessee has a beautiful location and is rightly a tourist hotspot.
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The Baldeneysee is the recreational address for the city of Essen and the surrounding area. You are in a jiffy in a beautiful landscape. From water sports to hiking and cycling, there is something for everyone here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main lakes around Hattingen?
The primary lakes associated with Hattingen are the Kemnader See and the Baldeneysee. These are significant Ruhr reservoirs that offer extensive recreational opportunities and are central to the region's outdoor activities.
What makes the lakes around Hattingen unique?
The lakes around Hattingen are unique because they are part of the Ruhr reservoirs, created to regulate water levels and improve water quality. They serve as major leisure and sports hubs, integrating natural landscapes with diverse recreational facilities. For example, Lake Kemnade is the youngest of the six Ruhr reservoirs and a popular destination for various land and water sports.
Are there good walking and cycling paths around the lakes?
Yes, both the Kemnader See and Baldeneysee offer well-maintained paths. Around Lake Kemnade, you'll find separate paved paths for pedestrians, inline skaters, and cyclists. The cycle path around the lake is approximately 10 kilometers long. The Baldeneysee also features continuously developed footpaths and cycle paths along its banks, including connections to the popular Ruhr Valley Cycle Route.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
You can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. On the water, sailing, surfing, and boating are popular, with boat rentals available at Kemnader See. On land, there are extensive cycling and hiking opportunities. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Riverside path along the Ruhr' or 'Lake Baldeney' which are part of the Cycling around Hattingen guide. For hiking, consider trails like 'Miners’ Prayer House, Witten' or 'View of Kemnader See' from the Mountain Hikes around Hattingen guide.
Are the lakes around Hattingen family-friendly?
Absolutely. Both Kemnader See and Baldeneysee are considered very family-friendly. They offer playgrounds, easy walking paths suitable for all ages, and various leisure facilities. Highlights like View of Villa Hügel Over Lake Baldeney and View of the north shore of Lake Kemnade are noted as family-friendly, providing pleasant environments for outings.
Can I find historical sites or viewpoints near the lakes?
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical interest. Near Kemnader See, you can access historical sites like Burg Blankenstein and the Stiepeler Dorfkirche. The Baldeneysee offers views of Villa Hügel, a significant historical site, from its south bank, as seen from the View of Villa Hügel Over Lake Baldeney highlight. The Baldeneysee Weir itself is also a historical structure with an information point about its function and the fish lift.
What is the best time to visit the lakes near Hattingen?
The lakes are popular year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for water sports and enjoying the outdoor cafes and events. The early morning hours are particularly beautiful for peaceful walks or bike rides, especially around Lake Kemnade, offering quiet moments and stunning sunrises.
Are there places to eat or drink around the lakes?
Yes, both lakes have numerous gastronomic options. Around Kemnader See, you'll find beer gardens, cafés, and restaurants. The Baldeneysee also offers various culinary experiences, making it easy to find a spot for a meal or a refreshing drink during your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Hattingen?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse recreational opportunities, the well-maintained paths for cycling and walking, and the scenic views. The separation of paths for cyclists, pedestrians, and inline skaters around Lake Kemnade is highly appreciated, as is the ability to watch wildlife in peace during quieter times. The combination of water sports, land activities, and natural beauty makes these lakes a beloved destination.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport?
The lakes are generally well-connected and accessible. The Kemnader See is situated between Bochum, Hattingen, and Witten, making it reachable from various points. The Baldeneysee, while primarily in Essen, is linked to Hattingen via popular cycling routes and the shared Ruhr river system, implying good regional connectivity.
Are there opportunities for swimming in the lakes?
While the water quality of Kemnader See is considered good, direct wild swimming might be restricted. However, the Freizeitbad Heveney (leisure pool) near Kemnader See provides swimming opportunities, and the StrandDeck offers a beach club experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the water in designated areas.
Are the paths around the lakes suitable for inline skating?
Yes, specifically at Lake Kemnade, there is an illuminated inline skating track, separate from pedestrian and cycling paths, making it an excellent spot for inline skaters.
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