Top 20 Lakes around Menden

The lakes around Menden are primarily artificial reservoirs in the Sauerland region, which serve as both drinking water supplies and popular leisure areas. You'll find large, well-developed reservoirs like Sorpesee and Möhnesee, smaller bathing lakes such as Esmecke-Stausee, and unique local ponds like the Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden.

Many lakes offer extensive water sports. At Sorpesee, you can enjoy diving, rowing, sailing, surfing, and rent canoes, pedal boats, or SUP boards. Möhnesee also provides a wide range of water sports and has three lidos for swimming. The Esmecke-Stausee is a popular bathing lake with consistently warm water.

Yes, the region offers numerous trails. Around Möhnesee, there are five signposted circular cycling routes and many hiking trails through the Arnsberg Forest. Sorpesee features easy cycling routes along its shores, including the 'Randweg'. For more options, you can explore various hiking routes and cycling tours around Menden.

Sorpesee is very family-friendly, with adventure trails, promenades, and playgrounds, such as those found along the Sorpesee Promenade. Möhnesee offers three lidos for swimming, and the Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden, has a large, covered barbecue hut that can be rented for gatherings.

The View of the Blue Lagoon in the Asbeck Quarry offers panoramic views of an 80-meter deep quarry lake with intensely colored water. Möhnesee features a 650-meter long, 40-meter high dam that is over 100 years old, and the Möhnesee Tower provides panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Arnsberg Forest.

The Hexenteich (Witch Pond), Menden, has a unique atmosphere and a historical, albeit dark, past associated with witch hunts. The Sorpe Dam is a significant man-made monument, representing a major construction project in Europe from 1926 to 1935.

The lakes are popular year-round, but spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, and enjoying the promenades and outdoor activities. Autumn offers beautiful foliage for hiking, while winter can provide a serene landscape, though some facilities might have reduced hours.

Yes, well-developed lakes like Sorpesee and Möhnesee have promenades with refreshment stops, cafes, and restaurants. Sorpesee even offers unique accommodation options like tree houses. You'll find various options for dining and lodging in the towns surrounding these popular lakes.

The lakes are generally well-connected. While Menden itself doesn't host large natural lakes, it's ideally situated near several notable reservoirs. Sorpesee, Möhnesee, and Seilersee are easily accessible by car, with parking facilities available. Public transport options may vary, so it's advisable to check local schedules for specific routes.

The Seilersee, located in Iserlohn, is a popular local recreation area due to its surrounding greenery and forests. It features a 1.6 km long hiking trail around it and offers various nearby leisure options, including an ice rink, a sports and brine pool, tennis courts, and a mini-golf course.

Fishing is permitted at several lakes. Sorpesee is noted as a great spot for fishing. At Esmecke-Stausee, fishing is permitted for guests of the Eslohe vacation region. Specific permits and regulations may apply, so it's recommended to check with local authorities or tourism offices before planning a fishing trip.

The Hennesee, near Meschede, is a scenic reservoir known for its blend of nature, activities, and culture. It offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, swimming, and boating, including excursions on the 'white fleet'. The Henne-Boulevard and 'Himmelstreppe' provide pleasant walks connecting the lake to Meschede town center.