Best lakes around Renchen are found in the surrounding Ortenaukreis district, as Renchen itself is situated in the foothills of the northern Black Forest. This region offers several appealing options for waterside recreation. These nearby lakes feature good water quality and various amenities, making them popular destinations for swimming, relaxation, and other activities.
Last updated: September 26, 2026
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Greffern is a district of Rheinmünster. Further information can be found at https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greffern
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The bronze MUMMELSEENIXE sits alone on the rock, not far from the shore. She turns her back to the walker on the shore and looks out over the water. A plaque on the shore provides brief information about the legendary/mythical origin of the superstition that was widespread in earlier times about the existence of witches, fairies, mermaids (and similar mythical figures). The plaque then surprisingly contains a reference to the biblical letter from the Apostle Paul to the church in Corinth with an excerpt from the "Song of Songs".
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Great rest area with relaxing waterfall sounds in the background
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Greffern and the surrounding area, always worth a bike trip and there is always something going on here when the weather is nice 👀✌️😉
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Great view from the plateau at the Grindehütte into the Rhine Valley.
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Brilliant view and brilliant sunsets
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Very surrounded figure at Mummelsee
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Several lakes in the surrounding Ortenaukreis district are popular for swimming and various recreational activities. Mummelsee offers a beautiful setting for walks, while Gifiz Lake near Offenburg is known for excellent swimming, jogging, boat rentals, and beach volleyball. Pappelwald Lake is an insider tip for swimming in a serene forest setting, and Vältinschollensee (Meißenheimer gravel pit) is officially rated for its excellent water quality. Max-Jordan Lake Urloffen also provides a tempting spot for bathers with a sandy beach.
Yes, there are several options for hiking. Mummelsee features a beautiful circular hiking trail, also known as the 'Art Path,' where you can discover various highlights including the Mummelsee Mermaid Statue. For more extensive hiking, you can explore the many running and gravel biking routes in the wider Renchen area, which often pass by or offer views of the lakes. You can find detailed routes in the Running Trails around Renchen guide or the Gravel biking around Renchen guide.
Yes, several nearby lakes are suitable for swimming. Gifiz Lake is a highly regarded swimming lake. Pappelwald Lake officially permits swimming, and its water quality is regularly monitored. Vältinschollensee is classified as a 'bathing place' with excellent water quality, and Max-Jordan Lake Urloffen is also a popular spot for bathers with a sandy beach.
Many lakes in the region are family-friendly. Mummelsee is a great option with its easy circular walk and the legendary mermaid statue, appealing to children. Highlights like Greffern Marina and Berghotel Mummelsee also offer amenities suitable for families. Lakes like Gifiz Lake provide various activities such as boat rentals and beach volleyball, making them ideal for a family day out.
The region offers several unique features. Mummelsee is famous for its old legend of mermaids and dwarfs, and you can see the Mummelsee Mermaid Statue as part of its 'Art Path.' The Glashütte Reservoir is notable for its outwardly curved dam wall, which is a unique engineering feature. Pappelwald Lake is cherished for its serene forest setting.
Yes, especially around the more popular lakes. At Mummelsee, you'll find the Berghotel Mummelsee, which includes a restaurant, cafe, and tourist shop. Greffern Marina also offers a boat restaurant with a nice atmosphere. Other lakes like Gifiz Lake often have barbecue areas and facilities for visitors.
Beyond hiking, the area around Renchen's lakes is great for various outdoor sports. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, running, and gravel biking. Gifiz Lake, for example, is popular for jogging, boat rentals, and beach volleyball. The MTB Trails around Renchen guide and Gravel biking around Renchen guide offer many options for cyclists.
Yes, Mummelsee is noted as being wheelchair accessible, making its circular path suitable for pushchairs as well. This allows a wider range of visitors to enjoy the lake's beauty and its legendary 'Art Path.'
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, particularly from spring to autumn, when activities like swimming, hiking, and boat rentals are in full swing. Autumn offers beautiful fall foliage around the forest lakes. While specific winter activities aren't detailed, some lakes like Mummelsee can offer a serene, mystical atmosphere in colder seasons, though amenities might be limited.
Pappelwald Lake, located near Berghaupten, is considered an insider tip. It's a small forest lake where swimming is officially permitted, and its water quality is regularly monitored. It offers a serene natural setting away from the more crowded spots, despite the proximity of a federal highway.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse recreational opportunities, from swimming and relaxation to hiking and cycling. The legendary atmosphere of Mummelsee and its 'Art Path' is a highlight for many. The good water quality of lakes like Gifiz and Vältinschollensee is also highly appreciated, as are the peaceful natural surroundings of places like Pappelwald Lake. The community has contributed over 2900 photos and 4700 upvotes for highlights in this area, reflecting its popularity.
For popular destinations like Mummelsee, there are numerous parking spaces available, often associated with facilities like the Berghotel Mummelsee. For other lakes, parking availability can vary, but generally, popular swimming lakes like Gifiz Lake will have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.


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