Best lakes around Uttenreuth offer diverse opportunities for recreation and relaxation in the surrounding region. While Uttenreuth itself does not host large lakes, the nearby areas feature notable examples like the Dechsendorfer Weiher and the Märchenweiher bei Atzelsberg. These bodies of water serve as popular local recreation areas, providing settings for various outdoor activities. The landscape is characterized by a mix of historic carp ponds and tranquil forest ponds, inviting visitors to explore natural settings.
Last updated: June 3, 2026
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The Dechsendorfer Weiher (Großer Bischofsweiher) and the almost equally large Kleiner Bischofsweiher were created in the Middle Ages by the Bamberg bishops as carp ponds. Due to the large water surfaces and the immediate surroundings, both ponds are of great importance for species and biotope protection, especially for water birds. The Dechsendorfer Weiher are a popular destination for those seeking local recreation due to their proximity and closeness to nature. The pond is used as a bathing pond; however, use was restricted by the algae problem. The bathing ban is also announced locally and by clearly visible signs or signs at the bathing area. The fields to the west of the ponds are in the Sandachse Franken nature conservation project and the forest areas of the Markwald directly adjacent to the east are protected forest. The entire area is a landscape conservation area. The Dechsendorfer Weiher was previously flowed through by the Röttenbach. This has now been created as a new Röttenbach over a length of 1.6 km from the intermediate dam inlet area to the downstream area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher. A near-natural watercourse is intended to improve the previously moderate water structure and create new habitats for the ecological diversity of nature. The lack of passability of the Röttenbach was restored. In the new Röttenbach, nutrients, sediments and also fish from the catchment area of the Dechsendorfer Weiher can be diverted around it into the downstream area of the pond. The pond is no longer in the main tributary but in the bypass and can therefore be managed in terms of the quality and quantity of the incoming water. With the targeted planting of aquatic plants, the pond was returned to a plant-dominated state. [ Source: https://erlangen.de/aktuelles/gewaesserschutz-dechsendorfer-weiher ]
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Currently free again. The beaver 🦫 had made himself comfortable under the forest path. Danger of collapse ⚠️
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Beautiful lake for rest, hiking, BBQ and camping
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The Großer Bischofsweiher, also known as the Dechsendorfer Weiher, is located in the north of the Dechsendorf district of Erlangen. The 0.35 square kilometer pond is part of a local recreation area and the largest of a whole chain of around 60 carp ponds. The shore length of the lake is 3.8 kilometers. Source: Wikipedia
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For me, the slave lake is the highlight of the landscaped lakes, the entire facility is very well maintained and landscaped perfectly for me, parking lots and seating areas in the immediate vicinity.
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If there is not too much going on at the tourist magnet "Kirschweg" you can have a nice picnic here 😄.
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Several lakes in the region are ideal for families. The Dechsendorfer Pond (Großer Bischofsweiher) offers spacious sunbathing lawns, playgrounds, and opportunities for swimming and boating. The Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg provides tranquil forest paths suitable for strollers, perfect for a peaceful family walk. The Great Bishop's Pond also features a small kiosk and playground for children.
The Dechsendorfer Pond (Großer Bischofsweiher) is a popular spot for swimming, offering clean water and designated bathing areas with showers and sanitary facilities. Bathing supervision is typically available on weekends and public holidays during the warmer months.
Yes, the region offers various walking and hiking opportunities. Around the Dechsendorfer Pond, there is an approximately 4 km long circular path, suitable for leisurely walks, jogging, or cycling. The Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg features comfortable forest paths ideal for extended walks. For more hiking options, explore the routes in our Hiking around Uttenreuth guide.
The Dechsendorfer Pond is excellent for water sports. Visitors can enjoy canoeing, rowing, paddle boating, windsurfing, and sailing. There are even two sailing clubs and a windsurfing club located directly on the lake, with boat rentals available.
The lakes are popular year-round, but the warmer months from May to September are ideal for swimming and water sports. The areas are also pleasant for walks in autumn and winter. In winter, when the water level is lowered and conditions allow, the Dechsendorfer Pond can even be used for ice skating and curling.
For a more tranquil experience away from bustling recreational areas, the Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg offers a serene environment. This collection of smaller ponds in a wooded area is perfect for quiet contemplation and gentle walks on comfortable forest paths.
Yes, the recreational area around the Dechsendorfer Pond includes kiosks offering food and drinks. The Great Bishop's Pond also has a small, well-sorted kiosk.
The circular path around the Dechsendorfer Pond is generally suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. However, please note that as of February 2026, parts of the circular path were temporarily closed due to damage from branch breakage for safety reasons. The forest paths around the Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg are also comfortable and suitable for buggies.
At the Dechsendorfer Pond, visitors can often observe swans and other local wildlife. The Märchenweiher near Atzelsberg, despite its nickname 'Swan Lakes,' is home to ducks and frogs, and the surrounding forest invites nature exploration.
The region is known for its historic carp ponds, with the Dechsendorfer Pond being the largest in a chain of approximately 60 such ponds. Some lakes, like Sklavensee (also known as Grubweiher), were artificially created in the 1970s when construction rubble blocked natural water flow, forming new bodies of water.
Yes, the circular path around the Dechsendorfer Pond is suitable for cycling. Additionally, you can find various cycling routes in the wider area, including options for road cycling and touring, by checking our Road Cycling Routes around Uttenreuth and Cycling around Uttenreuth guides.
Yes, the recreational area at the Dechsendorfer Pond offers designated barbecue areas available for free use on its spacious sunbathing lawns. It's a popular activity for visitors.


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