Top 20 Lakes around Bestensee

For swimming, the Todnitzsee offers a certified bathing area with excellent water quality. The Pätzer Vordersee also has a natural bathing area with a sandy beach. Another popular choice is the Kiessee, known for its flat sandy area, clear water, and modern facilities. The Krummer Lake also features a natural bathing beach with a children's playground.

Yes, the region offers numerous hiking trails. You can find a scenic 16-kilometer circular trail connecting the Pätzer Vordersee and Pätzer Hintersee. A longer 18-kilometer circular path also encompasses both Pätzer lakes. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Bestensee, including trails like the 'Krummer Lake – Krummer Lake loop' or the 'View of Tonteich – Großer Tonteich near Zeesen loop'.

The lakes around Bestensee are characterized by diverse natural landscapes. You'll find a mix of forest-water scenery, extensive low-lying forests, fens, and reed beds. The Krummer See (Sutschketal Nature Reserve) is situated within a nature reserve, offering unexpected landscapes. The Pätzer Vordersee and Pätzer Hintersee are integral parts of the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park, featuring significant ground moraine formations like the Kiesberg and Radeberge hills on the eastern shore of Pätzer Hintersee.

Many lakes are suitable for families. The Krummer Lake has a natural bathing beach with a children's playground and sports facilities. The Pätzer Vordersee also features a large playground near its bathing area. The Kiessee is another family-friendly option with a flat sandy area and clear water.

Yes, several lakes are recognized angling spots. The Todnitzsee is popular for angling. The Pätzer Vordersee is also a popular spot for anglers, with species such as eel, pike, zander, and roach. The Großer Tonteich near Zeesen is also used for fishing.

The lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. Summer is ideal for swimming and bathing, with many lakes having designated areas. Spring and autumn are excellent for hiking and enjoying the changing foliage, especially around the Pätzer lakes within the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park. Winter can offer peaceful walks around the frozen landscapes, though specific activities might be limited.

Yes, the region offers cycling opportunities. The 65 km long 'Hofjagdweg' cycle route runs past the Krummer Lake. You can also find various MTB trails around Bestensee, such as the 'Lake Pätzer – Pätzer See loop' or the 'Cycle path through the Skabyer Torfgraben conservation area – Todnitzsee loop'.

The Großer Tonteich near Zeesen is unique because it is not of natural origin. It was created around 1900 from a former clay pit, which later filled with groundwater. It's known for its peaceful setting, good water quality, and a hiking trail around its perimeter.

While specific public transport routes to each lake vary, Bestensee itself is accessible. From there, local buses or walking/cycling routes can connect you to the various lakes. For detailed planning, it's recommended to check local transport schedules.

Yes, several lakes are located within or border protected areas. The Krummer See is situated within the Sutschketal Nature Reserve. Both the Pätzer Vordersee and Pätzer Hintersee are integral parts of the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park and its associated landscape protection area. The Pätzer Hintersee also features significant moorland areas secured as nature reserves on its southern shore.

The depths vary among the lakes. The Todnitzsee has a maximum depth of 6 meters. The Pätzer Vordersee is deeper, reaching a maximum of 16.2 meters. The Pätzer Hintersee is generally shallower, with a consistent depth of 3 to 5 meters and a maximum of 4 meters. The Krummer Lake is about ten feet deep at its lowest point.