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Germany
Saxony-Anhalt
Harz Mountains

Nordharz

Top 20 Lakes around Nordharz

Lakes around Nordharz offer a blend of natural beauty and historical significance within the northern Harz foreland. The region features diverse water bodies, from historical reservoirs that supported mining operations to tranquil ponds and former quarry lakes. Visitors can explore areas known for their engineering marvels, unique geological formations, and serene natural settings, providing opportunities for hiking and relaxation.

Best lakes around Nordharz

  • The most popular lakes is Dam wall of the Eckertalsperre (HWN 001), a man-made monument that…

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Dam wall of the Eckertalsperre (HWN 001)

Highlight • Monument

A beautiful place steeped in history! A small information board on the well-kept white dam house gives interesting information.
On the Saxony-Anhalt side, various rocky outcrops and stones invite you …

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Zillierbach Reservoir

Highlight • Monument

Fantastic view over the reservoir and the dam. Very nice picnic area with stamp point.

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Always smoked trout, also perfect to take away.

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You have to have a little patience.

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East Shore of the Ecker Dam

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Just get off your bike and enjoy the view.

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Popular around Nordharz

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Tips from the Community

Klausi
July 27, 2024, Eckertalsperre Drinking Water Fountain

Very nice gesture from Harzwasserwerke.

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13

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After the outrageously high drink prices up on the Brocken, I was delighted to fill up the bottle here again. A bit slow, unfortunately, but you don't look behind the gills of a perch that's been given to you!

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11

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The Zilliertbachtalsperre is a popular photo opportunity, nearby you will find the Peterstein (HWN stamp site) with a great view of the dam. With the appropriate app you can capture the ghost stamp of the HWN on the dam wall.

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14

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nice resting place at the ponds, stamping point of the HWN, great in autumn when the colored trees are reflected in the water

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The HWN stamp 59 "Klostergrund Michaelstein" currently also houses the Harzer Klosterwanderweg stamp "Kloster Michaelstein".

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Nice place to stay and watch fish.

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Always a beautiful view

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Great rest area with a view over the dam, a nice stamping point of the HWN

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore around the lakes in Nordharz?

The region offers several historically significant sites. You can visit the Dam wall of the Eckertalsperre (HWN 001), which marks the former inner-German border. Another notable site is the Ponds at Michaelstein Monastery Grounds (HWN 59), known for its historical context and smoked trout. Further afield, the Oderteich is Germany's oldest dam, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Harz Water Management System.

Are there family-friendly lakes or activities in the Nordharz area?

Yes, the Zillierbach Reservoir offers a nice picnic area and fantastic views, making it suitable for families. The Ilsestrandbad Wasserleben is also a popular family-friendly open-air swimming pool with amenities like a snack bar and free loungers, perfect for summer recreation.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Nordharz?

The area around Nordharz's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including easy and moderate options. For example, explore routes like 'From Stapelburg through the Eckertal' or 'Ilse Fish Ladder – Ilse Crossing'. Cyclists can enjoy gravel biking routes such as 'Wernigerode Old Town – View of Wernigerode Castle loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide and gravel biking guide for Nordharz.

Where can I find unique natural features among the lakes?

The Blue Lake (Blauer See), located between Hüttenrode and Rübeland, is famous for its striking turquoise-blue water, especially vibrant in spring due to its high lime content. This former limestone quarry offers a unique natural spectacle and interesting hiking trails.

Are there opportunities for fishing at the lakes in Nordharz?

Yes, the Pond in Veckenstedt, within the Nordharz municipality, is particularly appealing to fishing enthusiasts. It offers opportunities to catch various species, including pike, carp, trout, sturgeon, and striped bass, and also provides services like a smokehouse and fresh fish sales.

What are the best lakes for scenic views and photography?

The Zillierbach Reservoir offers fantastic views over the reservoir and dam. The Rappbode Dam, as Germany's largest and highest dam, provides breathtaking panoramic views of the expansive reservoir and surrounding landscape, ideal for photography.

What is special about the Oderteich?

The Oderteich, located in the Harz National Park, is historically significant as Germany's oldest dam, built between 1715 and 1722 for mining operations. It's part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Upper Harz Water Management System. A path encircles the pond, offering scenic hikes through unique moorland spruce forest.

Can I swim in any of the lakes or water bodies in Nordharz?

Yes, the Ilsestrandbad Wasserleben is an open-air swimming pool within the municipality of Nordharz, popular for swimming and summer recreation. It's known for its cleanliness and family-friendly atmosphere, offering amenities and even water gymnastics courses.

What do visitors enjoy most about the Eckertalsperre?

Visitors appreciate the Dam wall of the Eckertalsperre (HWN 001) for its historical significance as a former inner-German border crossing and the beautiful views it offers. The benches along the trail provide great spots to relax and enjoy the reservoir, especially during the evening sun.

Are there any lakes in the region that are part of the Harz hiking badge system?

Yes, the Ponds at Michaelstein Monastery Grounds (HWN 59) serve as a stamp point for the monastery hiking trail. Additionally, the Middle Grumbacher Pond is a stamp point for the popular Harz hiking badge, offering serene settings for quiet hikes.

What is the best time to visit the Blue Lake for its vibrant color?

The Blue Lake (Blauer See) is renowned for its striking turquoise-blue water, which is particularly vibrant in spring. Its color can vary with the seasons and may even dry up during periods of low water, so spring is generally the best time to witness its most captivating hue.

What amenities are available at the Ilsestrandbad Wasserleben?

The Ilsestrandbad Wasserleben offers a range of amenities for a comfortable visit, including a snack bar, free loungers, umbrella rentals, and warm showers. It also provides early morning swimming options, regular operating hours, and an evening tariff, along with water gymnastics courses.

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

ThaleOberharz am BrockenHarzgerodeWernigerodeOberharz am BrockenIlsenburg (Harz)SchierkeIlsenburgAlexisbadQuedlinburgBallenstedtFalkenstein/HarzDitfurtOsterwieckHalberstadtWegelebenSelke-AueHederslebenHarslebenHuySchwanebeckGroß QuenstedtOberes SelketalDam KönigshütteRappbodetalsperreDam WendefurthHassel-VorsperreHuy

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