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Germany
Hesse
Regierungsbezirk Kassel

Werra-Meißner-Kreis

Top 20 Lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis

Best lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis are found in North Hesse, Germany, nestled within a low mountain landscape. The region features several lakes, many of which are former gravel quarries transformed into recreational areas. These bodies of water offer opportunities for water sports, cycling, and walking, often with views of the surrounding natural features. The area combines natural beauty with local folklore and historical context.

Best lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis

  • The most popular lakes is Werratal Lake, a lake that is a 104 to 110-hectare man-made lake, created from a gravel quarry. It is a popular spot for water sports, including sailing, windsurfing, rowing, and canoeing, and features a 7 km long, barrier-free paved path around its perimeter.
  • Another must-see spot is Lake Kalbe, a lake offering views and insights into the history of open-cast mining in the region. Visitors can find information boards explaining the area's industrial past.
  • Visitors also love Frau Holle Pond and Frau Holle Sculpture, a lake steeped in local folklore. This pond on the Hoher Meißner mountain is associated with the Brothers Grimm fairy tale of Mother Hulda and is considered an entrance to her underground realm.
  • Werra-Meißner-Kreis is known for its diverse lakes, including large recreational lakes, smaller ponds with historical significance, and those formed from former mining operations. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those suitable for active recreation to tranquil spots for relaxation.
  • The lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1100 upvotes and more than 30 photos shared.

Last updated: May 20, 2026

Werra Cycle Path near Grebendorf

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Very beautiful and easy to ride cycle path between Grebendorf and Jestädt, which leads past the Grebendorf recreational area and offers great lake views.

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Werratal Lake

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The Werratalsee is nestled in the beautiful low mountain landscape at the foot of the Eschwege Leuchtberge. The view extends to the Hessian Switzerland, the Plesse and the Hoher Meißner. It offers an ideal leisure center for young and old. Simply beautiful 🍂🦊.

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Lake Kalbe

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In addition to a beautiful view, there are also a few things worth knowing about open-cast mining in the region.

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The stories overlap at the Frau-Holle-Teich on the Hoher Meißner. Even in winter, this place exudes something magical. Everywhere you can read countless legends. The pond here is considered the entrance to the underground realm of Mother Holle. If you are there at the right time and the wind is good, with a little luck you can hear the singing of Frau Holles and much, much more.

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Werratalsee Beach (Schwebda)

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Around the lake there are large sunbathing areas that invite you to have a picnic. Unfortunately, the water quality is not always such that you can swim.

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Meinhardsee

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Nice view of the Meinhardsee on the bike path near Eschwege

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Red Lake

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Be sure to read the notice board! Very interesting, what happened to the lake ...

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Bruchteiche Ponds

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These two ponds were created from 1910 by dredging. In the background the small hunting-castle Rothestein.

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Hellkopfsee

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A very beautiful lake with very clear water. A rest is always worthwhile.

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Beautiful little marina from the sailing club on Lake Werratal.

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Tips from the Community

Wandertourist
October 20, 2025, Meinhardsee

Although various prohibition signs restrict access to Lake Meinhard, which is part of the local campsite, there are still some beautiful views with benches overlooking the former gravel pit in the Werra Valley.

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Radeljunge
July 30, 2025, Meinhardsee

Beautiful lake, which is primarily intended for fishing.

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Sebastian
April 3, 2025, Meinhardsee

A great, asphalted cycle path that leads past the fishing ponds of the ASV Eschwege and the Meinhardsee.

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Randi S
February 6, 2025, Meinhardsee

Absolutely recommended. Whether on foot or by bike. 😎

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Nordhesse
January 20, 2025, Bruchteiche Ponds

The Bruchteiche near Bad Sooden-Allendorf are ideal for leisurely circular walks (approx. 2km). You can also include them in the longer P7 circuit (15km). Numerous benches invite you to linger and enjoy the banks of the pond.

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Unfortunately, in many places it smells very strongly of foul gases or similar.

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Nebusaradan
August 21, 2024, Werratalsee

Be sure to take a tour around the Werrasee

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Sebastian
August 20, 2024, Werratalsee

Beautiful lake, but there are blue-green algae in it

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Frequently Asked Questions

What activities can I enjoy at the lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis?

The lakes offer a variety of activities. At the Werratal Lake, you can enjoy water sports like sailing, windsurfing, rowing, and canoeing. There's also a 7 km barrier-free path perfect for cycling, walking, jogging, and inline skating. Many lakes, including Lake Kalbe and Frau Holle Pond, are excellent for scenic walks and enjoying nature.

Are there family-friendly lakes in the Werra-Meißner-Kreis region?

Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Werratal Lake features two bathing beaches, the Ostufer in Schwebda and the Südufer near Eschwege, both with diverse playgrounds for children. The 7 km paved path around the lake is also great for family bike rides or walks. Frau Holle Pond offers a magical experience with its folklore, appealing to children's imaginations.

Which lakes are good for swimming and sunbathing?

The Werratal Lake is the primary destination for swimming and sunbathing. It has two main bathing beaches: the Ostufer in Schwebda, which includes a grass area, a sand beach, and a dog beach, and the Südufer, also with a sand beach. The Werratalsee Beach (Schwebda) is a popular spot for this.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis?

Yes, the Werratal Lake is dog-friendly, particularly at the Ostufer (east shore) in Schwebda, which features a dedicated dog beach. The paved path around the lake is also suitable for walks with your dog.

What are the best lakes for hiking or walking trails?

The Werratal Lake offers a 7 km long, barrier-free paved path ideal for walking. The area around Frau Holle Pond also has great, well-signposted hiking trails. For more extensive hiking, consider exploring routes near the lakes, such as the 'Heldrastein Premium Trail P6' or the 'TOP-Border hiking trail Schifflersgrund', which can be found in the Hiking in Werra-Meißner-Kreis guide.

Are there any lakes with historical or cultural significance?

Absolutely. The Frau Holle Pond on the Hoher Meißner mountain is deeply rooted in local folklore, associated with the Brothers Grimm fairy tale of Mother Hulda. It's considered an entrance to her underground realm and exudes a magical aura. Lake Kalbe offers insights into the region's open-cast mining history, with information boards explaining its industrial past.

What natural features or viewpoints can I find around the lakes?

The lakes are set within a picturesque low mountain landscape. From Werratal Lake, you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding 'Hessian Switzerland,' the Plesse, and the Hoher Meißner. The northwestern area of the Werratalsee is also a bird sanctuary. Lake Kalbe provides impressive views, and the Bruchteiche Ponds offer a wonderfully romantic and quiet setting close to the city.

Are there accessible trails for wheelchairs or strollers near the lakes?

Yes, the Werratal Lake features a 7 km long, barrier-free paved path around its perimeter, making it suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and anyone seeking an easy, accessible route. The Hellkopfsee is also noted as wheelchair accessible.

What is the best time to visit the lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis?

The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the warmer months from spring to autumn are ideal for water sports, cycling, and enjoying the beaches at Werratal Lake. The natural beauty and trails around lakes like Frau Holle Pond are captivating even in winter, offering a different, magical atmosphere.

Are there options for cycling around the lakes?

Yes, cycling is very popular. The Werratal Lake has a 7 km long, barrier-free paved path perfect for cycling. Additionally, the region offers various cycling routes, including sections of the Werra Cycle Path, which can be explored further in the Gravel biking in Werra-Meißner-Kreis guide and Road Cycling Routes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis guide.

What makes the Werratalsee a popular destination?

The Werratal Lake is popular due to its diverse offerings. It's a large man-made lake with extensive water sports facilities, two sandy beaches, and a 7 km barrier-free path for various activities. Its scenic location, close to Eschwege's historic old town, and the presence of the 'Werranixe' excursion ship add to its appeal as a significant recreational hub.

Are there any lesser-known lakes worth visiting in the region?

Beyond the main attractions, lakes like Meinhardsee, Red Lake, and the Bruchteiche Ponds offer tranquil beauty and unique perspectives. The Bruchteiche Ponds, for instance, were created by dredging and feature a water treading basin, providing a peaceful escape close to the city.

Most popular routes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis

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Didn’t find what you were looking for?

Find the best lakes in Werra-Meißner-Kreis per region:

Neu-EichenbergGroßalmerodeBad Sooden-AllendorfHessisch LichtenauWanfriedWehretalSontraHerleshausenEschwegeWitzenhausenRinggauMeißnerWaldkappelWerratalseeHirschbergBerkatalMeinhard

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Still not found your perfect lake in Werra-Meißner-Kreis? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

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