Lakes around Dörentrup offer diverse natural landscapes within the Lippe district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This municipality features several water bodies, including the notable Pottkuhle, which is integrated into a landscape park. The area provides local recreation opportunities with paths and natural habitats. Visitors can explore a mix of renatured former industrial sites and natural ponds.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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The "Holzhäuser sinkhole" is one of several water-filled sinkholes in rocks of the Upper Buntsandstein. It was formed more than 300 years ago as a result of underground leaching of Zechstein rock salt. Its diameter is 50 to 60 m and its volume is around 125,000 m³. The smaller double sinkhole, about 100 m further south, consists of two touching funnels and has a volume of about 55,000 and 20,000 m³.
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With a group you can rest in the hut.
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This really is a huge sinkhole.
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It is definitely worth taking a look into this hole.
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This sinkhole is exceptionally large and impressive.
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wonderful view there
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Dörentrup features several notable water bodies. The Forester Ponds offer a local recreation area with three fire ponds, a wet biotope, and a natural forest cell, complete with a wild boar enclosure. The Pottkuhlenteich, a former clay mining area now undergoing renaturation, is popular with anglers and has a 4.5 km trail around it. Additionally, the Upper sinkhole (Holzhäuser sinkhole funnel) is an impressive natural geological monument worth observing.
Yes, several areas are well-suited for families. The Forester Ponds are a designated local recreation area with amenities like a wild boar enclosure and a shelter with barbecue facilities. The Pottkuhle area, part of the Dörentrup Landscape Park, is designed for relaxation with paths suitable for strollers and a new playground for younger visitors.
The Pottkuhlenteich, for instance, was originally a clay pit with a unique ropeway connection to a factory, a method of transport unparalleled in Lippe at the time. After its closure, a section was briefly used as a landfill. Efforts are underway to highlight this history through informational displays within the Dörentrup Landscape Park.
The region around Dörentrup's lakes offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including easy trails like the 'NABU Nature Trail Quality Trail' or the 'Pottkuhlenteich – Disc Golf Park Dörentrup loop'. For more challenging hikes, explore routes from the Hiking around Dörentrup guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Steinberg Viewpoint (Former Missile Base) – Poacher's Route loop' available in the MTB Trails around Dörentrup guide.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. The Pottkuhlenteich is particularly favored by anglers and is known for a rich diversity of fish, including tench, carp (some up to 20 kg), eel, pike, zander, and catfish. Remember to check local regulations and obtain any necessary permits for fishing in the Lippe district.
Yes, there are well-maintained walking paths. The Pottkuhlenteich features an approximately 4.5 km long trail around its perimeter. The Dörentrup Landscape Park, which includes the Pottkuhle, is continuously being enhanced with improved, barrier-free paths, making it accessible for various visitors.
Beyond the lakes themselves, you can discover unique natural phenomena. The Upper sinkhole (Holzhäuser sinkhole funnel) is an exceptionally large and impressive natural monument. Additionally, the Pferdebrunnen Spring is a small, inconspicuous pond known for its many pulsating sources and a constant temperature of approximately 12°C, preventing it from freezing even in winter.
Yes, at the Forester Ponds, there is a shelter with barbecue facilities. These can be reserved for celebrations through the city of Lemgo. This area is designed as a recreational spot, offering convenience for visitors.
The Pottkuhle, integrated into the Dörentrup Landscape Park, is a tranquil recreation area. It offers paths suitable for strollers, a new playground, and serves as a habitat and breeding ground for numerous animal species. Ongoing projects aim to enhance the area with improved, barrier-free paths, a lakeside terrace, and attractive seating areas, making it a central recreational hub.
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The Forester Ponds are loved for being a wonderful place to relax, with active wild boars and convenient barbecue facilities. The Pottkuhlenteich is valued for its beauty, surrounding trees, and popularity among anglers. The unique geological features like the Upper sinkhole also draw significant interest.
Absolutely. You can find several easy hiking routes that pass by or around the lakes. For example, the 'NABU Nature Trail Quality Trail' and the 'Pottkuhlenteich – Disc Golf Park Dörentrup loop' are both considered easy. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Dörentrup guide.


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