Top 16 Lakes around Irtenberger Wald
Best lakes around Irtenberger Wald are found within a significant natural forest area southwest of Würzburg, Germany. This region is primarily known for its extensive deciduous forests and high ecological value, being part of the Natura 2000 network. While streams and ditches originate here, the area features unique water bodies, including the notable Blutsee, an integral part of a nature reserve. The Irtenberger Wald offers well-maintained trails for experiencing its biodiversity and natural beauty.
Best lakes around Irtenberger Wald
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Last updated: August 6, 2026
Laichsee in the Steinbach Valley
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Blutsee-Moor Nature Reserve
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Schwemmsee Natural Monument
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Bat Trail at Burkarder See
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Until the mid-20th century, the so-called Burkarder Umlaufkanal was located here, …
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Blutsee Moor
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The trail leads through the Irtenberger Forest FFH area, past numerous interesting natural areas, such as the so-called "Blutsee," a lowland moor. A very beautiful and idyllic setting. On foot, please avoid the Blutsee in the crescent shape. Not suitable for bicycles; only possible on foot. Mosquito repellent recommended; there are tree trunks along the trail that you have to climb. Most of them are relatively deep.
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A beautiful, idyllic little green space around Lake Burkard in the heart of the city center. There are information panels about bats around the small lake, where you can learn a lot. You can even listen to bat calls from a column.
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The Schwemmsee is a wetland biotope and natural monument in the Höchberg forest. The body of water is located in a depression (334 m above sea level) west of Höchberg in the municipal forest. The Schwemmsee is a stop on the Höchberg forest nature trail and can also be reached from the New Cemetery car park about 200 meters to the northeast. The Schwemmsee probably formed in the last ice age from an ice lens in the ground: an ice lens is a raised area of the ground that occurs when there is frost and the ground is cohesive. The reason for this is the capillary effect, which makes it possible to transport groundwater from a depth of up to 50 m to the frost penetration depth (between 20 and 120 cm in winter in Germany). The water collects there, freezes and raises the ground. Since the groundwater is constantly replenished, the ice accumulations and the raised areas above them become larger and larger. The forest pond has been designated a natural monument since March 25, 1938. [2] The protected area has an area of about 1500 m². The lake provides a habitat for numerous animals. (Würzburg Wiki)
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The Blutseemoor near Kist is a nature reserve in the Irtenberger Forest, which is part of the fauna-flora-habitat areas (FFH). It is known for its swinging lawn, which is the largest in Lower Franconia and floats on an underground body of water. The name Blutsee comes from a type of algae that sometimes turns the water red. The moor is not allowed to be entered as it is life-threatening.
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The forest pond is particularly protected as a natural monument. The alluvial lake offers a habitat for numerous animals, including the dragonfly (Anisoptera) and the pond newt (Triturus vulgaris). The natural monument is characterized by a swinging lawn with cattails, sedges, field mint, purple loosestrife, rushes, loosestrife and the rare water fennel. The yellow iris blooms on the banks from May to July. In contrast to the Bauernsee, the Schwemmsee rarely dries out.
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The pond is often colored green by duckweed and is a real frog paradise. Around the pond you will find mystical rocky landscapes, including a small bridge. There is also a hidden, open moat leading to the pond.
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Beautiful, quiet place in the middle of the forest. A bench invites you to linger. You should take the path around the moor on foot and be considerate of nature.
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An artificial lake with a small inlet (spawning ground for toads)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the lakes around Irtenberger Wald unique?
The Irtenberger Wald region is known for its diverse and ecologically valuable water bodies, ranging from unique wetland biotopes to artificial lakes and natural monuments. These include protected moorlands and forest ponds that support local wildlife, offering a distinct natural experience.
Which lake is known for its unusual red color?
The Blutsee Moor is famous for the Blutsee, which can occasionally appear red. This phenomenon is caused by the mass multiplication of red single-celled organisms or red algae (Euglena sanguinea) in the water.
Can I access the Blutsee-Moor Nature Reserve directly?
The moor itself is a protected area and is not accessible for safety and conservation reasons. However, marked hiking trails around its perimeter allow visitors to observe this rare and fascinating landscape. The Blutsee-Moor Nature Reserve is a crucial scientific reference site.
Are there family-friendly lakes or trails in the area?
Yes, several spots are considered family-friendly. For instance, the Laichsee in the Steinbach Valley is a great place to observe tadpoles in late May. The Schwemmsee Natural Monument is also family-friendly, offering a chance to see various animals. Additionally, the Bat Trail at Burkarder See features educational boards about bats, making it an engaging experience for families.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Irtenberger Wald?
Spring is an excellent time, especially for the Laichsee in the Steinbach Valley, as it is refilled by mid-March and newts and toads spawn there. For the Blutsee, the red coloration can occur at certain times, but the surrounding trails are enjoyable year-round. The area's deciduous forests offer beautiful scenery in autumn as well.
Are there hiking opportunities near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Irtenberger Wald is rich in well-maintained trails. You can find numerous hiking routes, including those that pass by the Blutsee-Moor, such as the 'Kister Blutseerunde'. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking around Irtenberger Wald guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see near these lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are habitats for diverse wildlife. The Schwemmsee Natural Monument is home to dragonflies and pond newts. The Blutsee-Moor supports frogs, dragonflies, and various bat species like the Bechstein's bat. The Bat Trail at Burkarder See is a significant 'bat hotspot' in Würzburg.
Is there parking available near the Blutsee-Moor?
Yes, parking is available near the autobahn exit Gerchsheim, which serves as an accessible starting point for exploring the trails around the Blutsee Moor.
What is the significance of the Laichsee in the Steinbach Valley?
The Laichsee in the Steinbach Valley is an artificial lake that serves as an important spawning ground for toads. It is drained for the winter but refilled by mid-March, attracting newts before the toads spawn en masse in spring, making it a vital ecological spot.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Irtenberger Wald?
While some trails around specific lakes like the Blutsee are primarily for walking, the broader Irtenberger Wald offers well-maintained trails suitable for cycling. You can find various cycling routes in the region by checking the Cycling around Irtenberger Wald guide or the Road Cycling Routes around Irtenberger Wald guide.
What is the Schwemmsee Natural Monument?
The Schwemmsee Natural Monument is a protected forest pond, an alluvial lake that provides a habitat for numerous animals, including dragonflies and pond newts. It features a unique swinging lawn with diverse vegetation and rarely dries out, unlike some other local water bodies.
Are there any educational trails near the lakes?
Yes, the Bat Trail at Burkarder See is an excellent example. Located in a park, it features five information boards about bats and their habitats, with a sixth board detailing the history of the former Burkarder Umlaufkanal. It even has a bat detector station from spring to autumn.
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