Best lakes around Obernzenn include the prominent Obernzenner See, an artificial lake established in 1980 as a flood retention basin. This lake complex covers 34 hectares, with a water surface of 14 hectares and a maximum depth of 4.5 meters. It is divided into zones for bathing, surfing, boating, and a biotope. The area provides various recreational activities and is an important part of the local landscape.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
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Beautifully situated and very helpful in bad weather, but also suitable as protection from the sun in midsummer.
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A beautiful lake that invites you to take a rest.
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The Hirschteich is considered to be one of the three Altmühl sources. However, since this source dries up again and again in dry periods, it is considered unlikely. Since 1904, the Hornauer Weiher has been officially designated as the Altmühl source.
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The Hornauer Weiher is considered to be the origin of the Altmühl, but it is probably the nearby deer pond.
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The Hornauer Weiher is officially considered to be the source of the Altmühl, but it is probably the nearby Hirschteich.
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It's a beautiful lake though. But we haven't been there for a while and everything has been completely rebuilt. Everything is now forbidden. In places where you could previously lie down, everything has been leveled and provided with stones and you are now only allowed to bathe in one place. It is relatively small and anyone who likes crowds and shouting will definitely feel at home there. A pity.
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An idyllic pond in the forest that belongs to the headwaters of the Altmühl.
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Class recreation area - very nicely laid out bathing area
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The Obernzenner See offers a wide range of recreational activities. You can go sailing, surfing, and swimming in designated areas. Fishing is also popular, with day passes available for species like carp, trout, and pike-perch. Non-motorized boating is permitted, and there's a slipway for launching. A specific section is available for diving. The surrounding recreational area includes a playground, table tennis, and volleyball facilities. For a specific swimming spot, check out the Swimming area Obernzenner See, which features a lawn and a small bistro.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. The Colmberg Bathing Lake is a quiet spot with a small playground, rest area, and sun loungers, plus a nearby skate park and beach volleyball court. The Swimming area Obernzenner See is also family-friendly, offering a lawn and facilities. The Hirschteich (Altmühl spring) is an idyllic forest lake suitable for a family outing.
You'll find various hiking opportunities around the lakes. For example, the Gräfweiher is located on the edge of the Gräfholz und Dachsberge forest and is accessible via the Steigerwald-Panoramaweg. For more options, you can explore the hiking routes around Obernzenn, which include easy loops like the 'Obernzenner See – Fingalshöhle Sandstone Quarry loop'.
The lakes are generally best enjoyed during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn, for swimming, boating, and other outdoor activities. The Obernzenner See's bathing water quality consistently meets EU guidelines. Note that the Obernzenner See underwent renovation and is expected to reach its final water level by the start of the 2026 bathing season, making it fully operational for summer activities then.
Yes, directly at the Obernzenner See, you'll find the 'Sul Lago' restaurant/pizzeria, offering dining in a friendly atmosphere. There is also a family-friendly campsite for tents, motorhomes, and caravans right by the lake, providing convenient accommodation options.
Yes, fishing is permitted in Obernzenner See. Anglers can expect to catch various species, including carp, trout, char, pike-perch, tench, rudd, roach, perch, eel, and asp. Day passes for fishing are available locally.
The Hirschteich (Altmühl spring) is an idyllic small lake located in the forest between Burgbernheim and Hornau. It is considered by many to be the true source of the Altmühl river, a significant waterway in the region. It's a beautiful spot for a quiet walk.
The region around Obernzenn offers various cycling routes. You can find options for touring bicycles, including routes like the 'Market Square Bad Windsheim – Bad Windsheim Town Hall loop'. For more details and route options, refer to the cycling guide for Obernzenn.
The Obernzenner See was primarily established in 1980 as a flood retention basin to protect Obernzenn and the Zenn river basin from severe flooding. Beyond its crucial flood control function, it also serves as a significant recreational area, offering diverse outdoor activities and contributing to the local landscape.
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Obernzenner Lake – Obernzenner See loop from Obernzenn'. More mountain biking options are detailed in the MTB Trails around Obernzenn guide.
The lakes around Obernzenn are set amidst diverse natural landscapes. You'll find forest areas, such as around the Hirschteich (Altmühl spring) and Gräfweiher. The Obernzenner See itself includes a biotope designated as an absolute protection zone, highlighting its ecological importance. Many lakes also feature natural bathing areas and beaches.


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