Lakes around Unterwellenborn are primarily defined by the extensive Hohenwarte Reservoir, known as the "Thüringer Meer" for its size and fjord-like landscape. This significant body of water was formed by damming the Saale River, serving purposes like energy generation and flood protection. The reservoir stretches for 27 kilometers, featuring deep valleys and vast water expanses framed by dense forests. It offers a range of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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Popular around Unterwellenborn
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The Mooshäuschen is very well located, with a fantastic view, the climb from Alter is worth it.
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With stamp station and mega view 😍.
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One of the most beautiful places at the Hohenwarte 🥰.
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When you stand on the dam you can wonderfully admire the Saale and the reservoir.
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The dam wall, which rises about 14 meters above the valley floor, is 215 meters long and accessible. The storage space holds a good five million cubic meters of water, which occupies an area of around 70 hectares. When leaving the Eichicht dam, the dammed Saale operates a run-of-river power plant with an output of 3.4 megawatts.
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The lakes around Unterwellenborn are primarily defined by the extensive Hohenwarte Reservoir, often called the "Thüringer Meer" (Thuringian Sea). This large body of water, formed by damming the Saale River, is known for its impressive size, fjord-like landscape, and deep valleys framed by dense forests. It serves purposes like energy generation and flood protection, and offers a wide range of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Visitors particularly enjoy the stunning vistas from several points. The Mooshäuschen Viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Saale River. Another favorite is the View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir, which provides an impressive look at a loop in the Saale River, complete with benches for resting. The Hohenwarte Dam itself also offers wide views of the reservoir.
Yes, the vastness of the Hohenwarte Reservoir makes it ideal for various water sports. You can enjoy swimming, fishing, diving, sailing, surfing, and water skiing. Boat rentals and guided canoe tours are also available, offering unique perspectives of the landscape from the water. Passenger ships and motorboats provide leisurely ways to explore the magnificent scenery.
Absolutely. Several spots are well-suited for families. The Hohenwarte Dam and the Eichicht Dam are both considered family-friendly, offering impressive views and structures. The general area around the reservoirs provides ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoying nature with children.
The most prominent man-made landmark is the Hohenwarte Dam. This impressive structure, 75 meters high and 412 meters long, was built between 1936 and 1942 and offers a wonderful view of the reservoir. The Eichicht Dam is another significant structure, serving as the final part of the Saale cascade in the Obere Saale dam system.
Yes, the region offers extensive hiking opportunities. The 74.4-kilometer Hohenwarte Reservoir Trail is a challenging route traversing dense forests and steep slopes with numerous impressive views. A hiking bus operates from May to October to facilitate access to different stages. For more hiking ideas, you can explore the Running Trails around Unterwellenborn guide, which includes routes like the 'Koßdorfbach Bridge – Mooshäuschen Viewpoint loop'.
The area around the lakes is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes for different types of bikes. For gravel biking, consider routes like the 'Saale Cycle Path – Saale River at Saalfeld loop' or the 'Lohmturm Observation Tower – Eichicht Dam and Power Station loop' as detailed in the Gravel biking around Unterwellenborn guide. Road cyclists can explore options like the 'Hohenwarte Dam – Hohenwarte Dam loop' from the Road Cycling Routes around Unterwellenborn guide.
The Hohenwarte Reservoir is often compared to Scandinavian fjords due to its unique landscape. It features deep valleys of the Thuringian Slate Mountains and expansive water bodies framed by dense forests, creating a picturesque and dramatic scenery. Steep slopes, rocky viewpoints, and clear blue waters contribute to its distinctive fjord-like appearance.
Visitors highly appreciate the breathtaking scenery, especially the fjord-like views and the impressive Saale loops. The diverse recreational activities, from hiking the extensive trails to various water sports, are also a major draw. The community has shared over 550 photos and given more than 1300 upvotes to highlights, indicating a strong appreciation for the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities.
Yes, the View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir is noted as wheelchair accessible. This spot provides magnificent vistas of a loop in the Saale River and includes benches for resting, making it a comfortable option for all visitors to enjoy the scenery.
The region is beautiful year-round, but for hiking and enjoying the full range of outdoor activities, the period from May to October is particularly recommended. During these months, a hiking bus operates, making it easier to access different stages of the Hohenwarte Reservoir Trail and enjoy the pleasant weather for water sports and exploration.
Yes, the broader Saale cascade consists of several reservoirs. The Eichicht Dam is another significant structure, serving as the final part of the Saale cascade in the Obere Saale dam system. While smaller, the Engerda Dam is also present, offering a quiet, idyllic spot in Hexengrund.
Absolutely. Beyond active pursuits, the Hohenwarte Reservoir and its surroundings offer ample opportunities for peace and relaxation. Many viewpoints, like the View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir, have benches. The region's unique natural setting, with dense forests and clear waters, provides a perfect environment for unwinding and enjoying the fresh air.


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