Best lakes around Crinitz are found in the Elbe-Elster-Land region, characterized by a landscape shaped by former open-cast mining. The area features a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, including the popular Waldbad Crinitz, a forest bathing area. This region offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as swimming and cycling. The Crinitz region attractions include diverse aquatic environments and nature reserves.
Last updated: July 24, 2026
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The marina is full of water, there are enough jetties and moorings. What is missing are the boats. Only two were here today.
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The lake was created by flooding the former Schlabendorf-Süd lignite open-cast mine. It has an area of 4.37 km². Flooding ended in 2012. From 1976 to 1990, 171.2 million tonnes of lignite were mined here.
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Nature is reclaiming what surface mining destroyed. The Sielmann Foundation has purchased 3,000 hectares here. The Wannichen Nature Conservation Station is worth a visit.
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There is currently even a bench here to enjoy the peace and quiet and the view of the lake.
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From Zinnitz to Schockdorfer See a dream. New, smooth asphalt, nice and wide and quiet. Something urgently needs to be done between Stöbritz and Hindenberg (root damage).
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A nice place to rest. Here you have a wide view over the lake. Ducks often float on the water, hundreds of geese in autumn and mute and whooper swans in winter.
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The large lake was created from a remaining open-cast mining hole, but this is only revealed by a few conspicuous bank structures. Swimming and sailing are not permitted for safety reasons. Only the ship “Barbara”, which is usually anchored near the Schlabendorf Marina, occasionally sails across the water. Its job is to lime the water, which is quite acidic. This only bothers the animal world to a limited extent. The lake is a popular roosting place for cranes and geese during migration periods. Sand martins breed on islands. Seagulls are almost ubiquitous, as are the sea eagles.
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Here you have a fantastic view of the post-mining landscape. In the Heinz Sielmann Nature Experience Center you will gain an insight into the history of the mining region, learn a lot about the value of nature in today's post-mining landscape and about the work of the Heinz Sielmann Foundation on site. You can visit the exhibition in the house and explore interesting stations and themed trails on the grounds. Picnics are also possible. You can usually purchase cold and hot drinks at the nature adventure center. Open from April to October, Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.wanninchen.de
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The lakes around Crinitz are primarily characterized by a landscape shaped by former open-cast mining. This means you'll find a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, many of which are part of renaturalization efforts. A notable destination is the Waldbad Crinitz, which is a popular forest bathing area rather than a traditional natural lake.
The Waldbad Crinitz is an idyllic forest bathing area, not a natural lake, known for its swimming facilities surrounded by forest and meadows. It's especially popular in summer for refreshing swims and shady resting spots. It offers a cozy restaurant with a sun terrace, and the entire open-air swimming pool is accessible for disabled visitors. You can also find camping options and access to adjacent cycle paths.
Yes, Lake Schlabendorf is a popular roosting place for cranes and geese during migration periods. Additionally, the Sielmann Nature Park Centre Wanninchen, located near a lake, is a significant nature reserve where you can observe migratory birds like cranes and wild geese, as well as rare species like sand martins, wolves, and hoopoes in a landscape reclaimed from former mining.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on paths like the Cycle Path by Stoßdorfer See, which features excellent asphalt and picturesque views. For more options, explore the available cycling routes around Crinitz or consider gravel biking. There are also easy hiking trails, particularly around historical sites like Princely Drehna Castle and Park.
Yes, you can find easy walking trails, especially around areas like Princely Drehna Castle and Park, which offers a beautiful and well-kept green area for running and walking. The easy hikes around Crinitz guide provides several routes, including loops around the castle and nearby natural features.
Many areas are family-friendly. The Waldbad Crinitz is a great option for families with its swimming facilities. The Sielmann Nature Park Centre Wanninchen offers an interesting exhibition particularly suitable for children, with trails for observation and activities. Highlights like Lake Schlabendorf and Princely Drehna Castle and Park are also categorized as family-friendly.
The best time to visit depends on your interests. For swimming and enjoying the amenities of the Waldbad Crinitz, the summer months are ideal. If you're interested in birdwatching, particularly cranes and geese, migration periods (autumn and early spring) are excellent for visiting Lake Schlabendorf and the Sielmann Nature Park Centre Wanninchen.
A significant historical site is Princely Drehna Castle and Park. This site features a beautiful old Lenné Park, offering a scenic environment for walking and running with the castle building often in view. While some parts of the complex may be closed, the park itself is worth exploring.
Yes, the Waldbad Crinitz has a cozy restaurant with a large sun terrace. Additionally, Marina Schlabendorf am See is located on Lake Schlabendorf, offering a tranquil spot, though it's noted that major boat usage is limited.
The landscape is largely shaped by its history of former open-cast mining. This has resulted in a unique environment featuring a mix of renaturalized areas, forests, and sandy dunes. Places like the Sielmann Nature Park Centre Wanninchen showcase these recultivation efforts, where rare plants and diverse wildlife have found new habitats in what was once a mining area.
Parking is available at several locations. For instance, Princely Drehna Castle and Park offers parking facilities. The Waldbad Crinitz also provides parking spaces, including options for camper vans during the season.


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