Best attractions and places to see around Otto-Maigler-See include a large lake formed from a former brown coal open-cast mine, now a popular recreational area near Hürth. This area offers a blend of natural beauty and opportunities for water sports and outdoor activities. The lake is surrounded by paths suitable for walking and cycling, and a significant portion is designated as a landscape protection area.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Popular around Otto-Maigler-See
Beautiful cycle path
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This area was opened for recultivation as early as 1959 after brown coal mining; the public has had access since 1977 and can use the lake for all kinds of leisure activities. A slightly smaller neighboring lake remained reserved for nature and public access was largely denied. The name commemorates a board member of the coal mining company who died in 1967 and who, with foresight, advocated for diverse uses of the lignite mining area at an early stage.
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Nice shore to cool your feet or let dogs in the water. Very shallow bank with relatively soft ground. Cozy bench to rest.
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There is a circular path directly around the lake or alternative alternatives that are slightly higher up
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The Otto-Maigler-See is one of the most beautiful bathing lakes in NRW. You can quickly get there by bike. Your physical well-being will be taken care of on site.
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A place to enjoy, especially during the week!👍
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One of the many beautiful lakes in this area
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The lake was created by inflowing groundwater after lignite mining in a planned open-cast mine. The recultivation operation plan of the then Rheinbraun, approved by the Brühl Mining Authority on October 3, 1959, was essentially based on preparatory work by the independent Cologne landscape architect Victor Calles, who had been doing this since 1946 for the recultivation of the mining areas in general and then in 1961 on behalf of the municipality on a specific plan for the area of the field in the middle of the community. The area is now under landscape protection, under the jurisdiction of the Rhineland Nature Park. [4] The remaining hole was originally divided by three clay ridges that were removed in order to join the individual areas into a large lake. At the same time, a sandy beach was laid out on the northwest side of the bank. [5] The area of the Otto-Maigler-See is 30 m higher than the surrounding area. A three-row forest protection planting around the lake protects the agriculturally used surrounding area from the increased wind effect of the west and south-west winds (wind damage). The tree plantings also extend over the top edge of the slope. In addition, the edges of the dump were leveled and strengthened through forestry recultivation. They were designed with heels (berms) in such a way that they can be used as paths and blend in harmoniously with the surroundings. [6]
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The lake is a popular spot for various water activities. You can enjoy swimming, rowing, and surfing. Additionally, visitors often engage in kayaking, stand-up paddling (SUP), and sailing. Designated areas are available for swimming, and the Otto Maigler Lake is known for its outdoor pool with a sandy beach.
Yes, the area around Otto-Maigler-See is excellent for both walking and cycling. The lake can be completely circumnavigated by bike, and there are gravel and grass footpaths perfect for leisurely strolls or invigorating rides. For specific routes, you can explore options like the Cycling around Otto-Maigler-See guide or the Gravel biking around Otto-Maigler-See guide.
The Otto-Maigler Lake — Northeast Shore and Beach Club is a major highlight, featuring a 500-meter long sandy beach where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. It often hosts events and provides gastronomy services, creating a vibrant atmosphere for a day out by the water.
Absolutely. The region offers several easy hiking routes suitable for a relaxed outing. For example, you can find trails like the 'Hürther Waldsee – Otto-Maigler Lake loop from Gleuel' or the 'Boat Dock on the Lake – Burbach Monastery loop from Gleuel'. More options are available in the Easy hikes around Otto-Maigler-See guide.
Otto-Maigler-See has a unique history as a former brown coal open-cast mine (Tagebau Gotteshülfe). The lake itself was created by inflowing groundwater after lignite mining. The area underwent extensive recultivation, transforming it into the popular recreational spot it is today. Plaques near the lake commemorate this history, including the relocation of the village of Bahnrad.
Yes, you can visit the Roddergrube Mining Memorial, which serves as a historical site commemorating the region's mining heritage. It's accessible via a trail, offering a glimpse into the area's industrial past.
Many attractions around Otto-Maigler-See are considered family-friendly. The sandy beaches at Otto Maigler Lake and the Northeast Shore and Beach Club are ideal for children. The easy walking and cycling paths around the lake also provide safe and enjoyable activities for families.
Yes, the area is generally dog-friendly. The Otto-Maigler Lake — Access and Rest Area provides a nice shore where dogs can cool their feet in the water. Many of the footpaths around the lake are also suitable for walks with your dog.
The primary natural feature is the Otto-Maigler Lake itself, which is a stunning body of water with excellent quality. It's surrounded by a landscape protection area under the jurisdiction of the Rhineland Nature Park, offering peaceful scenery and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The lake's shores feature sandy beaches and natural banks.
Visitors particularly appreciate the lake's versatility as a recreational area. Many enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing, the various water sports opportunities, and the extensive network of paths for walking and cycling. The transformation of a former mining area into such a vibrant natural escape is also a point of interest for many.
Yes, several spots around the lake offer pleasant viewpoints. The lake itself, including the Otto Maigler Lake and its shores, provides scenic vistas. The Roddergrube Mining Memorial also offers a viewpoint along its trail.
Otto-Maigler-See is enjoyable year-round, but the best time largely depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn are ideal. For walking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Even in winter, the paths around the lake can be used for invigorating walks.


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