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Winterswijk

Top 20 Lakes around Winterswijk

Best lakes around Winterswijk are situated in a region characterized by its varied natural landscape and proximity to the Dutch-German border. The area features a mix of recreational lakes, natural swimming facilities, and water bodies within nature reserves. These locations provide opportunities for water-based activities and relaxation. The terrain around Winterswijk lakes often includes walking routes and natural features.

Best lakes around Winterswijk

  • The most popular lakes is Zwillbrocker Venn, a natural monument that is a nature reserve on the Dutch-German border. Many birds perch here, including a colony of about 40 flamingos.
  • Another must-see spot is Pröbsting Lake and Bocholter Aa, a lake that offers magnificent views. It is a destination with many leisure activities.
  • Visitors also love Pröbstingsee Recreation Area, a leisure and recreation lake spanning over 100,000 square meters. It offers activities such as pedal boats, a climbing forest, mini-golf, and playgrounds.
  • Winterswijk is known for recreational lakes, natural swimming areas, and water bodies within nature reserves. Visitors can find a variety of lakes to see and explore, from former gravel pits to bird sanctuaries.
  • The lakes around Winterswijk are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1500 upvotes and almost 300 photos across 14 highlights.

Last updated: June 1, 2026

Zwillbrocker Venn

Highlight • Natural Monument

Zwillbrocker Venn is a nature reserve on the Dutch-German border. The forest and swamp area was created after peat was cut here. Many birds perch here, including a colony of about forty flamingos (!). This makes it the northernmost breeding ground in Europe for this tropical pink appearance.

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Pröbsting Lake

Highlight • Lake

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Pröbsting Lake and Bocholter Aa

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Magnificent view! Just let your mind wander ...

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Berkel Lake, Vreden

Highlight • Lake

The natural surroundings of the lake are magnificent and invite you to linger and dream. With a little patience, you can observe various bird species here, as there are two bird sanctuaries by the lake.

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Tips from the Community

DJTornado
April 21, 2025, Pröbstingsee and Bocholter Aa

Nice stopover on tours, restaurants available

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2

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The Pröbstingsee is an artificial lake

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11

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History The Pröbstingsee area was planned and implemented as a local recreation area in the 1970s. In 2011, the city of Borken renovated and improved the facilities at Pröbstingsee, such as information signs, benches, etc., as part of a funding project.

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6

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A beautiful quiet lake

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10

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I've been there several times and it's always nice. I always enjoy riding pedal boats!

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5

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Very, very nice...great paths, lots of leisure activities 👍🏼😎🚴🏼‍♂️⛳🚣🏼‍♂️🧗🏼‍♂️🏊🏼‍♂️ Unfortunately totally full on weekends and public holidays 🙈

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11

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Beautiful here again today at the Pröbstingsee and very beautiful along the Bocholter Aa. Greetings go out

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6

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There are many idyllic places to relax here.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular lakes for recreation around Winterswijk?

For recreational activities, 't Hilgelo in Winterswijk is a prominent choice, known for its extensive beach and swimming opportunities. Another popular spot is the Pröbstingsee Recreation Area, which offers pedal boats, a climbing forest, mini-golf, and playgrounds, making it a great destination for all ages.

Where can I go for birdwatching near Winterswijk?

The Zwillbrocker Venn nature reserve, located on the Dutch-German border, is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It's famous for hosting a colony of about 40 flamingos, making it Europe's northernmost breeding ground for these birds. Additionally, Berkel Lake in Vreden, Germany, features two bird sanctuaries where you can observe various bird species with patience.

Are there family-friendly lakes with activities around Winterswijk?

Yes, several lakes cater to families. The Pröbstingsee Recreation Area is highly recommended, offering a wide array of activities like pedal boats, a climbing forest, mini-golf, and playgrounds. Het Strandbad in Winterswijk is also a historic open-air swimming facility with sunbathing areas, water play equipment, and diving boards, perfect for a family day out.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?

The lakes around Winterswijk offer diverse natural features. You can find former gravel pit lakes like 't Hilgelo, which provide sandy beaches and swimming. Nature reserves such as Zwillbrocker Venn feature forest and swamp areas, home to unique birdlife. Berkel Lake is noted for its magnificent natural surroundings and bird sanctuaries.

What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?

Beyond water activities, the region around Winterswijk's lakes is great for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes, such as those detailed in the Cycling around Winterswijk guide or the MTB Trails around Winterswijk guide. Many lakes, like Pröbsting Lake, also have paths suitable for walking or cycling around them.

Are there good walking or hiking routes around the lakes?

Yes, many lakes offer pleasant walking routes. You can cycle or walk around Pröbsting Lake and enjoy the natural surroundings. The area around Zwillbrocker Venn also features trails through its forest and swamp landscape. For more extensive options, consider exploring the routes in the Gravel biking around Winterswijk guide, which often include paths suitable for walking.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Winterswijk?

The lakes are generally accessible year-round. For swimming and water recreation, the warmer months are ideal. However, places like 't Hilgelo and De Slingeplas are open for water recreation throughout the year. For birdwatching, especially to see the flamingos at Zwillbrocker Venn, specific seasons might offer better viewing opportunities, but they are present for a significant part of the year.

Can I find places to eat or drink near the lakes?

Yes, several lakes have facilities for refreshments. At 't Hilgelo, you can find Beachclub MEER. Near Pröbsting Lake, there's a boathouse beer garden where you can relax with a drink. Het Strandbad also has a pavilion for snacks and drinks.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in the Winterswijk area?

Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities and the natural beauty. Many enjoy the extensive beaches and swimming at lakes like 't Hilgelo and De Slingeplas. The unique wildlife, especially the flamingos at Zwillbrocker Venn, is a major draw. The combination of leisure activities and tranquil natural settings, as found at the Pröbstingsee Recreation Area, is also highly valued.

Are there any lakes suitable for swimming in the Winterswijk area?

Yes, several lakes are great for swimming. 't Hilgelo is a popular recreational lake with an extensive beach for swimming. De Slingeplas also offers opportunities for water recreation. Additionally, Het Strandbad in Winterswijk is a historic and beautifully restored open-air swimming facility with dedicated swimming areas.

How do 't Hilgelo and De Slingeplas compare for activities?

Both 't Hilgelo and De Slingeplas are prominent recreational lakes near Winterswijk, offering opportunities for swimming and general water recreation. 't Hilgelo is known for its extensive beach and the presence of Beachclub MEER. De Slingeplas, located near Bredevoort, also features sandy beaches and is suitable for various water activities throughout the year. Both are excellent choices for a day by the water.

Is there parking available at the lakes?

While specific parking details for every lake are not provided, popular recreational areas like 't Hilgelo, De Slingeplas, and the Pröbstingsee Recreation Area are generally equipped with visitor facilities, which typically include parking. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for specific parking instructions and fees.

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