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.
Last updated: June 1, 2026
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Nice stopover on tours, restaurants available
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The Pröbstingsee is an artificial lake
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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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A beautiful quiet lake
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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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Very, very nice...great paths, lots of leisure activities 👍🏼😎🚴🏼♂️⛳🚣🏼♂️🧗🏼♂️🏊🏼♂️ Unfortunately totally full on weekends and public holidays 🙈
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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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There are many idyllic places to relax here.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.


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