Tachinger See: couple swim ©DZT (Günter Standl)

Inspiring Germany

Summer, sun, swimming – 9 refreshing bathing lakes in Germany

Pure refreshment, even away from the coast: Germany's lakes delight visitors with crystal-clear water, idyllic coves and a wide variety of activities. Discover our top 9 spots for a carefree time by the water – whether it's activities, relaxation or time in nature you're after.

Schluchsee: summer retreat in the Black Forest

Menschen entspannen sich im Strandbereich am Schluchsee im Schwarzwald. Das Wasser ist von Bäumen umgeben. Black Forest: Beach at Schluchsee ©Adobe Stock (Sina Ettmer)

The largest lake in the Black Forest beckons, its lido overflowing with an abundance of fun and variety. Hikers, sailors and sunbathers alike are in for a treat here. Around the shore, scenic trails lead to bathing bays and rustic beer gardens – ideal for day trips or short breaks.

Müggelsee: Berlin's classic bathing spot with a view

Menschen auf Liegestühlen genießen einen sonnigen Tag am Müggelsee in Berlin Müggelsee in Berlin ©visitBerlin (Dagmar Schwelle)

The Müggelsee is Berlin's largest inland water – urban yet green. Here, SUP yoga, rowing boats and picnic meadows meet beer garden paradise and Müggelberge romance. Three official beach resorts offer excellent swimming opportunities.

Müritz: sea of the Mecklenburg Lake District

Ein Hausboot schwimmt bei Sonnenuntergang auf der Müritz in der Region Mecklenburgische Seenplatte. In der Nähe des Hausbootes sind zwei Personen auf einem Stand-up-Paddleboard unterwegs. Mecklenburg Lake District: Houseboat in the middle of the nature of the Müritz at sunset ©TMV (Markus Kirchgessner)

The Müritz is Germany's largest inland lake – an El Dorado for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Between historic lakeside resorts, vast expanses of water and quiet bays, you can enjoy summer at your own pace.

Steinhuder Meer – a sea in the middle of the moor

In einem Hafen in Steinhude liegen mehrere hölzerne Segelboote vor Anker, deren Masten in den Himmel ragen. Wunstorf: Steinhude harbor on the Steinhuder Meer ©DZT (Andrea Hitzemann)

Lower Saxony's largest inland lake surprises its visitors with island bathing spots, traditional sailing boats and a touch of North Sea flair – an authentic natural and cultural experience. Sunsets on the promenade or on the bathing island are particularly atmospheric.

Blausteinsee: where water writes history

Where lignite was once mined, a sparkling lake now offers opportunities for swimming, diving and relaxation. The Blausteinsee near Eschweiler impresses with its panoramic views, sandy beach and sustainable renaturation – a successful example of new recreational value.

Bostalsee: splashing around in the nature park

The photo shows a calm lake with a sailing boat. The sun is shining brightly in the sky and its light is reflected on the surface of the water. Trees and green land can be seen on the left-hand side of the picture. Nohfelden: Bostalsee ©Tourist Information Sankt Wendeler Land

The Bostalsee in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park offers family-friendly beaches, sailing courses, campsites and plenty of nature all around – the perfect holiday destination for sportier travellers or those seeking relaxation. A roughly ten-kilometre-long circular trail runs right around the lake, delighting hikers and cyclists.

Hohenwarte reservoir: a fjord feeling in the heart of Germany

The Hohenwarte reservoir – also known as the 'Thuringian Sea' – enchants visitors with fjord-like views, bathing bays surrounded by greenery and spectacular panoramic routes around the water. Boats for hire, hidden beach access points and minimal hustle and bustle in summer make this spot a particularly appealing choice.

Lake Markkleeberg: from open-cast mine to dream lake

A woman rides a stand-up paddleboard on Lake Markkleeberg in summer weather. Stand-up paddling on Lake Markkleeberg ©DZT (Florian Trykowski)

The Lake Markkleeberg near Leipzig is a showcase project for structural change: crystal clear, ideal for swimming and paddling – plus Europe's most modern whitewater facility right on the shore. There is plenty of action around the lake: a climbing park, adventure golf and a circular route for cycling and inline skating.

Lanker See: waves, forest & vastness

Nestled in a nature reserve, Lanker See near Preetz offers peaceful swimming spots, bird watching and perfect conditions for paddlers and nature photographers. If you value peace and quiet, discover the unspoilt Schleswig-Holstein here – far away from the hustle and bustle.

Looking for a refreshing dip with a surprise effect? Away from the classic swimming lakes, Germany offers a range of original bathing spots: from the mysterious volcanic crater lake in the Eifel to the urban river pool in the heart of Munich and the tranquil Baltic Sea lagoon on Usedom. Discover special places where swimming becomes an unforgettable experience.

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