Top 20 Lakes in the Sauerland

The Sauerland lakes offer a wide range of water sports. For example, Möhnesee is popular for sailing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and swimming. Biggesee and Listersee are also excellent for sailing, diving, and fishing, with quiet spots for swimming. Sorpesee is known for sailing, canoeing, pedal boating, and SUP, and even offers unique tree house accommodations.

Yes, the lakes are surrounded by numerous trails. Möhnesee features five signposted circular cycling routes through the Arnsberg Forest. The Bigge-Lister-Wanderweg provides scenic hiking and cycling trails around Biggesee and Listersee. Hennesee offers leisurely walks along its promenade, and Diemelsee is ideal for hiking and cycling in a natural park setting. For more options, you can explore easy hikes in the Sauerland or gravel biking routes in the region.

The lakes boast several impressive features. The Möhnesee Dam is an architectural marvel over 100 years old. Biggesee is home to the impressive statue of Attania, a mermaid on Gilberg Island, and the Lister Dam. Sorpesee is the deepest of the Sauerland lakes, offering countless quiet bays. You can also find the View of the Ettelsberg reservoir and the Hochheideturm, which provides unique perspectives of an artificial snow production reservoir.

Several spots offer breathtaking panoramic views. The Möhnesee Tower provides expansive views of the Möhnesee. The Aussichtsplattform Biggeblick offers stunning vistas over Biggesee. You can also find a beautiful perspective from the View of the Möhnesee and the bridge, or enjoy the scenery from the View of the Biggesee, which features benches for a relaxing stop.

Many lakes in the Sauerland are family-friendly. Möhnesee has three lidos for swimming and numerous hiking trails. Biggesee and Listersee offer quiet swimming spots and passenger boat trips. Hennesee provides designated bathing areas and a promenade for leisurely walks. Sorpesee also has various beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and the electric passenger ship "EMS Sorpesee" is a relaxed way to explore the lake.

While specific dog-friendly trails are not always explicitly marked, the natural environment and extensive trail networks around lakes like Möhnesee, Biggesee, and Diemelsee generally welcome dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. Always check local regulations or signage for specific restrictions in certain areas or nature reserves.

The Sauerland lakes are a prime destination throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, swimming, hiking, and cycling, with lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Autumn offers stunning foliage for scenic walks, while winter can provide a serene, picturesque landscape, though water activities might be limited.

Some areas around the lakes offer accessible options. For instance, the Henne-Boulevard promenade at Hennesee is suitable for leisurely walks. While not all trails are fully accessible, efforts are made in popular areas. The View from Kanzel Bridge is noted as wheelchair accessible. It's always recommended to check specific locations for detailed accessibility information before visiting.

Yes, you'll find various dining options around the lakes. Möhnesee, for example, has many cafes along its lakeside. The South Shore of Lake Möhnesee is noted for having restaurants and cafes. The Waldenburger Bay Beach on Biggesee also offers facilities including pubs and restaurants. The Sorpesee Dam area is well-developed with opportunities to eat or drink.

Fishing is a popular activity in the Sauerland lakes. Sorpesee, being the deepest, is particularly ideal for anglers, with species like pike, perch, and trout. Biggesee and Listersee also offer good fishing opportunities. Visitors typically need a valid fishing license and a day permit for the specific lake.

Hennesee, located near Meschede, is unique for its blend of nature, activities, and culture. It's surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, and features the Henne-Boulevard promenade connecting the town with the lake. It's ideal for leisurely walks, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing, and swimming, with designated bathing areas and excursion boats.

Accommodation options vary, from traditional hotels and guesthouses to unique stays. Sorpesee is known for offering unique accommodations like tree houses. Camping and holiday parks are also common, especially around the larger lakes like Möhnesee and Biggesee, catering to different preferences and budgets.