Best lakes around Freudenstadt are found in the heart of the Black Forest, a region characterized by its diverse natural landscapes. The area features a collection of picturesque lakes, ranging from serene, untouched tarns formed in glacial cirques to those with developed amenities. These bodies of water offer various recreational opportunities for visitors. The district of Freudenstadt includes quarry ponds, reservoirs, and mountain lakes.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The silted-up, originally almost circular lake now resembles a three-fingered hand. The south-southwest-facing "fingers" are between 80 and 110 meters long, and the northern "palm" has a diameter of approximately 40 meters. The body of water, mostly covered by floating vegetation, has a maximum diameter of just under 150 meters. Like all cirque lakes, the Ellbachsee was formed by glaciers. The last deepening of the lake basin occurred during the Würm glaciation, which ended in the Black Forest about 10,000 years ago. The Ellbachsee and its surroundings are designated as a natural monument (7.1 hectares), a geotope, and a protected forest. Source: Wikipedia
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Beautiful reservoir with swimming opportunities near Erzgrube. Northern lake bypass with many lovely rest areas.
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Even in winter, when access to the Wildsee / Wilder See at Ruhestein is closed due to hibernation, it is worth taking a look down at the beautifully situated Wildsee - one of the remaining twelve karst lakes in the Black Forest. https://www.schwarzwald-informationen.de/wildsee-ruhestein.html
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Great view on the way to the Darmstädter Hütte
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A small lake filled with ducks
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The Ellbachsee in the municipality of Baiersbronn was designated as an extensive natural monument in 1937. The protected area covers a total area of approximately 7.1 hectares. The water area is surrounded by a Bultenmoor; it forms an independent biotope for many endangered animal and plant species. Because of its high sensitivity to being stepped on, you should avoid walking on it so that this habitat is not destroyed. Compared to the other karst lakes in the Black Forest, the Ellbachsee is not particularly deep at 1 to 2 meters. Its length is approximately 190 meters and its width is approximately 40 meters. At just 0.34 hectares, the open water area is the smallest of the karst lakes in the northern Black Forest. It has now become increasingly silted up, which is reflected in a silted area of 1.16 hectares. Some downy birch trees have already settled on the peat island floating on it. The lake has a narrow outlet and breaks through the moraine. It flows into the Guten Ellbach, which flows into the Murg in Baiersbronn Mitteltal.
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Benches invite you to linger and observe
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Beautiful idyllic lake near the magic land.
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The Freudenstadt region, nestled in the Black Forest, offers a diverse range of lakes. You'll find serene, untouched tarns formed in glacial cirques, such as Buhlbacher See and Wildsee, alongside quarry ponds and reservoirs. These bodies of water cater to various preferences, from quiet natural habitats to areas with recreational facilities.
Yes, swimming is permitted in some lakes. For instance, Glaswaldsee is a popular summer destination where you can enjoy a refreshing dip. Always check local regulations before entering the water at other locations.
Absolutely. Many lakes in the area are suitable for families. Lake Sankenbach is particularly family-friendly, featuring a well-equipped barbecue area with three rotating grates, tables, benches, a drinking water fountain, and shelters. Kinzig Lake also offers family-friendly amenities.
The lakes are often surrounded by excellent hiking trails. For example, the area around Lake Sankenbach features popular hiking trails, including a loop that encompasses the Sankenbach Waterfalls. You can also explore the path to the Darmstädter Hütte from Wild lake, which is part of the Baiersbronner Bannwaldweg. For more detailed routes, consider exploring the Waterfall hikes around Freudenstadt guide.
Yes, the region offers various cycling and mountain biking routes that often pass by or near the lakes. You can find options in guides like Gravel biking around Freudenstadt or Cycling around Freudenstadt, which include routes of varying difficulty.
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and enjoying the sun, summer is ideal, especially at lakes like Glaswaldsee. For hiking and enjoying the natural beauty, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage. The Ellbach Lake area, for instance, is particularly stunning when the foliage changes color in late September/early October, offering a 'Canada feeling'.
For a sense of solitude and tranquility, Buhlbacher See is often described as a picturesque, fairytale-like landscape where visitors can enjoy peace and quiet. Wild lake also offers a romantic and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for unwinding amidst undisturbed natural sounds away from crowds.
For breathtaking panoramic views, the Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform offers a fabulous perspective over the mountain ranges of the Northern Black Forest and the Ellbachsee. There's also a dedicated View of Wildsee highlight for a scenic vista of the Wild lake.
Yes, the Ellbachseeblick Viewing Platform is noted as being wheelchair accessible, providing an opportunity for everyone to enjoy the stunning views of the Ellbachsee and the surrounding landscape.
Many lakes in the Freudenstadt area are glacial tarns, formed in cirques, offering unique geological insights. Ellbach Lake, for example, is part of a protected area featuring a 'Bultenmoor' (a type of bog) that serves as a unique biotope for many endangered animal and plant species. Visitors are advised to stay on official paths to protect this sensitive habitat.
While some lakes are more secluded, others offer amenities. Kinzig Lake, for instance, has a cafe and other facilities. For other lakes, it's advisable to check specific highlight details or plan to bring your own provisions, especially for more remote spots.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquil atmosphere, the opportunity to unwind amidst pure natural sounds, and the picturesque scenery. The well-maintained facilities at places like Lake Sankenbach, with its barbecue area, are also highly valued. The smooth water of lakes like Glaswaldsee, reflecting the surrounding trees, creates a mystical and inviting ambiance.


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