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Germany
North Rhine-Westphalia

Kreis Soest

Top 20 Lakes around Kreis Soest

Best lakes around Kreis Soest are situated in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering diverse recreational opportunities within the Sauerland region. The area is characterized by its reservoirs, which connect the fertile Soest Börde with the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park. These lakes provide a blend of natural landscapes and historical infrastructure, such as the Möhne Dam. Visitors can explore a variety of water sports, cycling, and hiking trails around these bodies of water.

Best lakes around Kreis Soest

  • The most popular lakes is Möhnesee Dam, a man_made_monument that offers a great circuit for cycling. This impressive dam wall is a significant historical monument, and an excursion boat often starts from here.
  • Another must-see spot is Körbecke Bridge, a bridge. This pedestrian bridge connects the north and south banks of the lake, offering views of the Möhnesee.
  • Visitors also love South Shore of Lake Möhnesee, a lake. On the lakeside, there are cafes where visitors can enjoy the view of the water.
  • Kreis Soest is known for its reservoirs, recreational lakes, and lakes with sandy beaches. These provide a variety of options for water sports, relaxation, and scenic walks.
  • The lakes around Kreis Soest are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4000 upvotes and over 1000 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Möhnesee Dam

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The excursion boat also starts beautifully at the dam from here

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Möhne Dam

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The Möhnesee is a reservoir on the Möhne. It is located in the municipality of Möhnesee in the Soest district of North Rhine-Westphalia. At the storage target, the main dam has 10.37 km²[2] water surface and a storage space of 126.05 million m³;[3] with the two largest pre-dams and an equalization basin it is 134.5 million m³.[3] The water is dammed by a 40.3 m[2] high and 650 m[2] long dam.
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South Shore of Lake Möhnesee

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On the lakeside there are many cafes where you can catch a breath of fresh air. Here you can strengthen yourself and enjoy the view on the water. The Möhnesee is European bird sanctuary. Not only cyclists can take a breather here, countless water and migratory birds can also find space here for a break.

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View from Kanzel Bridge

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Various waterfowl can be found here.

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Alberssee Beach

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A clear recreational lake with a beautiful sandy beach. Open from March to October in good weather. The water is monitored by the German Lifeboat Association (DLRG), at least on weekends. The lido has a café with a snack bar. Pedal boats are also available for rent. Admission is free. Plenty of bicycle parking is available in front of the café.

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Möhnesee near Körbecke

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At Möhnesee you can enjoy cycling on the paths around the reservoir. In summer, there are many bathing spots along the way where you can jump into the fresh water. The water quality at Möhnesee is very good everywhere, so you have the freedom to choose where you want to go swimming. The swimming areas are spread around the entire lake and you can choose between large sandy beaches, hidden coves or beach resorts.

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Hevearm Nature Reserve at Lake Möhne

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Along the Möhnesee there are numerous opportunities to observe waterfowl in this area. It is only important to note that the area between the path and the lake must not be entered. Several signs inform the visitor about the importance of the nature reserve and the history of the Möhnesees. A visit is recommended in summer and in winter, birds are of course preferably observed in the summer.

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The view of the lake has its own charm in every season.

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View of Möhnesee

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great view of the Möhnesee

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Möhne Dam

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The dam at the Möhnesee is a very impressive building. From the top you have another view over the Möhnesee, but also from below it is worth taking a look at the dam wall.

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Cycling Collection by

Sebastian Gliem

Tips from the Community

Moonbeam🌜
March 7, 2024, View of Hevesee and Hevearm of the Möhnesee

The large, open water area of the Hevearm, in conjunction with the main body of water of the Möhnesee, is a traditional migration, resting and wintering area for numerous endangered divers, ducks and the osprey. The area is characterized by nationally important amphibious habitats and siltation biotopes and is of international importance for migrating, resting and wintering waterbirds. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naturschutzgebiet_Hevearm_und_Hevesee

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The Möhnesee, often referred to as the "Westphalian Sea", is one of the largest reservoirs in Germany and is picturesquely located in the Sauerland, near the Ruhr area. This idyllic location makes the lake a popular destination for those seeking local recreation and long-term vacationers. The Möhnesee and its surroundings offer a wide range of leisure activities, including hiking, cycling, water sports and fishing, making it a versatile destination. The history of Lake Möhne begins with the construction of the Möhne Dam in August 1909. The dam was originally used to generate energy and supply drinking water and, with its impressive quarry stone wall, is one of the region's main attractions. The lake itself was artificially created and yet fits harmoniously into the surrounding landscape as if it had always been part of it. The southern part of the lake borders on the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park, a varied and extensive forest area that offers ideal conditions for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. The shores of Lake Möhne stretch over 40 kilometers and invite you to enjoy a variety of activities. The excellent water quality of the lake also makes it a popular place for bathing, swimming and water sports. The Möhnesee is also an important habitat for many animal and plant species. In particular, the Hevearm and Hevesee nature reserve to the south, a 320 hectare area that protects rare plant and animal species and attracts tens of thousands of water birds every year, underlines the ecological importance of the Möhnesee. This makes the lake a bird sanctuary of international importance. Overall, the Möhnesee is a fascinating example of the successful combination of human engineering and nature conservation, offering visitors a unique mix of relaxation, sport and nature experience.

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Definitely worth a trip

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Stephanie
October 15, 2023, View of Möhnesee

A beautiful place to cycle

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The Möhnesee is always worth a visit.

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A really nice corner there at Möhnesee. Lots of space for leisure activities, whether hiking, biking or water sports. Everyone can be happy there. And if not, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes around the lake. 😜😁

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A really beautiful corner there at the Möhnesee. Lots of space for leisure activities, whether hiking, biking or water sports. Everyone can be happy there. And if not, there are enough restaurants and cafés around the lake. 😜😁

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A detour around the Heve Peninsula is definitely worth it. The path is paved throughout, easy to drive on and provides interesting information about the flora and fauna in the region on various display boards. There is even a passenger ship pier for sightseeing trips in the area.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best lakes for swimming in Kreis Soest?

For swimming, Möhnesee offers designated bathing areas in Delecke and Seepark Körbecke, with excellent water quality. Alberssee Beach is another clear recreational lake with a sandy beach, open from March to October, and its water quality is monitored by the DLRG.

Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes in Kreis Soest?

Yes, the lakes offer many family-friendly options. At Möhnesee, the Seepark Körbecke features a playground, skating park, and adventure golf. The Wildlife Park Völlinghausen is also a great family attraction. Sorpesee has the barrier-free "AiRlebnisweg" in Amecke, and both lakes offer swimming, pedal boating, and beach activities. Alberssee Beach is also ideal for families with its sandy beach and pedal boat rentals.

What historical landmarks can I visit near the lakes?

The most prominent historical landmark is the Möhnesee Dam, an impressive structure over 100 years old. The Sorpe Dam, built between 1926 and 1935, was once Europe's largest construction site. You can also find the mystical Drüggelte Chapel and the Bismarckturm near Möhnesee.

What kind of water sports can I do at the lakes?

Both Möhnesee and Sorpesee are excellent for water sports. Möhnesee is suitable for swimming, sailing, surfing, and canoeing. Sorpesee, known for its clear water, is an 'Eldorado' for diving, sailing, stand-up paddling, canoeing, windsurfing, and pedal boating. Fishing is also popular at Sorpesee due to its rich fish population.

Are there good hiking and cycling trails around the lakes?

Yes, extensive cycling paths and hiking trails wind around the lakes. Möhnesee connects to the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park and the Haarstrang, offering many routes. Sorpesee is surrounded by scenic trails, including the barrier-free "AiRlebnisweg." For more detailed routes, you can explore options like the "Triovelo Fahrradtour" for cycling or various MTB trails. Find more routes in the Cycling around Kreis Soest, Road Cycling Routes around Kreis Soest, and MTB Trails around Kreis Soest guides.

Which lakes offer the best viewpoints?

Many spots offer great views. The View of Möhnesee is highly rated. The View from Kanzel Bridge provides a particularly beautiful perspective of Möhnesee. The Möhnesee Tower also offers magnificent panoramic views over the Arnsberg Forest and the lake. Sorpesee's natural beauty also provides numerous scenic vistas along its shores.

Are there accessible paths around the lakes for wheelchairs or strollers?

Yes, the Körbecke Bridge at Möhnesee is wheelchair accessible, connecting the north and south banks. Additionally, the "AiRlebnisweg" in Amecke at Sorpesee is a barrier-free adventure trail, making it suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Kreis Soest?

The lakes are generally enjoyable year-round, but the warmer months from spring to early autumn (March to October) are ideal for water sports, swimming, and outdoor activities. During this period, facilities like Alberssee Beach are open, and various events take place. Winter offers a different charm for hiking, though water activities are limited.

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

Yes, both Möhnesee and Sorpesee areas offer a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and accommodation options. The redesigned promenade in Langscheid at Sorpesee, known as "Sorpe Boulevard," is particularly noted for its cafes and restaurants. Around Möhnesee, you'll find many cafes along the lakeside, especially on the South Shore of Lake Möhnesee.

Are dogs allowed on trails and in lake areas?

While specific regulations can vary, many trails around the lakes are dog-friendly. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the Hevearm Nature Reserve at Lake Möhne, and to check local signage for any restrictions in designated swimming or beach areas.

What makes Möhnesee unique compared to other lakes in the region?

Möhnesee, often called the "Westphalian Sea," is one of Germany's largest reservoirs. Its unique features include the impressive Möhnesee Dam, the Möhnesee Tower with panoramic views, and its connection between the Soest Börde and the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park, offering a blend of nature, history, and diverse leisure sports.

What are the natural features and wildlife I might encounter?

The lakes are nestled in scenic landscapes, connecting to the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park. You can expect to see diverse waterfowl, especially in nature reserves like the Hevearm Nature Reserve at Lake Möhne and the Möhneauen, which are important for birdwatching. The surrounding forests offer opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.

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Find the best lakes around Kreis Soest per region:

GesekeWarsteinRüthenWerlWelverBad SassendorfLippstadtLippetalAnröchteEnseMöhneseeLippeaueWickede (Ruhr)Erwitte

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