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.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
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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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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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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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