Top 20 Lakes around Möhnesee
Best lakes around Möhnesee provides an overview of the prominent artificial lake and reservoir in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. This large water body, often called the "Sea of Westphalia," is the largest reservoir in the Sauerland region by area. It is situated between the Soest Börde and the Arnsberg Forest, offering natural landscapes and serving as a European bird sanctuary. The area provides a variety of outdoor activities and is a significant regional attraction.
Best lakes around Möhnesee
- The most popular lakes is Möhnesee Dam, a man_made_monument that is over 100 years old, 40 meters high, and 650 meters long. This impressive structure is considered a main attraction of the region.
- Another must-see spot is View of the Möhnesee and the bridge, a viewpoint offering a perspective over the Möhnetal. This location is directly on the Möhneradweg on the south bank.
- Visitors also love South Shore of Lake Möhnesee, a lake area with cafes and views. The Möhnesee is a European bird sanctuary, providing a resting place for water and migratory birds.
- Möhnesee is known for its large artificial lake and reservoir. The area offers diverse water bodies for exploration and recreation.
- The lakes around Möhnesee are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 4100 upvotes and over 1000 photos shared.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Möhnesee Dam
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Möhne Dam
Highlight • Monument
From Wikipedia
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
South Shore of Lake Möhnesee
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
View from Kanzel Bridge
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Möhnesee near Körbecke
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Möhnesee.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Möhnesee
Germany's Sauerland Forest Route – Views and discoveries
Hike through history in Germany’s Ruhr area – WestfalenWanderWeg
Fun, experience, power – cycling in the Sauerland region
Pure Wanderlust — day Tours in the Sauerland
Through the Land of 1,000 Mountains – road cycling in Sauerland
The most beautiful swimming lakes in North Rhine-Westphalia
The best swimming lakes in the Ruhr Area
Zauberhaft mystisch - Die Sauerland-Waldroute
Hiking around Möhnesee
Cycling around Möhnesee
Other adventures around Möhnesee
Tips from the Community
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. 😜😁
8
0
The Möhnesee is always worth a trip.
3
0
The Möhnesee is one of the oldest dams in Germany. The 1908-1913 quarry stone barrier wall is a monument and the main attraction of the Möhnesee. The dam wall is 650 meters long and 30 meters at its highest point. The southern half of the Möhnesee is completely surrounded by the Arnsberg Forest Nature Park. The varied and extensive forest area is ideal for relaxing walks and long hikes. The circular route around the lake is great, you should plan a tour during the week, it's just too crowded at the weekend.
11
0
Calculations of the future demand for drinking and process water for the growing Ruhr area in 1904 had shown that three times the amount would be required for the existing dams in the Ruhr river system with a storage volume of 32.4 million m³, namely around 100 million m³ storage space . By 1925, it was even estimated that it would grow to almost 200 million m³. Therefore, on November 28, 1904, the general meeting of the Ruhr Dam Association decided to change the statutes to build their own dams. On May 22, 1905, the plan to build a large dam in the Möhne valley was discussed for the first time. The Möhnetalsperre was then built between 1908 and 1912[1] according to plans by the government master builder Ernst Link and a design by the Cologne architect Franz Brantzky for the dam wall at a cost of 23.5 million marks and on July 12, 1913[1] inaugurated by the Ruhr Dam Association. In the year of its inauguration, the dam was the largest dam in Europe. The former place Kettlersteich sank completely in the water. Most of the village of Delecke (Alt-Delecke) was also flooded. 140 farmsteads with 700 people had to give way to the lake.
3
0
Good to ride bike path beautiful area.
3
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions around Möhnesee?
The primary attractions include the impressive Möhnesee Dam, a 100-year-old engineering marvel, and the Möhnesee Tower, which offers magnificent panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding Arnsberg Forest. The lake itself, often called the "Sea of Westphalia," is a major draw for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Are there good hiking opportunities near Möhnesee?
Yes, the area around Möhnesee offers numerous hiking trails. You can find routes like the moderate "View of Lake Möhnesee – Dam of the Möhne dam loop" or the "Enze Bridge over the Heve – Möhnesee Tower loop." For more options, explore the dedicated guide for Hiking around Möhnesee.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Möhnesee?
Möhnesee is very popular for cycling. You can enjoy easy routes like the "Möhne Dam – Möhnesee Dam loop" or more challenging ones such as the "Entdecker-Route WasserWegeWinkel." The Cycling around Möhnesee guide provides a comprehensive overview of routes for various skill levels.
Is Möhnesee suitable for families?
Absolutely. Möhnesee is well-suited for families, offering activities like swimming, boat trips, and playgrounds. The Lakeside Park in Körbecke provides modern play and exercise areas. Many viewpoints, including the View of the Möhnesee and the bridge, are easily accessible and family-friendly.
What natural features can I explore around Möhnesee?
Möhnesee is nestled between the Soest Börde and the Arnsberg Forest, offering enchanting natural landscapes. It's designated as a European bird sanctuary, with areas like the Heve arm and Möhne inlet being nature reserves. You can observe thousands of waterfowl and enjoy almost untouched nature at locations such as the Kleiberg pasture landscape and Heve peninsula.
Can I do water sports at Möhnesee?
Yes, Möhnesee is a hub for water sports. The expansive lake is ideal for swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, canoeing, and even scuba diving. It's also a popular spot for anglers due to its plentiful fish stocks.
Are there any historical sites to visit near Möhnesee?
The most prominent historical site is the Möhnesee Dam itself, an impressive structure over 100 years old. Additionally, the Drüggelte Chapel, located in the municipality of Möhnesee, offers another cultural and historical point of interest.
What do visitors enjoy most about Möhnesee?
Visitors frequently praise the stunning views, especially from the Möhnesee Tower and the View of the Möhnesee and the bridge. The diverse outdoor activities, from cycling around the lake to enjoying cafes along the South Shore of Lake Möhnesee, are also highly appreciated. The blend of natural beauty and recreational options makes it a favorite destination.
When is the best time to visit Möhnesee?
Möhnesee is a year-round destination, but the warmer months are ideal for water sports and extensive outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Autumn is particularly good for windsurfing. The area's natural beauty, including its bird sanctuary status, makes it appealing in spring and autumn for nature observation.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walks?
Yes, there are easier options available. For instance, the "Torhaus at Möhnesee – Hunting Lodge Sankt Meinolf loop from Delecke" is rated as easy. Many paths around the lake are relatively flat, making them suitable for relaxed strolls. You can find more details in the Hiking around Möhnesee guide.
Can I find places to eat or drink around Möhnesee?
Yes, the area around Möhnesee offers various options for refreshments. Along the South Shore of Lake Möhnesee, you'll find many cafes where you can take a break and enjoy the view. There are also restaurants available to cater to visitors.
Is Möhnesee a good spot for birdwatching?
Absolutely. Möhnesee is designated as a European bird sanctuary within the EU's Natura 2000 system. Specific areas like the Heve arm and Möhne inlet are recognized nature reserves, serving as important resting places for thousands of waterfowl, including tufted ducks, mallards, and coots.
Most popular routes around Möhnesee
Most popular attractions around Möhnesee
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found your perfect lake around Möhnesee? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
