Top 20 Lakes around Nettetal
Best lakes around Nettetal are situated within the Schwalm-Nette Nature Park, close to the Dutch border. This region is known for its lake landscape, often called the "Nette-Seen," which includes more than 10 lakes. These lakes are primarily artificial, formed by damming and historical peat extraction, and are fed by the Nette river. The area offers diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around Nettetal
- The most popular lakes is Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee, a lake that is wonderful to walk or cycle around, with small paths leading to fishing piers offering charming views. This area is a significant natural experience area and one of the oldest nature reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia.
- Another must-see spot is Hariksee (Harik Lake), a lake that is accessible on foot via a premium hiking trail or by bike. Visitors can find places to stop for a break and rent pedal boats to explore the lake.
- Visitors also love Schroliksee Viewing Platform, a viewpoint with explanatory boards about resident swimming birds. This lake landscape was declared a nature reserve in 1938, highlighting its ecological importance.
- Nettetal is known for its diverse lake types, including large lakes like Großer De-Witt-See, natural reserves such as the Krickenbecker Seen, and family-friendly areas like Windmühlenbruch. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different interests.
- The lakes around Nettetal are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3600 upvotes and over 1400 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee
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De Witt Lake
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Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center
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Krickenbecker Lakes
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Schroliksee Viewing Platform
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Tips from the Community
You automatically interrupt your tour to take a look over the lakes.
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Great starting point for long hikes.
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The Krickenbecker lakes are always popular.
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At different times of the day, the lakes always offer beautiful photo opportunities.
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These information boards are set up in many places. Helps visitors with their visits.
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Birds like to use the gate in front of the outflow of the lake as a perch.
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In the information center you can learn a lot about the surrounding nature and wildlife. The beaver is currently the focus of an exhibition.
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A paradise for nature lovers! Must have been. Just look for a nice bench and pause for a few minutes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for nature walks and birdwatching in Nettetal?
For nature walks and birdwatching, the Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee are ideal. This area is one of the oldest nature reserves in North Rhine-Westphalia, known for its rich diversity of birds and plants, marshlands, and forests. You can also find explanatory boards about resident swimming birds at the Schroliksee Viewing Platform, which is part of the Krickenbecker Seen.
Are there family-friendly lakes with activities for children?
Yes, Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee are considered family-friendly. Additionally, Windmühlenbruch features a large children's playground with a pirate ship, zip line, and a water play area in summer, making it particularly attractive for families.
Where can I go swimming in the Nettetal lakes?
The Großer De-Witt-See is a prominent lake in the Nette-Seen complex and is suitable for those seeking a refreshing swim on hot days. It's also great for leisurely strolls or bike rides.
What kind of hiking trails can I find around the Nettetal lakes?
The Nettetal lakes offer a variety of hiking trails. You can explore circular routes around the Krickenbecker Seen, or try the Premium Hiking Trail Nette Seen, which leads through the unique water landscape showcasing rare plants and numerous water birds. For more options, check out the Hiking around Nettetal guide.
Are there cycling routes available around the lakes?
Yes, the region is excellent for cycling. You can cycle around the Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee, or explore the area around Großer De-Witt-See and Ferkensbruch by bike. For extensive cycling tours, refer to the Cycling around Nettetal guide.
Where can I find information about the lakes and the nature reserve?
The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is an excellent starting point. It provides information boards that help visitors understand the area's natural significance and plan their visits. The Schroliksee Viewing Platform also features explanatory boards about resident birds.
What are some less crowded lakes for a peaceful visit?
While the Krickenbecker Seen are popular, lakes like Ferkensbruch, Kälberweide, and the Small and Large Breyeller See also contribute to the rich aquatic landscape and can offer a more tranquil experience for walks and relaxation by the water.
Can I rent pedal boats on any of the lakes?
Yes, at Hariksee (Harik Lake), you can find places to stop for a break and rent pedal boats to explore the lake.
What historical sites are near the Nettetal lakes?
The historic Krickenbeck Castle is situated amidst the Krickenbecker Seen landscape. While not directly accessible, it adds a historical backdrop to the natural beauty of the area and can be viewed from various points around the lakes.
What is the best time of year to visit the Nettetal lakes?
The Nettetal lakes are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant colors. Summer is ideal for swimming and water activities, while winter can provide a unique, serene experience, especially for nature observation.
Are there accessible paths for visitors with limited mobility?
The Krickenbecker Lakes Information Center is wheelchair accessible, and some paths around the lakes are generally flat and well-maintained, making them suitable for easier walks. It's advisable to check specific trail conditions for detailed accessibility information.
Where can I find viewpoints to enjoy the lake scenery?
The Schroliksee Viewing Platform offers excellent views of the lake and its birdlife. Additionally, many small paths around the Krickenbecker Lakes and Little De Wittsee lead to fishing piers that provide charming views of the water.
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