Top 20 Lakes around Porta Westfalica

The Hohenrode Floodplain Nature Reserve is an ecological highlight in the Weser Valley near Rinteln and an excellent destination for nature-loving cyclists. This fascinating landscape stretches across an area of approximately 127 hectares in a bend of the Weser River – a successful example of renaturation and sustainable nature conservation in a former gravel mining area. Since the 1990s, the floodplain landscape has been managed by the NABU Rinteln group. What was once an industrial mining site has been transformed into a mosaic of shallow water zones, gravel pits, islands, oxbow lakes, and riparian forests. This diversity has created an important refuge for numerous endangered animal and plant species. The area is particularly known for its rich birdlife: Common terns, white-tailed eagles, ospreys, black storks, and waders find breeding or resting sites here. An ornithological highlight is the successful reintroduction of the common tern, which is breeding here for the first time in over 100 years. Visitors can use an observation tower and the Dieter Eggersmann observation hut, from which animals can be observed in their natural habitat. Information panels explain the special features of the habitat, its history, and the contribution of the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) to the maintenance and development of the protected area. The play of light over the still waters is particularly impressive in the early morning hours or at sunset. The floodplain landscape is located directly on the Weser Cycle Route and is therefore perfect as a stopover or destination for a nature-oriented bike ride. Access is via a gravel parking lot near Hohenrode. NABU offers regular guided tours of the area – on the first Sunday of even-numbered months at 11 a.m. Those who want to experience the slow change of nature and understand the dynamics of a river landscape will find in the Hohenrode floodplain landscape an inspiring example of how nature can be left to its own devices and still be full of life – ideal for a peaceful break on the bike.

Lake Doktorsee in Rinteln is a popular local recreation area directly on the Weser River and an excellent destination for cyclists seeking to combine nature, leisure activities, and relaxation. The lake originated from a former gravel pit and was converted into a recreational lake in the 1970s. Today, the site covers approximately 152 hectares and offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. The location is ideal for cyclists: Lake Doktorsee is located directly on the Weser Cycle Route, one of Germany's most famous long-distance cycle routes, and only about one kilometer from Rinteln's old town. Those on a tour will find a welcome opportunity for a break or a longer stay here. The camping and leisure park at Lake Doktorsee offers spacious pitches for tents, campervans, and caravans, as well as numerous rental accommodations – from simple sleeping barrels to comfortable chalets with lake views. Modern restroom facilities, a well-stocked grocery store, and two restaurants ensure comfort during your stay. The lake itself offers a variety of activities: an approximately 800-meter-long sandy beach invites you to swim, along with a large waterslide, sunbathing lawns, an adventure mini-golf course, and a floating lake sauna with a view over the water—ideal for relaxing after a long day of cycling. Pedal boats and stand-up paddleboards are available for water sports enthusiasts. Families also get their money's worth, thanks to several playgrounds and an entertainment program during peak season.

Pause and enjoy the view

curious picture with the bike in the tree

Beautiful view over the NSG Auenlandschaft Hohenrode.

... a really great park 🌳 along the Werre 💦 with very nice routes for “walking”!!! 👍👟

Perfect for a little break with a view.

A beautiful natural landscape, very quiet and really worth seeing.