Top 20 Lakes around Zwiesel
Best lakes around Zwiesel offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities within the Bavarian Forest. Zwiesel, known for its glass production and as a climatic health resort, is surrounded by a landscape shaped by glacial activity. The region features a variety of lakes, from cirque lakes with unique geological features to reservoirs and natural swimming areas. These bodies of water provide settings for outdoor activities and natural exploration, including popular trails around Zwiesel lakes.
Best lakes around Zwiesel
- The most popular lakes is Great Arber Lake, a lake that is a cirque lake from the last ice age. A special feature is its "swinging lawns" or floating islands, which are mainly found on its western edge.
- Another must-see spot is Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl, a hut with a beer garden in the forest. Visitors can expect an idyllic inn with a view over a pond, offering a rustic dining experience.
- Visitors also love Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir, a dam that serves as flood protection, drinking water storage, and energy generation. Information boards provide insights into its construction and functions.
- Zwiesel is known for cirque lakes, natural swimming lakes, and reservoirs. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct natural features or recreational facilities.
- The lakes around Zwiesel are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 2900 upvotes and more than 1800 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Great Arber Lake
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Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl
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Little Arber Lake
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Arbersee Bog
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Natural shoreline of the Großer Arbersee
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Tips from the Community
The boardwalk leads over the Arberseemoor.
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It was formerly used for 🪵transport by opening the weir and allowing the water flow down the valley.
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Here at the Arbersee it is simply wonderfully beautiful, whether in summer or in winter. Always worth a visit 👌 From here there are numerous great opportunities for hiking and biking 👍
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A visit to Gr. Arbersee is always something beautiful. Here you can just relax or go hiking and biking 😉
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A beautiful mountain lake that can be comfortably circled.
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Very beautiful mountain lake. It is worth walking a round.
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Nature conservation is very important on the Arber.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I find at the lakes near Zwiesel?
The lakes around Zwiesel, particularly the Great Arber Lake and Little Arber Lake, are known for their unique geological features. Both are cirque or moraine lakes, relics from the last ice age. A special highlight at both Arber lakes are the "swinging lawns" or floating islands, which are moor blankets that detached from the lakebed and can change position with wind direction.
Are there hiking trails around the lakes near Zwiesel?
Yes, there are numerous hiking opportunities. For instance, you can enjoy picturesque circular hikes around the Great Arber Lake and the Little Arber Lake. The circuit around the Little Arber Lake typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes. For more options, you can explore various easy hikes around Zwiesel.
What other outdoor activities are available near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails around Zwiesel, including moderate and difficult options. For cyclists, there are also several road cycling routes that explore the scenic surroundings.
Are the lakes around Zwiesel family-friendly?
Many areas are family-friendly. The Great Arber Lake and Little Arber Lake are suitable for families, offering easy circular walks. Additionally, the ZEB Family Spa Natural Swimming Lake in Zwiesel provides an idyllic setting with an expansive lawn, sun loungers, a beach volleyball court, and a giant pirate ship for children, making it an excellent option for families.
Are there wheelchair-accessible trails near the lakes?
Yes, the Great Arber Lake offers wheelchair-accessible sections along its natural shoreline, allowing visitors of all mobilities to enjoy the picturesque mountain lake.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Zwiesel?
The lakes are beautiful year-round. The Great Arber Lake is described as wonderfully beautiful whether in summer or winter, always worth a visit. Summer offers pleasant conditions for hiking and swimming, while winter provides a serene, picturesque landscape for different activities.
Are there places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, you'll find dining options. The Great Arber Lake has a restaurant, and the Trifter Inn Schwellhäusl is an idyllic inn with a beer garden located in the forest, offering a rustic dining experience with a view over a pond.
What is the Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir used for?
The Frauenau Drinking Water Reservoir primarily serves as flood protection, a crucial source for drinking water storage, and for energy generation. Information boards around the dam provide details about its construction and purpose, set within a pleasant landscape.
Can I go swimming in the lakes near Zwiesel?
While some natural lakes might be suitable for a dip, the ZEB Family Spa Natural Swimming Lake within Zwiesel is specifically designed for swimming and recreation. It offers a tranquil setting with an expansive lawn and various amenities for a relaxing day by the water.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Zwiesel?
Visitors particularly appreciate the pure nature and serene environment. The unique floating islands at the Arber lakes are a fascinating spectacle. The picturesque mountain lakes offer great opportunities for relaxing, hiking, and biking, with many describing the experience as 'simply wonderfully beautiful'.
Where can I get a good view of the Great Arber Lake?
For a stunning panoramic view, head to the View of the Großer Arbersee from the Mittagsplatzl. This super great place offers a wonderful vantage point over the lake, especially if you catch it at a quiet time to enjoy the silence.
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