Lakes around Nordkirchen are situated in the Münsterland region, characterized by a landscape of forests, meadows, and waterways. The area features both natural and artificially created lakes, offering diverse environments for recreation and nature observation. These bodies of water contribute to the region's appeal for outdoor activities. The surrounding areas include historical sites and natural reserves.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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Popular around Nordkirchen
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Gravel biking around Nordkirchen
This section of the route is a well-paved footpath and cycle path with a view of the species-rich Lippe and Lippeauen nature reserve. With a bit of luck, you might even see a kingfisher.
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Every 100m a highlight "Datteln-Hamm Canal"... One might think it is at least the Great Wall of China"
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From here it is only a few meters to Schwansbell Castle in the north and Lake Horstmar with a café in the south.
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Gas and coal are mainly transported via the canal to the power plants in Lünen, Bergkamen and Hamm. There are also several marinas for pleasure boats.
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The Datteln-Hamm Canal near Lünen is very idyllic and has a total length of around 50 km from Hamm to Datteln.
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Since 1914, the Datteln-Hamm Canal has connected the eastern Ruhr area with the cities of Hamm and Lünen to the West German canal network. From the branch from the Dortmund-Ems Canal near Datteln, it runs south of the Lippe and ends after 47 km at the height of the Hamm-Uentrop power plant. The originally planned continuation to Lippstadt was no longer pursued after the Second World War. Source: WSV. en
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The canal invites you for beautiful bike rides or walks 😍
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Great lake with many possibilities. Be it swimming, boating or fishing. Great.
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The lakes around Nordkirchen offer diverse natural settings. For instance, Ternscher Lake is surrounded by an oak forest and meadows, providing a peaceful atmosphere. Klutensee is a nature reserve where you can observe various water birds along its circular trail. The Horstmarer Lake Beach is part of the 60-hectare Seepark Lünen, which includes quiet zones and nature protection areas, as well as expansive meadows and perennial gardens.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Ternscher Lake features a sandy beach, sunbathing lawn, and even Germany's largest floating climbing garden, the "Aqua-Climb." The Horstmarer Lake Beach within Seepark Lünen offers a well-maintained bathing beach and large green areas with leisure activities for children during holidays. The park also has a unique "Horstmarer Loch" transformed into a natural amphitheater.
You can enjoy a variety of water sports. Ternscher Lake is popular for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and fishing. It also has a diving platform. Klutensee is suitable for swimming and fishing, with good water quality. The Horstmarer Lake Beach offers a clean bathing beach for swimming and sunbathing.
Absolutely. Klutensee has a circular hiking and cycling trail perfect for observing water birds. The area around Nordkirchen offers numerous routes for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find many options for hiking, gravel biking, and cycling, including routes that pass by lakes like Ternscher Lake.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Even in winter, circular walks around lakes like Klutensee can be very scenic.
Yes, visitors can find amenities at several locations. Ternscher Lake has a beach café and kiosk for refreshments and snacks. At Horstmarer Lake Beach within Seepark Lünen, there is also a restaurant or café available for visitors.
Fishing is a popular activity at some of the lakes. At Ternscher Lake, fishing licenses are available at the reception. Klutensee also allows fishing, with a local fishing club maintaining a clubhouse on the shore and various species like pike, red feather, and roach present.
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or recreational, the surrounding region has historical significance. Klutensee, for example, was formed during the construction of the Dortmund-Ems Canal in 1936/37. The Horstmarer Lake Beach is located within Seepark Lünen, which once hosted a state garden show in 1996 and incorporates former mining areas. Nearby, you can also find attractions like Schloss Nordkirchen.
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the clear waters and sandy beaches for swimming and relaxation, especially at Ternscher Lake. The well-maintained parks and trails, like those around Horstmarer Lake Beach, are also highly appreciated for leisurely strolls and family outings. The komoot community has shared over 1700 photos and given more than 3700 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Yes, particularly around Ternscher Lake, you can find camping options. These include pitches, safari tents, and holiday homes, some of which offer direct lake views, making it convenient for an extended stay.
Yes, the lakes provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. Klutensee is a designated nature reserve where you can observe various water birds that use the lake as a breeding area. The circular trail around the lake is ideal for bird watching.
Many areas offer scenic views. From certain vantage points within Seepark Lünen, near Horstmarer Lake Beach, you can even get an unusual perspective of ships traversing the Datteln-Hamm Canal above. The oak forests and meadows surrounding Ternscher Lake also provide picturesque settings.


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