Best lakes around Kalkar offer diverse natural recreation opportunities. The region features a mix of artificial lakes, such as Wisseler See, and natural floodplain landscapes. These areas provide habitats for various flora and fauna, making them attractive for nature observation and outdoor activities. The surroundings often include distinctive dune landscapes, adding to the unique character of the area.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Popular around Kalkar
2-Country Route – Cycling from Germany to Netherlands
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Cycling around Kalkar
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A playground for many outdoor activists.
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The Xanten North Sea is no longer an insider tip.
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The bike path is not paved, but it is still easy to ride on all bikes.
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The Bislicher Insel is always a highlight, thousands of birds of all kinds, information from NABU. Always fantastic to drive here.
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Beautiful section through the NSG Bislicher Insel. Large meadows (flood protection area) are filled with more or less water (depending on the season and the water level of the Rhine) and thousands of different bird species.
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Very nice natural pool and leisure center with a beach and a swimming pool in the lake.
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Beautiful lake with great bike paths
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The region around Kalkar's lakes offers diverse natural features. You'll find unique dune landscapes, such as the Wisseler Dünen near Wisseler See, which are significant habitats for various plant and animal species. Many lakes are set within intact floodplain landscapes, like the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve, providing important refuges for migratory birds and diverse flora and fauna.
Yes, the lakes around Kalkar offer excellent hiking opportunities. Wisseler See, for example, serves as an ideal starting point for nature walks. You can find various trails, including moderate routes like the "Wisseler Dunes Nature Reserve – Wisseler Dünen loop from Wissel" or easier options such as the "Wissel Lake – Dog Bay loop from Wissel." For more hiking routes, explore the Hiking around Kalkar guide.
Many lakes in the Kalkar area are popular for water sports. Xanten North Sea is known as a paradise for surfers and offers boat rentals. Wisseler See also provides opportunities for swimming, sailing, surfing, and fishing, thanks to its high water quality.
Absolutely. Many lakes are family-friendly, offering a variety of activities. Xanten South Lake is a beautiful local recreation area with options for relaxing, swimming, and cycling, making it great for families. Wisseler See also features barbecue areas with picnic spots and safe swimming opportunities.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around the lakes. There are dedicated cycling paths around Wisseler See, and the Xanten lakes, including Xanten South Lake, invite visitors to cycle around them. You can find numerous routes in the Cycling around Kalkar guide, such as the "View of the Xantener Nordsee – Marina at Xantener Nordsee loop from Wissel".
The lakes around Kalkar are enjoyable year-round, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming, sailing, and other water sports. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, and are excellent for birdwatching, especially at the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve during migratory seasons.
Yes, the Bislicher Insel Nature Reserve is particularly renowned as a paradise for ornithologists and an important refuge for migratory birds. Its intact floodplain landscapes make it an excellent spot for observing diverse flora and fauna.
Lakes like Xanten North Sea feature ports with restaurants, events, and facilities for boat rentals. Wisseler See also has amenities like barbecue areas and picnic spots, and you can find cafes and accommodation options nearby.
Wisseler See is unique due to its combination of high water quality, making it excellent for bathing, and its distinctive surrounding dune landscape, known as the Wisseler Dünen. These sand dunes, reaching up to 8 meters high, create a special ecosystem that is both a natural habitat and a recreational area.
Yes, there are several easy walking trails. For instance, around Wisseler See, you can find routes like the "Wissel Lake – Dog Bay loop from Wissel," which is an easy 4.7 km walk. Many lakes also have accessible paths suitable for a relaxed outing.
Visitors frequently praise the diverse recreational opportunities and the natural beauty of the lakes. They appreciate the options for relaxing, hiking, swimming, and cycling, as well as the well-maintained local recreation areas. The excellent water quality and unique landscapes, like the dunes near Wisseler See, are also highly valued.


Still not found your perfect lake around Kalkar? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.