Best lakes around Hohenahr include the Aartalsee, a significant artificial lake in the upper Aar Valley within the Lahn-Dill district of Germany. This reservoir, completed in 1991, is the second-largest lake area in Hesse, originally built for flood protection and now a popular recreational destination. The region also features smaller lakes within the Lahnaue nature reserve, which are important for wildlife, particularly waterfowl. Hohenahr offers a blend of active recreation and natural beauty around its water bodies.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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From the dam, you have a beautiful view of the upper part of the Aartalsee and a stretch downstream.
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Beautiful, easy tour mostly along the Lahn; almost always flat cycle path, almost entirely asphalted, but unfortunately often very "bumpy"
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Beautiful, undulating scooter route with wide views.
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The Lahnaue nature reserve includes wet meadows and several lakes that were created from former gravel pits. The area has developed into an important resting and transit area for waterfowl. So always stay on the path. If you keep quiet, you have a good chance of spotting some of the shy birds.
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Unfortunately, only one point is marked here and not a section. Yes, the route from Atzbach to Wetzlar is beautiful, but there are already several highlights.
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Easy to ride cycle path right next to the Lahn The area is also really beautiful
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A particularly beautiful and quiet section on the Lahn cycle path
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The Aartalsee Dam and Aartal Reservoir Dam are significant man-made monuments offering views of the lake. The Aartalsee itself is a hub for recreation, including swimming, fishing, sailing, and surfing. A scenic 7.5-kilometer panoramic path encircles the lake, perfect for walking, jogging, cycling, and inline skating.
Yes, the Aartalsee is very family-friendly. It features a beach with sandy shores for swimming and sunbathing. The panoramic path around the lake is suitable for all ages, and the area offers various recreational opportunities. The Lahn River Cycle Route is also an easy-to-ride path suitable for families.
The pre-dam area of the Aartalsee features a nature reserve with 21 artificially created islands that serve as habitats for local animal species. Additionally, the Stork Nest in the Lahnaue Nature Reserve is an important resting and transit area for waterfowl, where you have a good chance of spotting shy birds and storks.
You'll find a variety of cycling options. The Lahn River Cycle Route offers an easy-to-ride path next to the Lahn. For more extensive rides, there are several road cycling routes, such as the "Aartalsee Dam – Aartal Reservoir Dam loop" (45.1 km), and mountain biking trails like the "View over the Aartalsee – Aartalsee Dam loop" (16.8 km). You can find more details on the Road Cycling Routes around Hohenahr and MTB Trails around Hohenahr guide pages.
Yes, a popular 7.5-kilometer circular path around the Aartalsee is ideal for walking, jogging, and inline skating. For runners, trails like the "Aartalsee Loop Trail – Aartal Reservoir Dam loop" (7.5 km) offer moderate difficulty. More running options can be found on the Running Trails around Hohenahr guide page.
Yes, the Aartalsee offers amenities including a restaurant and café called "Seeterrasse" with pleasant views. The Aartalgrill at Lake Aartal is also a great spot for a cozy rest with cool drinks and delicious food, especially recommended at sunset.
Yes, the Aartalsee is well-equipped with approximately 600 paid parking spaces. There are also 10 motorhome pitches with supply and disposal stations.
The Aartalsee is enjoyable year-round. During summer, it's perfect for swimming and water sports, with the DLRG monitoring the bathing water quality. The panoramic path is suitable for walking and cycling in spring, summer, and autumn. Winter walks can also be picturesque, offering a tranquil experience.
While specific regulations for dogs vary, generally, dogs are welcome on trails around the Aartalsee. However, it's important to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserve areas like the Lahnaue, to protect local wildlife.
The bathing water quality at Aartalsee is regularly monitored and has consistently met hygienic standards, making it a safe and pleasant place for swimming during the summer months.
The panoramic path around the Aartalsee is generally well-maintained and suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling, suggesting it is largely accessible. The Aartalsee Dam is also listed as wheelchair accessible, indicating efforts to provide inclusive access.
The Aartalsee was originally constructed for flood protection, completed in 1991. It was a response to devastating floods in the Dill area, particularly the one in February 1984. The Aartal Reservoir Dam stands as a testament to this engineering effort, designed to regulate the Lahn area's flood protection.


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