Best lakes around Gornau are found in the surrounding region of Saxony, particularly near Chemnitz and within the Ore Mountains. This area features a landscape characterized by historic ponds, significant drinking water reservoirs, and natural quarry lakes. The region offers various opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and cycling along scenic trails. Gornau's proximity to these water bodies makes it a suitable base for exploring the diverse aquatic environments of the Central Ore Mountains.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
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The dam is connected to the Neunzehnhain I and II dams and the Einsiedel dam via canals, pipelines, tunnels, and streams. A charming landscape conservation area of approximately 4,500 hectares extends around the Saidenbach Dam.
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The Saidenbach drinking water reservoir was built between 1929 and 1933 northeast of Pockau-Lengefeld. It dams a total of six tributaries: the Forchheimer Dorfbach, Gründelbach, Haselbach, Hölzelbergbach, Lippersdorfer Bach, and Saidenbach. With over 146 hectares of water surface (22.4 million m³ of water), the reservoir is the largest reservoir in the Central Ore Mountains and also the largest drinking water reservoir in the "Central Ore Mountains" integrated water system. Together with the Einsiedel, Neunzehnhain 1, and Neunzehnhain 2 reservoirs, it provides raw water for the Einsiedel waterworks, which supplies Chemnitz and southern Saxony with drinking water. https://www.wasserwirtschaft.sachsen.de/TS_Saidenbach.html
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When the forest is being swept (it was closed because of tree work) we have to take detours.
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Worthwhile hike to the two dams Neunzehnhain 1 and 2
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The Neunzehnhain Dam was built between 1911 and 1914 in the Bornwald near Pockau-Lengefeld in the Ore Mountains. It was put into operation shortly before the outbreak of the First World War. Due to the rapid industrialization of the Chemnitz area at the end of the 19th century and the enormous population growth of that time, water consumption rose rapidly. The Neunzehnhain Dam, which was only inaugurated in 1908, could no longer meet the water demand just three years later - and was therefore given a larger sister to accompany it.
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Warmbad is a district of the town of Wolkenstein. Warmbad has been a state-approved health resort in the Free State of Saxony with the status of a spa for more than a hundred years. The oldest and warmest thermal spring in Saxony is located here.
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A nice place for young and old 🦊🙏
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Beautiful pond and park to relax and walk 👍
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Visitors particularly enjoy the historic Castle Pond, Chemnitz, known for its recreational activities and charming island. Another favorite is the Neunzehnhain II Dam, offering splendid views from its crest over the reservoir and surrounding woodlands. For a more natural setting, Großer Steinbruch Lake is appreciated for hiking and relaxation.
Yes, several lakes offer great experiences for families. Castle Pond, Chemnitz, is ideal with its boat rentals, island, and small bird aviary. The areas around Saidenbach Dam and Neunzehnhain Dams also feature easy hiking trails suitable for families, especially from spring through autumn.
The region around Gornau's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking and cycling on well-maintained trails, particularly around the Saidenbach Dam and Neunzehnhain Dams. For more structured routes, consider exploring the gravel biking, road cycling, or general cycling routes available in the area.
While Castle Pond, Chemnitz, offers rowing and pedal boat rentals during warmer months, swimming and water sports are generally not permitted in the Saidenbach Dam or Neunzehnhain Dams. These are crucial drinking water reservoirs, and strict regulations are in place to protect water quality.
The Castle Pond, Chemnitz, has a rich history, originally created as a fish pond in 1493 and later transformed into a public recreation area. It features a historic island and offers views of the 15th-century castle church. The Neunzehnhain Dams are also protected historical monuments, with an information pavilion at Neunzehnhain II detailing its construction and history.
Yes, the areas surrounding the Saidenbach Dam and Neunzehnhain Dams are particularly well-suited for hiking. You'll find well-maintained trails offering scenic views across the water and through forested hills. The public footpath along the crest of the Saidenbach Dam allows for uninterrupted circular walks, and the crest of Neunzehnhain II Dam is also accessible for visitors.
The lakes are enjoyable throughout the year, but spring through autumn (March to October) is particularly inviting. During these months, the weather is pleasant for hiking and cycling, and recreational activities like boat rentals at Castle Pond, Chemnitz, are available.
Many of the natural areas and trails around the lakes are dog-friendly, such as Großer Steinbruch Lake. However, specific regulations may apply, especially near drinking water reservoirs like Saidenbach and Neunzehnhain Dams, where access to the immediate shores might be restricted or fenced. Always keep dogs on a leash and respect local signage.
Near Castle Pond, Chemnitz, you'll find several cafes and restaurants that complement the recreational experience. For the more secluded dam areas like Saidenbach and Neunzehnhain, options might be found in nearby towns such as Lengefeld or Pockau-Lengefeld.
For Castle Pond, Chemnitz, being in the city center, it is well-served by public transport and has nearby parking options. For the dams in the Ore Mountains, access typically involves driving to designated parking areas, from which trails lead to the reservoirs. Specific public transport options to these more rural locations may be limited.
The Neunzehnhain Dams (I and II) are notable for supplying exceptionally high-quality drinking water to Chemnitz, with Neunzehnhain II potentially having the purest raw water in Saxony. They are also impressive curved gravity dams and protected historical monuments, offering splendid views from their accessible crests over the idyllic, densely wooded surroundings.
Visitors frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails for hiking and cycling, the opportunities for relaxation, and the scenic views. The historical aspects of places like Castle Pond and the impressive engineering of the dams also draw positive comments.


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