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Freyung-Grafenau

Waldhäuser Wald

Top 20 Lakes around Waldhäuser Wald

Best lakes around Waldhäuser Wald are situated within a forested region known for its historical water management and natural landscapes. This area, part of the Bavarian Forest National Park, features both natural glacial lakes and artificial reservoirs. The terrain around these lakes often includes dense forest and offers various Waldhäuser Wald hiking trails. These bodies of water served historical purposes such as timber rafting and now provide natural features for exploration.

Best lakes around Waldhäuser Wald

  • The most popular lakes is Martinsklause Reservoir, a lake that was created in the 19th century for wood drift. It is preserved as a cultural monument within the Bavarian Forest National Park.
  • Another must-see spot is Lake Rachel, a natural glacial lake. This lake is one of three Karseen in the Bavarian Forest, formed during the Ice Age, and is the only natural lake in the national park.
  • Visitors also love Reschbachklause, a historical lake. Built in 1860, this dam was used for wood drift and is now maintained as a cultural monument.
  • Waldhäuser Wald is known for both natural glacial lakes and historical artificial reservoirs. These include Karseen and Klausen, which are dams built for timber rafting.
  • The lakes around Waldhäuser Wald are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 1400 upvotes and 860 photos shared across various highlights.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Martinsklause Reservoir

Highlight • Lake

The Martinsklause is one of the best preserved Klausen (also called thresholds) in the Bavarian Forest National Park. As an artificial reservoir, the water was created in the 19th century for the wood drift. Outside the snowmelt times, the mountain streams did not have enough water to transport wood into the valley. That is why the water was dammed up and flooded out up to two times a day. The building is now preserved as a cultural monument.

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Lake Rachel

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The Rachelsee is one of three Karseen of the Bavarian forest. It is located in the extreme north of the municipality of Sankt Oswald-Riedlhütte. On the Czech side of this vast forest area there are another five karst lakes in Šumava. The lakes and the surrounding area were declared a nature reserve in 1918.

Rachelsee
Rachelsee, top view.JPG
Geographical location
in the Bavarian Forest
outflow
Seebach → Ilz
dates
coordinates
48 ° 58 '31 "N, 13 ° 24' 7" E
Rachel Lake (Bavaria)
Rachelsee
Altitude above sea level
1070.5 m
area
5.7 ha
length
350 m
width
205 m
volume
180,000 m³
Maximum depth
13.2 m
Middle deep
3.2 m
PH value
5.0
catchment area
58 ha
particularities

no fish or amphibians

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Reschbachklause

Highlight • Lake

The refuge and the table / bench corner on the other side of the pool are ideal for a short break with a snack. You can also see traces of the local residents of the Reschbachklause along the basin ...

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Großarmschlag Reservoir

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The idyllic reservoir is lined by dense forest and offers you a perfect photo opportunity. Here the water of the Große Ohe is dammed up and used to generate electricity.

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This is where the drinking water for the Deggendorf region comes from - and the path around the artificial lake is a beautiful, relaxed MTB route for connoisseurs.

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Popular around Waldhäuser Wald

Family-friendly hikes in the Bavarian Forest National Park

Lovely hikes in the Bavarian Forest National Park

Let nature be nature – hiking in the Bavarian Forest

Hiking around Waldhäuser Wald

Cycling around Waldhäuser Wald

Road Cycling Routes around Waldhäuser Wald

MTB Trails around Waldhäuser Wald

Running Trails around Waldhäuser Wald

Mountain Hikes around Waldhäuser Wald

Gravel biking around Waldhäuser Wald

Other adventures around Waldhäuser Wald

Family-friendly hikes in the Bavarian Forest National Park

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Nationalpark Bayerischer Wald

Tips from the Community

Alwin
July 25, 2025, Martinsklause

Small, picturesque reservoir. It reminds me a lot of the Harz Mountains.🫶

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9

0

There are great hiking and biking trails around the drinking water dam 👌 everyone gets their money's worth here 👍 This place is 100% worth a visit

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19

2

Scout Jens
February 13, 2022, Martinsklause

A very beautiful lake that was once created for the timber drift and renovated as a monument. Here again one of the well-made and easy-to-understand information boards in the national park on this very topic.

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10

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Sepp
December 19, 2021, Martinsklause

Invites you to linger.

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10

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Jakwandern
October 15, 2021, Reschbachklause

Very nice and quiet location. Great place to rest. The information board at this location provides information about the lake and the hermitage.

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3

1

Sascha 🗻
September 12, 2021, Rachelsee

Those who descend from Rachel to Spiegelau have multiple chances to see the lake. The best view is from the Rachel Chapel window.

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7

0

Well suited for a rest on the hike. There are benches on the bank and there is also enough space for a picnic.

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2

0

A quiet corner of nature, where you can relax and linger.

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2

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most historically significant lakes around Waldhäuser Wald?

The region features several historical artificial reservoirs, known as Klausen, which were built for timber rafting. Notable examples include Martinsklause Reservoir, created in the 19th century, and Reschbachklause, built in 1860. Both are preserved as cultural monuments within the Bavarian Forest National Park. The Teufelsbachklause is another technical monument from the timber industry.

Are there any natural glacial lakes in the Waldhäuser Wald area?

Yes, Lake Rachel is a natural glacial lake, formed during the Ice Age. It is one of only three Karseen in the Bavarian Forest and the sole natural lake within the national park, known for its idyllic setting and status as a nature reserve.

Which lakes are suitable for families with children?

Several lakes around Waldhäuser Wald are considered family-friendly. Martinsklause Reservoir, Reschbachklause, and Teufelsbachklause all offer facilities and are suitable for family outings. The Großarmschlag Reservoir is also a great option, offering wheelchair accessibility for broader family inclusion.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see around these lakes?

The lakes are nestled within the dense forests of the Bavarian Forest National Park. You'll encounter natural glacial formations, historical dam structures, and scenic viewpoints. For instance, Lake Rachel is surrounded by a nature reserve, while Großarmschlag Reservoir is lined by dense forest, offering excellent photo opportunities.

Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Waldhäuser Wald?

Absolutely. The region is excellent for hiking. You can find various trails, including those around the lakes. For more challenging routes, consider the Mountain Hikes around Waldhäuser Wald. There are also numerous Running Trails around Waldhäuser Wald that pass by scenic lake areas.

What outdoor activities, besides hiking, can I do near these lakes?

Beyond hiking, the area offers opportunities for road cycling. You can explore various routes, such as those detailed in the Road Cycling Routes around Waldhäuser Wald guide, which include loops around reservoirs and through the scenic forest.

Which lake offers the best scenic views for photography?

The Großarmschlag Reservoir is highly recommended for photography, described as an idyllic spot lined by dense forest, perfect for capturing beautiful shots. Lake Rachel also offers a beautifully situated idyllic setting.

Is there wheelchair accessibility at any of the lakes?

Yes, the Großarmschlag Reservoir is noted for its wheelchair accessibility, making it a great option for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the natural beauty.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Waldhäuser Wald?

The lakes are beautiful year-round. During warmer months, they are ideal for hiking and enjoying the forest. In winter, the snow-covered landscape offers a different, serene experience, though some paths might be more challenging. The historical Klausen, like Martinsklause Reservoir, are particularly picturesque during snowmelt times when water levels are higher.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes in Waldhäuser Wald?

Visitors frequently praise the idyllic and serene atmosphere of the lakes, often highlighting them as perfect spots for a break or rest. The historical significance of the Klausen, like Martinsklause Reservoir and Reschbachklause, as cultural monuments is also a major draw, alongside the natural beauty of places like Lake Rachel.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known lakes worth exploring?

While the main highlights are popular for good reason, the region is dotted with many smaller, unnamed water bodies and streams that feed into the larger Klausen. Exploring the extensive network of trails within the Bavarian Forest National Park can lead you to tranquil, less-frequented spots, offering a sense of discovery away from the main attractions.

Can I find facilities or shelters near the lakes?

Yes, some historical sites like Reschbachklause and Teufelsbachklause include refuges or hut facilities, providing ideal spots for a short break with a snack. These often feature tables and benches for visitors.

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

Sankt Oswald-RiedlhütteSankt OswaldSpiegelauGrafenauSchönbrunner WaldNeuschönauMauther ForstHohenauSchönbergRingelaiInnernzellFürsteneckZentingRöhrnbachMauthPerlesreutSaldenburgFreyungEppenschlagWaldkirchenThurmansbangHaidmühleAnnathaler WaldLeopoldsreuter WaldSchöfwegNeureichenauPhilippsreutJandelsbrunnFrauenberger und Duschlberger WaldHinterschmidingGrainetPhilippsreuter WaldGraineter Wald

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