Top 20 Lakes around Gönnheim
Best lakes around Gönnheim offer diverse natural experiences in the Palatinate region. The area surrounding Gönnheim features several distinct bodies of water, providing varied opportunities for visitors. These include ecologically significant bog ponds and unique basalt quarry lakes. Exploring the nature in Gönnheim area allows for easy walks around lakes and observation of diverse aquatic ecosystems.
Best lakes around Gönnheim
- The most popular lakes is Ungeheuersee, a lake and natural monument that is a flat bog pond fed by…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Ungeheuersee
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Basalt Lake South Quarry (Forst, Palatinate)
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Basalt Lake (Nordbruch)
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It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt …
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Lambsheimer Weiher
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View of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey
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Tips from the Community
So no one has to slip through the fence to take photos
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Something really great was built there. The platform was newly installed and now you have a great view of the quarry and the lake.
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Since June 2024, there has been an observation platform on the edge of the Nordbruch crater lake, which offers a great view of one of the two basalt lakes. Information board no. 7 next to the viewing platform tells the interesting story of this quarry: "The basalt deposit around Forst is 820 m long and 260 m wide and is slightly dumbbell-shaped. The Margaretental runs through the middle of the deposit, which is why the basalt had to be mined in TWO separate quarries. The north quarry was the first to be opened up in 1841, but production there was only for the quarry's own needs. Five years later, in 1846, mining also began in the south quarry. In 1897, mining in the north quarry was stopped until a lease agreement with the municipality of Forst made further mining possible in 1911. A 2800 m long cable car was built to transport the extracted rock, which ended directly at the railway line near Deidesheim and was only replaced by a transport road in 1969. Mining in the south quarry was stopped in 1964. In December 1990, operations in Nordbruch finally ceased. Following the closure, both sites were recultivated and officially returned to nature in 2011."
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Platform with a great view of the basalt lake deep in the crater. Now nobody has to climb over the fence anymore 😉
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Great sight if you're tall enough to look over the edge. Not visible to children. Luckily it was completely cordoned off due to the brittle edges. Impressive crater!
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From the path, the ballast quarry offers an impressive view of the lake that has formed there. It is located on the Pechsteinkopf, which takes its name from the basalt found there. The ballast was mined in open-cast mining until the 1980s. In addition to a smaller crater in the southwest, a larger one was created in the northeast, which is 100 m deep and 200 m in diameter. Initially, the rock was transported by a circular cable car to a loading station with a grinding mill on the Neustadt-Bad Dürkheim railway line. The cable car was more than 2 km long and ran between Forst an der Weinstraße and Deidesheim across the German Wine Route. After basalt mining was stopped, the grinding mill and cable car were dismantled and the edges of the craters were cordoned off to prevent access. Because the water escaping in the mining area is no longer pumped out as it was during mining times, two ponds formed on the bottom of the mining craters, which are now natural biotopes.
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This is the smaller, more accessible lake that emerged after the basalt quarries near Forst were abandoned in the 1980s. Today it's a nature reserve, so you'd better avoid swimming here. It's definitely worth seeing.
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Great view super nice hiking trails
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I explore around Gönnheim's lakes?
The region offers diverse natural experiences. You can visit the Ungeheuersee, a flat bog pond and natural monument, which is part of the only raised bog in its low mountain range. Additionally, the Basalt Lake South Quarry and Basalt Lake (Nordbruch), formed in abandoned quarries, showcase impressive geological formations and have become tranquil nature reserves.
Are there any family-friendly lakes or activities near Gönnheim?
Yes, several lakes are suitable for families. The Lambsheimer Weiher is a popular spot with a restaurant and a beach bar, perfect for relaxation. The Ungeheuersee is also considered family-friendly for nature walks, and the Basalt Lake (Nordbruch) offers an observation platform with great views, which can be an interesting outing for families.
Can I swim in the lakes around Gönnheim?
While some lakes offer recreational amenities, swimming is generally advised against in nature reserves like the Basalt Lake South Quarry due to their protected status. The Lambsheimer Weiher has a beach bar, suggesting it's a popular spot for recreation, but specific swimming regulations should be checked locally.
What kind of hiking trails are available near the lakes?
You can find various hiking opportunities. For instance, the Ungeheuersee offers pleasant walks around its perimeter. For more extensive options, explore the running trails around Gönnheim, which include routes like the 'Haardtblick Wine Tavern – Burkhardshütte Picnic Area loop' that might pass near some water features.
Are there cycling routes that pass by the lakes?
Yes, the area around Gönnheim is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes, including those for touring bicycles, that might offer views of the lakes. Check out the cycling guide for Gönnheim, which features routes like the 'View of Wachtenburg Castle loop' that explore the scenic surroundings.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Gönnheim?
The lakes can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions for walking and cycling with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is ideal for recreational activities at lakes like Lambsheimer Weiher.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
While the lakes themselves are primarily natural or geological features, the wider region around Gönnheim has historical significance. For example, a viewpoint offers a view of the Herzogweiher and the ruins of Limburg Abbey, combining natural beauty with historical context.
What facilities are available at the lakes?
Facilities vary by lake. The Lambsheimer Weiher is known for having a restaurant and a beach bar. The Ungeheuersee has a PWV hut (Weisenheim) on site, though it's advisable to check opening hours. Other lakes, particularly the basalt quarries, are more focused on natural preservation and may have fewer amenities.
Are the trails around the lakes accessible for all fitness levels?
Many paths around lakes like the Ungeheuersee are relatively flat and suitable for easy walks. However, some areas, especially around the basalt quarries, might involve more uneven terrain or inclines. It's best to check individual route descriptions for difficulty levels.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Gönnheim?
Visitors appreciate the diverse natural beauty and tranquility. The Ungeheuersee is described as a 'very idyllic place,' while the basalt lakes offer 'impressive views' and a 'tranquil setting.' The Lambsheimer Weiher is loved for its recreational options and scenic views.
Are there any dog-friendly trails around the lakes?
Many natural areas and trails around the lakes are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. The serene paths around the Ungeheuersee are popular for nature walks with pets.
How long does it take to hike around the lakes?
The time required depends on the specific lake and your pace. A walk around the Ungeheuersee, which has a circumference of about 400 meters, would be a short, leisurely stroll. Exploring the areas around the larger basalt lakes or combining a lake visit with nearby trails could take several hours.
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