Top 20 Lakes around Pattensen
Lakes around Pattensen provide diverse recreational opportunities within the wider Hanover region. The town is situated near several notable lakes, offering a variety of natural and artificial aquatic environments. These areas feature landscapes ranging from floodplains to former gravel pits, suitable for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Pattensen
- The most popular lakes is Maschsee North Shore, a lake that is an artificially created recreational area. A circuit around the lake is approximately 6.5 km long.
- Another must-see spot is Großer Hemminger Teich, a lake created by gravel extraction. This lake is primarily used for fishing, and a lido is located nearby for swimming.
- Visitors also love Rudolf von Bennigsen Promenade (Maschsee Promenade), a cycle way with paths running parallel to the Maschsee. It offers views of the lake and is easily accessible.
- Pattensen is known for bathing lakes, nature reserves, and artificial lakes. These include options for swimming, nature observation, and water sports.
- The lakes around Pattensen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2700 upvotes and over 370 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
West Shore of the Maschsee
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Hannover relaxes on its maritime paradise: well known beyond the city limits and certainly one of Hannover's most popular destinations is the approx. 0.8 square kilometer Maschsee.
The artificial lake, which was built between 1934 and 1936 in the Leinemasch, attracts water sports enthusiasts just as it does on its approx. 6 kilometers long riverside paths for strolling, cycling or jogging invites. In recent years, he has become more and more of a meeting place for inline skaters.
Source: Hanover.de
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Maschsee North Shore
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There are still some art objects from this time on the lake. The bronze sculpture of the Olympic torchbearer on a stone column and putto on the fish, both by Hermann Scheuertstuhl (1936). The human couple by Georg Kolbe (1936/37) and two lion sculptures at the so-called lion bastion by Arno Breker (1938) The inscription on the pillar of the torchbearer reads: “Willingness to build gave work-happy hands the blessing of work - joy, health and from now on the lake will also give strength. 1934–1936. "
The sculptures from the time of National Socialism led to discussions as to whether it was about art or National Socialist propaganda, as they reflect the image of people and society from that time with a special emphasis on strength and health. Since 2012 there have been two information boards on the north bank of the Maschsee opposite the Sprengel Museum that deal critically with the art of the Maschsee. [from Maschsee Wikipedia].
Today the lake is used as a welcome recreational area, a circuit around the lake is around 6.5 km long.
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Great Koldinger Lake
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Rudolf von Bennigsen Promenade (Maschsee Promenade)
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Großer Hemminger Teich
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Other adventures around Pattensen
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The Großer Hemminger Teich (Great Hemmingen Pond) is located on the southern outskirts of Hanover. This lake was created by gravel extraction. The Seniebach stream connects it to the Hemminger Dorfteich (Hemmingen Village Pond). The shoreline features alternating sections of vegetation and open water. The pond is primarily used for fishing. If you fancy a refreshing dip, head to the Hemmingen lido, located right next to the lake.
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The shore is lined with trees, sculptures, and cafés that invite you to linger. The view over the lake is particularly impressive, with the waters reflecting picturesquely in the Maschteich pond when the water is calm ✨.
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Cooling down possible in summer!
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The Maschsee is very beautiful. always great to drive
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Hanover's Riveria with cycle highway (=Veloroute) But beware of crossbreeding soup dogs and scooters.
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There is always something going on here and events such as the Maschsee Lake Festival often take place here.
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A large lake near the center of Hanover. Cycling and hiking trails lead around the lake.
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Wide riverside path. Always nice looks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes can I find near Pattensen?
The area around Pattensen offers a diverse range of lakes, including artificial recreational areas like the Maschsee North Shore, former gravel pits such as Großer Hemminger Teich and Ricklinger Kiesteiche, and natural bathing lakes like Badesee Heisede. You'll also find nature reserves, such as parts of the Great Koldinger Lake, which are important for birdlife.
Which lakes are best for swimming near Pattensen?
For swimming, you have several excellent options. Badesee Heisede is an official bathing lake, and the Maschsee in Hanover features a public beach area at the Aspria health club. The Steinhuder Meer is highly popular, especially its Weiße Düne Beach, which is ideal for families due to its white sand and shallow water. The Ricklinger Kiesteiche are also a popular choice for swimming and sunbathing, and the Altwarmbüchener Lake offers relaxed swimming on its northern shore.
Are there good options for cycling or walking around the lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer excellent paths for cycling and walking. The Maschsee has approximately 6 kilometers of riverside paths perfect for strolling, cycling, or jogging, including the Rudolf von Bennigsen Promenade. The Altwarmbüchener Lake is encircled by a 3.5 km path, ideal for hiking or cycling. The Great Koldinger Lake also provides opportunities to enjoy nature by bike or on foot.
Where can I go for water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing?
The Steinhuder Meer is the premier destination for water sports. Its Mardorf Surf Beach provides ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with equipment rental readily available.
Which lakes are suitable for nature observation and birdwatching?
The Great Koldinger Lake is part of a nature reserve and is one of the most important bird resting areas in the Hanover region, with an observation tower for a good overview. The eastern shore of Altwarmbüchener Lake, with its nature reserve and bird sanctuary, is also ideal for peaceful walks and birdwatching.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Pattensen?
Absolutely. Many lakes near Pattensen are family-friendly. The Weiße Düne Beach at Steinhuder Meer is particularly suitable for families due to its shallow water and sandy shores. The Maschsee is also a popular recreational area for families, and highlights like the West Shore of the Maschsee and Großer Hemminger Teich are categorized as family-friendly.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond swimming and water sports, the areas around the lakes offer extensive opportunities for hiking and mountain biking. You can find various routes, such as the 'Great Koldinger Lake – Koldingen Lakes loop' for hiking or the 'Koldinger Lakes – Giftener Lake loop' for mountain biking. For more detailed routes, explore the Hiking around Pattensen guide or the MTB Trails around Pattensen guide.
Are there easy walking routes around the lakes?
Yes, there are many easy walking routes. The path around Altwarmbüchener Lake is 3.5 km and suitable for a relaxed walk. The Maschsee's 6.5 km circuit is also popular for easy strolls. For more options, check out the Easy hikes around Pattensen guide, which includes routes like the 'Great Koldinger Lake – Koldingen Lakes loop'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Pattensen?
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse recreational opportunities, from active water sports and cycling to tranquil nature observation. The Maschsee is loved for its vibrant atmosphere and accessibility, while the Great Koldinger Lake is praised for its natural beauty and birdwatching opportunities. The community has shared over 370 photos and given more than 2700 upvotes to highlights in the area, reflecting high satisfaction.
Are there cafes or pubs near the lakes?
While specific establishments are not detailed in the provided information, popular recreational areas like the Maschsee in Hanover are known to have various cafes and pubs along its shores, especially given its central location and popularity as an excursion destination. Similarly, larger lakes like Steinhuder Meer, being a major tourist spot, would also offer dining options.
How accessible are the lakes from Pattensen?
Many lakes are conveniently located and easily reachable from Pattensen. Badesee Heisede and Giftener See are quickly accessible. The Maschsee is approximately 12 km north of Pattensen in Hanover, and the Steinhuder Meer is about 30 kilometers away, both well-connected by road. Public transport options are generally available to reach major lakes in the wider Hanover region.
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