Best lakes around Gerlaser Forst are found within and near this state forest in Upper Franconia, Germany. The region is primarily known for its extensive hiking trails and natural beauty. Gerlaser Forst, integrated into the municipality of Bad Steben, features several water bodies that offer recreational opportunities and scenic views. These lakes near Gerlaser Forst include large reservoirs, bathing lakes, and historical raft ponds.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
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This old quarry impressed me a lot.
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The first section of the route is not necessarily suitable for inexperienced bikers but the rest of the route leads along easier paths that are manageable for everyone
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Very nice quiet place to stay. Not far from there is the Bischofsmühle
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Beautiful views around the dam.
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Created by human hands. Historic place.
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Idyllic pond with a historical origin story. It is advisable to take a break here. A rest area and on the other side a bench on the bank invite you to sit down.
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one of the beautiful Steigla in the Franconian Forest
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The area around Gerlaser Forst features a diverse range of water bodies, including large drinking water reservoirs like the Ködel Reservoir, popular bathing lakes such as Frankenwald Lake, and historical raft ponds like the Raft Pond Bischofsmühle. There are also smaller, more secluded natural ponds like the Black Pond.
Yes, Frankenwald Lake (also known as Lichtenberger Badesee) is a popular bathing lake offering excellent swimming possibilities and a spacious sunbathing lawn. It's a great spot for recreational activities.
Many lakes are family-friendly. Frankenwald Lake, for instance, has a playground, relax benches, and areas for football, basketball, and volleyball. The circular paths around reservoirs like the Ködel Reservoir are also suitable for family walks.
Yes, the Ködel Reservoir features well-maintained, tarred circular routes that are suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, and inline skating, offering impressive tranquility and scenic views.
You'll find a variety of hiking trails, from easy circular paths around bathing lakes to more challenging routes around reservoirs. For example, there's an 11 km circuit around the Ködel Reservoir Water Intake Tower, often called the 'Fjord of the Franconian Forest', popular with hikers and cyclists. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Gerlaser Forst guide.
Absolutely. The tarred circular route around the Ködel Reservoir is popular with cyclists. Additionally, the region offers various road cycling routes, such as the 'Path Along the Wilde Rodach – Steinbühl Quarry Lake loop', which you can find in the Road Cycling Routes around Gerlaser Forst guide.
The region has historical raft ponds, which were crucial for timber rafting. The Raft Pond Bischofsmühle is a prime example, reconstructed to preserve its historical importance in the centuries-old rafting industry of the Franconian Forest. The Black Pond is also a former rafting pond.
The lakes are often nestled within wooded landscapes, offering serene natural beauty. The Ködel Reservoir is known for its impressive tranquility, while the Black Pond is part of a nature reserve where black storks breed, highlighting the area's rich flora and fauna.
The lakes offer activities year-round. Summer is ideal for swimming at Frankenwald Lake and enjoying outdoor events. In winter, if the ice is thick enough, Frankenwaldsee becomes a popular spot for ice skating, and the circular paths around the reservoirs are enjoyable in all weather conditions.
Yes, there are several running trails that incorporate the scenic lake areas. For example, you can find the 'Badeteich loop from Franconian Forest' which is a moderate 9.3 km route. More options are available in the Running Trails around Gerlaser Forst guide.
The Ködel Reservoir is Bavaria's largest drinking water reservoir, often referred to as the 'Fjord of the Franconian Forest'. It's appreciated for its impressive tranquility, well-maintained paths, and the striking Water Intake Tower, which is a significant man-made monument.
Yes, Frankenwald Lake features a beer garden, providing a pleasant spot to relax and enjoy refreshments. Other lakes and trails often have nearby amenities or are close to towns like Bad Steben and Naila where you can find cafes and pubs.


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