Best lakes around Bernburg offer diverse natural and recreational experiences, many transformed from former mining sites. The region features a landscape shaped by historical lignite mining, now providing unique aquatic environments. These areas have evolved into popular spots for outdoor activities, with returning flora and fauna. Bernburg's lakes provide opportunities for both active exploration and quiet relaxation.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Highlight • Structure
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Bernburg.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Bernburg
Saale Cycle Path part 2 – culture and nature along the river
Saale Cycle Path — 9 stages from the source of the Saale to the Elbe
Out with Fräulein Draußen on the Saale Cycle Path
D-Route 11 – Baltic Sea - Upper Bavaria
Cycling in Saxony-Anhalt – Where nature and culture combine
German Unity Cycle Route
Wanderungen im Naturpark „Unteres Saaletal“ – Das Saaletal zwischen Plötzkau, Bernburg und Nienburg
Radtouren zwischen Plötzkau, Bernburg und Nienburg im Naturpark Unteres Saaletal
Europaradweg R1 in Sachsen-Anhalt
Cycling around Bernburg
In 1958, after more than 100 years, open-cast mining operations at the site were discontinued because the deposits were exhausted. The remaining pit was gradually filled with water.[2] By 1967, the Edderitzer Lake, over 40 hectares in size and up to 41 meters deep, had formed from inflowing groundwater. It initially served primarily as a water reservoir for agriculture, but has also developed into a popular bathing lake.[4] It differs from traditional quarry lakes in its rather unplanned formation. After wild bathing areas had developed along various shores, problems with the embankment became apparent after 1989, presumably caused by the rising water level following the declining water extraction between 1990 and 1992, so large sections of the shore were closed off. From 1998 to 2003, the slopes were secured and a beach restaurant was created in the western area, while the former beaches on the eastern side remained closed.[4] For the reopening on May 15, a "House and Bathing Regulations of the Edderitz Seaside Resort" was published in the official gazette.[5] The lake has good water quality.[6] On the west side of the lake, there is a lido with a 400-meter-long sandy beach, volleyball courts, and a campsite. The lake is used for various water sports such as fishing and diving. A paved circular path surrounds the lake, which is used for hiking, cycling, skating, and summer and winter biathlon. There is also a geological educational garden with over 120 rocks on display and remnants of the open-cast mining history (lorry, water wheel).[7] In 2005, a life-sized "art cow" painted with fins and scales was sunk by the local diving club in Lake Edderitz and anchored at a depth of 25 meters.[8] Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edderitzer_See
4
0
The village of Edderitz is said to have received its name from the Slavic word jezerisco, as it was first mentioned as Ezeri in 973. There are and have been several ponds in the village, and several pit ponds near the village, but Lake Edderitz is by far the largest body of still water in the former municipality.[1] In the 19th century, the importance of coal mining increased significantly, and the Leopold mine was established in 1853. In 1935, it was decided to relocate a large part of the village to the north so that coal could be mined there as well. The new village was gradually built north of the Pfaffendorf-Edderitz road starting in 1938. A total of around 1,200 residents were resettled by 1952. In 1953, the sugar factory, which was located in the northwest of the old village, was demolished so that coal could be mined there as well. All that remained of the old village was the cemetery; the rest was dredged over. [Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edderitzer_See
4
0
Lake Edderitz is located in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district, south of Köthen in the town of Southern Anhalt. It originated from the former Edderitz open-cast mine and is therefore also known as the "open-cast mine pit near Edderitz." Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edderitzer_See
5
0
The Saale oxbow at Aderstedt near Bernburg is a branch of the Saale River, cut off from the Saale and littered with trees. Directly adjacent to the oxbow is an allotment garden colony, and the Wipper River also flows through this area.
1
0
Benches on the path directly between the oxbow lake and the Saale invite you to linger.
1
0
great cycle path through floodplain forest
0
1
An incredibly beautiful place of silence.
0
0
Nice little circular hiking trail to the Saale from Aderstedter Strasse
1
0
Many lakes in the Bernburg region, such as Lake Edderitz and Silbersee Quarry, have a fascinating history, having formed from former lignite mining sites. These areas have transformed into unique natural and recreational spots, offering diverse landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Yes, several lakes are popular for swimming. Silbersee Quarry and Mine Tunnels is described as perfect for bathing. Lake Edderitz also quickly became a much-visited swimming lake after its formation.
Several lakes are great for families. Saale Oxbow Aderstedt features a well-developed cycle path. Lake Edderitz has an asphalt path perfect for an hour-long hike. Schacht Lake offers boat rentals and mini-golf, alongside a restaurant.
Absolutely. Schloss Warmsdorf Ruins and Pond is a notable historical site, featuring the ruins of a former moated castle. It provides a quiet place for rest and relaxation amidst its historical setting.
Yes, there are excellent options. Lake Edderitz boasts a popular asphalt path that circles the 43-hectare lake, ideal for an hour's walk or cycle. The Saale Oxbow Aderstedt also has a well-developed cycle path.
The lakes, especially those formed from former mining sites, are known for their returning flora and fauna. The asphalt path around Lake Edderitz offers insights into this natural regeneration. The region's diverse aquatic environments support various plant and animal life.
While some paths can be challenging, especially around Silbersee Quarry and Mine Tunnels with steep, sandy slopes, they might be difficult even for mountain bikes. For a broader range of cycling options, you can explore the gravel biking routes around Bernburg or general cycling routes in the area.
For peace and relaxation, the pond at Schloss Warmsdorf Ruins and Pond is highly recommended as an 'incredibly beautiful place of silence'. Schacht Lake also offers a relaxing atmosphere with a freely accessible headland for breaks.
Visitors consider Silbersee Quarry and Mine Tunnels an absolute highlight, perfect for bathing and taking a break. The unique experience of going through a tunnel to the other side is often compared to being in a 'western film by John Wayne'.
Yes, near Schacht Lake, there is an adjoining restaurant offering good food all day. You can also rent a boat or play mini-golf there.
Bernburg offers various road cycling routes, such as the 'View of Plötzkau Castle – Wettin Ferry loop' or the 'Bernburg Lock – View of Plötzkau Castle loop'. You can find more details and routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Bernburg guide.
Lake Edderitz has a unique history, formed in the 1960s after more than a century of lignite mining ceased. The open-cast mine filled with groundwater and rainwater, transforming it into the popular recreational lake it is today.


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