Best lakes around Schotten are situated in the Vogelsberg region of Germany, characterized by its volcanic origins and forested landscapes. The area features prominent bodies of water like the Nidda Reservoir, which serves as a significant local recreation area. These lakes are integrated into a landscape of meadows and forests, offering diverse natural features for visitors. The region provides various attractions around Niddastausee and other water bodies.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
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Beautiful fish pond, great landscape, easy H circular route
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Once a reservoir for floating wood, then a trout farm and now a nature reserve. An idyllic spot on earth.
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The leisure lake is a popular meeting place for athletes, weekend trippers, anglers, walkers and those seeking relaxation. Boat rental, surfing and sailing school, a large children's playground and sunny meadows provide variety. The 5 kilometer long asphalted circular path around the reservoir is ideal for inline skaters, cyclists and skaters as well as for a relaxing walk. Benches and sensory loungers invite you to rest along the way.
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The Nidda rises at Hoherodskopf, flows through Schotten in a small stream and is stopped by the Niddatalsperre directly at the southern end of the town. The result is the 65 hectare Niddastausee and a wonderful local recreation area. Surrounded by meadows and forests, the reservoir is one of the largest lakes in Hesse. The recreational lake is a popular meeting place for athletes, weekend trippers, anglers, walkers and those looking for relaxation. Boat rentals, surfing and sailing schools, a large children's playground and sunny meadows provide variety. https://www.tourist-schotten.de/schotten/niddastausee.html
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The Nidda Reservoir (Niddatalsperre) covers an area of approximately 65 hectares and is located between Schotten and Rainrod in the Nidda Valley. The reservoir is surrounded by meadows and forests and is a wonderful local recreation area. The swimming and leisure lake is a popular meeting place for athletes, weekenders, walkers, and those seeking relaxation, offering a wide range of leisure activities. Sailors and surfers enjoy their hobby here just as much as anglers and campers. The beautifully situated, year-round campsite has won several awards. A paved circular hiking trail around the lake is five kilometers long and ideal for inline skaters, cyclists, and skaters, as well as for a relaxing stroll. Benches and sensory loungers invite you to rest along the way. https://www.freizeit-mittelhessen.de/content/niddastausee.html
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The Nidda rises at Hoherodskopf, flows through Schotten in a small stream, and is held back by the Niddatalsperre (Nidda Dam) just south of the town. The result is the 65-hectare Nidda Reservoir, a wonderful local recreation area. Surrounded by meadows and forests, the reservoir is one of the largest lakes in Hesse. The recreational lake is a popular meeting place for athletes, weekenders, anglers, walkers, and those seeking relaxation. Boat rentals, a surfing and sailing school, a large children's playground, and sunbathing lawns provide a variety of activities. https://www.tourist-schotten.de/schotten/niddastausee.html
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Approx. 15-20 minutes' walk from the free Heide parking lot. Beautifully situated and a great experience in every season. Simply along the pond or over to the hut.
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The Niddastausee was built between 1968 and 1970 and is fed by the Nidda, which rises at the Heroldskopf and flows through Schotten, which has many pretty half-timbered houses. The Niddastausee is 65 hectares in size and is therefore one of the largest lakes in Hesse. The dam is used with the hydroelectric power station to generate electricity and as a local recreation area. Some shore areas are under nature protection and serve as a biotope for animals and plants.
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The Nidda Reservoir is a popular spot for a wide range of activities. You can enjoy water sports like sailing and surfing, with boat rentals and a school available. For land-based activities, there's a paved, five-kilometer circular trail perfect for inline skating, cycling, and walking. The area also features a large children's playground and sunbathing lawns, making it ideal for families. Anglers also frequent the reservoir.
Yes, the lakes around Schotten offer various hiking and walking opportunities. The Nidda Reservoir features a paved circular trail that is easy to walk. For more extensive options, you can explore routes like the 'Nidda Reservoir – Nidda Reservoir (Niddastausee) loop from Schotten' which is a moderate MTB trail, or the 'Nidda Reservoir – View of Niddastausee loop' for jogging. For easy hikes, consider the 'Nidda Reservoir (Niddastausee) – View of the Nidda Reservoir loop' or the 'Nidda Reservoir – Heller Cottage loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Easy hikes around Schotten guide.
Absolutely. The Nidda Reservoir is particularly family-friendly, offering a large children's playground, expansive sunbathing lawns, and an easy-to-navigate paved circular path suitable for strollers and bikes. The Upper Trout Pond (Upper Nidda Valley) and Rothenbach Pond are also noted as family-friendly, providing idyllic and quiet environments for walks and picnics.
The lakes around Schotten are enjoyable year-round, but the summer months are particularly popular for water sports and outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery for hiking and walking, with changing foliage. Even in winter, the area can be picturesque for walks, though specific activities might be limited by weather conditions.
While specific regulations for dogs at all lakes are not detailed, the Nidda Reservoir area is generally popular for walks, and many trails in the region are dog-friendly. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected natural areas or where wildlife is present, and to check for any specific local signage regarding dog access.
Yes, the Nidda Reservoir is noted for its accessibility. The five-kilometer circular path around the lake is paved, making it suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, cyclists, and inline skaters. There are also benches and sensory loungers along the path for resting.
The lakes around Schotten are nestled in the Vogelsberg region, characterized by its volcanic origins, picturesque meadows, and forests. The Nidda Reservoir is surrounded by these landscapes, with some protected shore areas serving as biotopes for local flora and fauna. The Rothenbach Pond is part of a diverse pond landscape with rich natural vegetation, including reed beds, sedge communities, and various tree stands, providing a habitat for numerous bird species, dragonflies, and amphibians.
Yes, particularly at the Nidda Reservoir. There is a bistro located at the campsite directly adjacent to the lake, offering refreshments and meals. Visitors often recommend trying local specialties like 'Leberkäs with fried eggs and homemade potato salad' there.
The Nidda Reservoir is easily accessible, and parking is available. For instance, the Upper Trout Pond is about a 15-20 minute walk from the free Heide parking lot. While specific public transport details for all lakes are not provided, the region is generally well-connected for visitors arriving by car.
Beyond the popular Nidda Reservoir, the Upper Trout Pond (Upper Nidda Valley) offers an idyllic and quiet environment, appreciated for its peaceful setting. Similarly, Rothenbach Pond is known for its quiet atmosphere and diverse natural vegetation, making it a great spot for nature observation away from larger crowds.
Beyond water sports and walking, the area around Schotten's lakes offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. The paved circular path at the Nidda Reservoir is suitable for cyclists. For more challenging rides, you can explore MTB trails like the 'Nidda Reservoir – Nidda Reservoir (Niddastausee) loop from Schotten' or the 'Hirschtrail – Best Sections – Spitzen-Stein rock formation loop'. Find more routes in the MTB Trails around Schotten guide.


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