Lakes around Fürstenstein are primarily found within the broader Bavarian Forest region, as the municipality itself does not feature prominent lakes. Fürstenstein is situated in the southern Bavarian Forest, offering access to various natural and historical water bodies. These lakes, often formed by glacial activity or as historical reservoirs, provide diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The area is characterized by its forested hills and accessible natural beauty.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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The Dreiburgensee, formerly known as the Rothauer See, lies between the climatic health resort of Thurmansbang and Tittling in the Bavarian Forest. It was named after the surrounding Ilz Valley and Dreiburgenland, including Saldenburg Castle, Englburg Castle, and Fürstenstein Castle. The lake was first documented in 1703. It had been created shortly before as a fish farm by Lieutenant Field Marshal Max Josef Graf von Tauffkirchen zu Guttenburg. The dammed lake, with a length of 700 m and a maximum width of 200 m, has a surface area of 8 hectares and a maximum depth of 7 m. The border between the districts of Passau and Freyung-Grafenau runs across the lake. A roughly 2 km circular path along the lake's shore invites you to take leisurely strolls. In summer, the Dreiburgensee is a popular bathing spot with restaurants, hotels, and sunbathing lawns. In winter, you can ice skate and play curling on the frozen lake. Beavers have also been living at the lake for several years. By building a large dam at the lake's inlet, they have created a biotope of approximately 6 hectares, where rare bird species such as the black stork and the great egret can be seen. The Bavarian Forest Museum Village, one of the largest open-air museums in Europe, is located directly on the lake. https://www.bayerischer-wald.de/attraktion/dreiburgensee-1edb7f4942
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Lake Saldenburger See is a true gem in the Bavarian Forest – a small but beautiful adventure lake that charmingly combines tranquility, play, and the enjoyment of nature. With approximately 5,000 m² of water, a maximum depth of 2.5 to 3 meters, and a lovingly landscaped setting, it is especially popular with families and hikers. What makes the lake special are its features: A zip line to the island inspires a sense of adventure. A beached pirate ship invites children to let off steam. A jetty with a platform, sundeck, and lawns offer space for relaxation. A beach volleyball court, changing rooms, and restrooms round out the offerings. Access is free, and the water quality is regularly checked – ideal for hot summer days or spontaneous excursions. Anglers also get their money's worth: With day tickets (May–September), you can fish for brown trout, tench, or char from the shore – although there are closed seasons and catch limits. In winter, weather permitting, the lake transforms into a curling rink, complete with rentals. Nestled in the rolling hills of the Dreiburgenland region, with a view of Saldenburg Castle, the lake is idyllically situated between meadows and forests. The Weiherstraße road leads directly to the parking lot – and from there, it's just a few steps to the water. https://www.ostbayern-tourismus.de/attraktionen/badesee-12848e9daf
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A wonderful idyll at the former sawmill! The old shed and the mill building are now lovingly furnished holiday apartments where you can relax. There are bathing areas at the pond and also at the stream. The small chapel is also worth a visit.
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Cycling is prohibited on the path around the lake. It's best to leave your bike behind, hike around the lake and then continue on your bike.
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Grown in the region. If you want to drive trails there. Should a fully be important. And plan for physical exertion.
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Unique idyll by the creek
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Visitors particularly enjoy Buchwies Pond for its natural and relaxing environment, and Dreiburgensee, which is known for its swimming opportunities and sandy beach. Another favorite is Saldenburg Mill Pond, offering bathing facilities, a zip line, and a large lawn for sunbathing.
Yes, several lakes are ideal for families. Saldenburg Mill Pond is highly recommended, featuring a zip line, a play ship, and a large lawn. Dreiburgensee and Buchwies Pond are also categorized as family-friendly, offering swimming and relaxing natural settings.
The lakes in the broader Bavarian Forest region offer diverse natural beauty. You can find glacial lakes like Great Arber Lake, known for its unique 'floating islands' of peat bogs, and the tranquil, primeval forest setting of Lake Rachel. Many lakes are surrounded by forested hills, offering scenic viewpoints and a peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, the region has historical significance. The Kollnbergmühle Watermill and Pond is a notable historical site, featuring the oldest mill pond in the Bavarian Forest and a functional water wheel. The Martinsklause Reservoir, within the Bavarian Forest National Park, is also a preserved cultural monument, originally created in 1835 for timber drifting.
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails around lakes like Dreiburgensee or the circular path at Great Arber Lake. Pedal boat rentals are available at Great Arber Lake. For more extensive options, explore the numerous hiking trails, road cycling routes, and mountain biking trails throughout the Fürstenstein region.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. A popular circular trail goes around Great Arber Lake, taking approximately one hour. Near Lake Rachel, you can follow the 'Buntspecht' circular route or hike to the Großer Rachel summit. The Kollnbergmühle Watermill and Pond is also directly accessible via hiking trails No. 50 and 53, and a short walk around the pond is possible. For more options, check out the hiking guide for Fürstenstein.
While specific seasonal recommendations vary by lake, the summer months are generally ideal for swimming and water-based activities at lakes like Dreiburgensee and Saldenburg Mill Pond. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty without the summer crowds.
Yes, to protect their natural environment, swimming and bathing are prohibited at Great Arber Lake. Lake Rachel, known for its untouched wilderness, also focuses on hiking and enjoying its serene natural state rather than swimming.
Facilities vary by lake. Saldenburg Mill Pond is well-equipped with sanitary facilities, changing rooms, a large lawn for sunbathing, and a kiosk. Great Arber Lake offers pedal boat rentals and parking. Lake Rachel has a protection hut (Rachelsee-Schutzhütte) and a chapel (Rachelkapelle).
Accessibility varies. Great Arber Lake has parking available and is accessible via bus connections from Bayerisch Eisenstein to the Arber mountain railway valley station. Lake Rachel can be reached by starting a hike from the Racheldiensthütte bus stop. For other lakes, driving and parking near trailheads or access points is generally the most common way to reach them.
Visitors consistently praise the pure nature and relaxing atmosphere, especially at Buchwies Pond. The swimming opportunities and sandy beach at Dreiburgensee are also highly valued. Many appreciate the well-maintained facilities and family-friendly activities, such as those found at Saldenburg Mill Pond.
Lake Rachel is considered the quietest and smallest of the glacial lakes in the Bavarian Forest, offering a serene and untouched wilderness experience perfect for those seeking seclusion. Buchwies Pond is also noted for its quiet atmosphere and natural relaxation.


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