Lakes around Handorf offer diverse natural landscapes for outdoor activities. While Handorf itself is a district of Münster, the surrounding region provides access to various lakes. These bodies of water serve as local recreation areas, featuring opportunities for walking, swimming, and nature observation. The area is characterized by its accessible natural spaces, making it suitable for different types of visitors.
Last updated: May 15, 2026
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The Kreidesee in Lüneburg (also called Kreidebergsee) is a former gypsum and limestone quarry that has developed into a popular local recreation area north of the city center. It is known for its depth of up to 30 meters, the impressive white limestone cliffs, and valuable salt flora, but swimming is prohibited for safety reasons. The Kreidesee is very ideal for walks and geology enthusiasts. The lake originated from a former gypsum and limestone quarry. It is located north of Lüneburg's city center, in the Kreideberg district. It is up to 30 meters deep. It impresses with its unique feature, up to 30-meter-high white limestone steep walls, and hosts a rare salt flora, which is due to its proximity to the Lüneburg salt dome. You can enjoy wonderful walks and hikes here. There are paths around the lake that also lead through the allotment garden district and offer panoramic views of Lüneburg. Benches are available. A visit is recommended.
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The Kreidebergsee was created by the extraction of chalk and gypsum, which, alongside salt mining, has been of enormous importance in Lüneburg for centuries. From 1838 onwards, the chalk quarry was expanded to include a high-performance lime kiln as part of its industrial use. Thanks to its abundant raw materials, which were largely used for house construction and in agriculture at the time, the lime kiln was very successful. Around the turn of the century, jobs could be created for 300 to 400 people. Thus, the lime kiln was considered the largest employer of its time. In 1963, chalk and gypsum extraction in the area was discontinued because the operation had no longer been economically viable for several years. In addition, more and more residential areas were being built near the area, which is why the citizens felt disturbed by the lime kiln. Subsequently, the water pumps were shut down and the pit slowly filled up to groundwater level. The resulting lake was then used as a landfill for waste and construction debris until 1983, until it was developed into a local recreation area. Source: https://www.luenepedia.de/wiki/Kreidebergsee
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There is also a youth guest house for up to 26 people where you can easily stay overnight.
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It looked inviting. A refreshment would have been good - next time!
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Beautiful bike path along the fishing lake. Invite you to a picnic on the way back :)
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A pretty pond, with a small island in the middle. In front of the pond (right next to the bike path) there is a table with benches, a nice place to rest during a bike ride or hike. My mother and I stopped here on October 29th, 2022 while cycling from Bardowick to Winsen (Luhe) and back.
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Visitors frequently enjoy Barumer Lake, which is excellent for swimming and offers opportunities for canoeing or SUP. Another favorite is Island Lake, known for its good water quality and white sandy beach. For those interested in unique landscapes, Kreideberg Lake, a former gypsum and limestone quarry with impressive white cliffs, is a popular choice for walks and panoramic views.
Yes, several lakes around Handorf are family-friendly. Barumer Lake and Island Lake both offer amenities and environments suitable for families, including swimming areas and beaches. The Rest area at the Radbruch fish pond is also a pleasant spot for a family break.
For swimming, Barumer Lake is a great option, especially in summer. Island Lake also boasts good water quality and a white sandy beach, making it ideal for a refreshing dip. Please note that swimming is prohibited at Kreideberg Lake for safety reasons.
Dog policies vary by lake. At Barumer Lake, dogs are not allowed in the main bathing area, but they can cool down about 200 meters downriver near the car parking spaces. Dogs are generally not permitted in the main swimming areas of lakes like Island Lake.
Yes, Kreideberg Lake is a former gypsum and limestone quarry known for its impressive white limestone cliffs, some reaching up to 30 meters high. It's an excellent spot for those interested in geology and offers valuable salt flora. The Kiebitzbrack Nature Reserve also features unique brack formations and is under nature protection, offering a glimpse into diverse aquatic environments.
The region around Handorf offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and even gravel biking. Specific lakes like Barumer Lake are also great for canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding.
Yes, Barumer Lake is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with mobility needs to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Facilities vary by lake. Island Lake provides barbecue areas, mobile toilets, and a kiosk for drinks and snacks on sunny days. Both Barumer Lake and Island Lake feature beaches and are equipped for visitors.
Absolutely. Kreideberg Lake offers paths that lead to upper vantage points, providing panoramic views of Lüneburg. The Kiebitzbrack Nature Reserve also provides magnificent views, particularly of the Elbe.
Yes, the Kiebitzbrack Nature Reserve is located on the southeastern edge of Hamburg, featuring five bracks (lakes) and forming the beginning of the Gose-Elbe River. It's a protected area known for its natural beauty and diverse ecosystems.
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse natural landscapes and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The komoot community has shared over 61 photos and given more than 200 upvotes, highlighting the beauty and recreational value of these lakes, from swimming and water sports to peaceful walks and geological exploration.


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