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Saale-Orla-Kreis

Wernburg

Top 20 Lakes around Wernburg

Lakes around Wernburg are primarily characterized by the "Thuringian Sea," a landscape formed by large reservoirs along the Saale River in the Saale-Orla-Kreis district of Thuringia, Germany. These artificial lakes, including the Bleiloch and Hohenwarte Reservoirs, were created for energy generation and flood protection. They are known for their fjord-like appearance and serve as significant natural attractions. The region offers a diverse environment for outdoor activities.

Best lakes around Wernburg

  • The most popular lakes highlight is 1000 Ponds Circular Trail

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Hohenwarte Dam

Highlight • Monument

This 75 meter high and 412 meter long dam was built between 1936 and 1942. This required 250 people to give up their homes - an entire village was flooded …

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1000 Ponds Circular Trail

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A beautiful circular route in a charming lake landscape.

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View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir

Highlight • Viewpoint

A magnificent vantage point that even has the right orientation for a perfect sunset. The Saale loop below is impressive. The small paths all around make hiking a lot of fun.

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Here and also, if you walk along the shore for a while, you have the opportunity to cool off in the lake.

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"The Land of 1000 Ponds". The pond landscape with a size of approx. 75 km2 is located on a plateau of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. The center of the ponds …

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Christian
October 2, 2025, Großer Ruß Teich (Plothener Teiche)

A beautiful piece of earth

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Devil's Pulpit

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The Plothen Ponds are a 75 sq km area with around 600 ponds (there were 2000 ponds previously) that were created by monks in the 11th/12th century for fish farming. They are connected by a system of ditches and are fed solely by rainfall. At this altitude, such a historically grown pond landscape is unique.

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In the land of 1000 ponds there are also 1000 things to discover... What a beautiful landscape.

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A beautiful circular route in a charming lake landscape.

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A very beautiful hiking area, even for people who are perhaps not so fit, as there are good paths and it is flat. Very idyllic. Seating opportunities mainly by the pond with the stilt house, otherwise rather rare.

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The circular route is very beautiful and well signposted. But you can also spontaneously take a different route; there are many good paths here and it is almost impossible to get lost. There are a few places to sit and rest at the first large pond with the stilt house, but there are a few at the other ponds.

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The "Preswitzer Spitze" protrudes wonderfully into the reservoir like a small peninsula and so you have a great view on both sides.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What types of lakes can I explore around Wernburg?

The region around Wernburg is primarily known for the "Thuringian Sea," which consists of large, fjord-like reservoirs like the Bleiloch Reservoir and the Hohenwarte Reservoir. Additionally, you can discover the unique natural pond landscape of the Plothen Ponds, often called the "Land of 1000 Ponds."

What are some popular natural attractions or viewpoints near the lakes?

Visitors particularly enjoy the View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir, which offers panoramic views of the Saale loop and is a great spot for sunsets. The Bleiloch Reservoir itself is part of a European bird sanctuary, offering rich natural beauty.

Are there historical sites or significant structures related to the lakes?

Yes, the Hohenwarte Dam is a significant man-made monument, standing 75 meters high and 412 meters long, built between 1936 and 1942. The Bleiloch Dam, built between 1926 and 1932, is also a historic landmark of civil engineering. The Plothen Ponds also have a rich history, having been created by monks for fish farming in the 11th and 12th centuries.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?

The lakes offer a wide range of activities. At the Bleiloch Reservoir and Hohenwarte Reservoir, you can enjoy sailing, surfing, boating, paddling, stand-up paddling, fishing, and even waterskiing or paragliding. The surrounding areas are also excellent for hiking, cycling, and running. For more detailed routes, you can explore options in the Hiking around Wernburg, Cycling around Wernburg, and Running Trails around Wernburg guides.

Are there family-friendly activities or trails around the lakes?

Absolutely. The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail is a beautiful, well-signposted route with various length options, perfect for families. The Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds) area also features a recreation area, campsite, and youth hostel, making it ideal for family outings.

What are the best hiking trails around the lakes?

The 1000 Ponds Circular Trail is highly recommended for its charming lake landscape and clear signage. The Hohenwarte Reservoir Trail is a long-distance hiking route, about 75 km long, offering extensive exploration of the Thuringian Slate Mountains. You can find more hiking routes in the Hiking around Wernburg guide.

Is there wheelchair accessibility at any of the lake viewpoints?

Yes, the View over the Hohenwarte Reservoir is noted for its wheelchair accessibility, allowing everyone to enjoy the magnificent panoramic views of the Saale loop.

What is the best time to visit the lakes around Wernburg?

The lakes are beautiful year-round, but late spring to early autumn (May to October) generally offers the best weather for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports. The autumn foliage around the fjord-like reservoirs is particularly stunning.

Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?

Yes, along the shores of the Hohenwarte Reservoir, you'll find various inns serving traditional Thuringian cuisine, as well as campsites and guesthouses. The Großer Ruß Pond (Plothen Ponds) also has a recreation area with a campsite and youth hostel.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Wernburg?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning fjord-like landscapes of the Bleiloch and Hohenwarte Reservoirs, often comparing them to Scandinavian scenery. The diverse range of recreational activities, from water sports to hiking, and the peaceful natural environment are also highly appreciated. The unique historical context of the Plothen Ponds and the impressive dam structures also draw significant interest.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes and on trails?

Many trails and natural areas around the lakes are dog-friendly, but it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature protection areas and near wildlife. Specific regulations may apply to certain bathing spots or protected zones, so look for local signage.

Are there opportunities for wild swimming in the lakes?

While the reservoirs offer numerous bathing spots, designated swimming areas are generally safer and recommended. The Hohenwarte Reservoir, for instance, has several well-known bathing spots along its shores. Always check local regulations and water quality information before swimming in undesignated areas.

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