Best lakes around Schöngleina offers access to a region rich in natural beauty, characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and river courses. While Schöngleina itself does not feature large, named lakes, the surrounding area provides opportunities for water-based recreation. Visitors can find various ponds and lakes suitable for activities like swimming and relaxation. The landscape makes it appealing for nature lovers seeking outdoor experiences.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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The following legend has been told in the community of Hainspitz for several generations: The Mist Woman of Hainspitz From time to time, especially in autumn and during foggy weather, one sees a misty female figure floating from the Hainspitz Pond to the cornerstone at the former knight's estate. This is the ghost of an unfortunate knight's daughter, who is said to have once drowned in the pond and has not found peace to this day. Long ago, a hard-hearted knight, his wife, and his sensitive daughter lived in the old moated castle in Hainspitz. The daughter was a beautiful girl. The knight had promised her to a drinking companion. But he was already somewhat older and the girls did not like him at all. The knight kept a strict eye on his daughter. She was not allowed to leave the castle and could only walk within the walls. As she was once again strolling through the castle and looking longingly over the rampart, she suddenly heard the sound of a harp. The knight's daughter saw a handsome young man standing there, who greeted her warmly and continued to play his harp. From that day on, the girl and the harpist saw each other more often and grew increasingly fond of each other. But they couldn't get together. One day, after the old knight had left the castle, the girl managed to get the keys to the drawbridge. She quickly lowered the bridge, and a few moments later, the girl and the harpist were in each other's arms. From then on, the knight's daughter took every opportunity to secretly meet her lover. It wasn't long, however, before the old knight learned of their secret affair and surprised them both. From that day on, the girl was never allowed outside, so that she was even denied a view of the castle ramparts. Then she fell into a melancholy mood. But the old knight soon ordered the wedding with the groom he had chosen. On the eve of the wedding, the old knight threw a wild feast with the groom, whom his daughter disliked. Late that night, when all the knights were drunk, the girl fled the castle. Since she absolutely did not want to become the wife of her father's drinking companion and knew no way out, she threw herself into the pond in despair. There, the unfortunate girl is sometimes seen as a ghost to this day. after: The Witch's Taler - Legends and Selected Events from the Saale-Holzland District; Jenzig Publishing
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The peace and tranquility of this place is remarkable! A place where amphibians and water birds feel very comfortable!
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what a beautiful landscape
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Right on the lake is an ice cream parlor and the lakeside restaurant where you can eat well
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The artificial ponds have been ecologically improved in recent years
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There is a parking lot across the street. So a good starting and finishing point for a hike.
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Idyllic lake for a little rest.
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While Schöngleina itself is surrounded by natural beauty, popular spots in the wider region include Hainspitz Lake with Nebelfrau statue, known for its calming atmosphere and unique wooden sculptures. Another favorite is Falcon Pond, a secluded natural monument perfect for quiet reflection. The Bockteiche Ponds are also appreciated for their importance in wildlife protection and tranquil setting.
Yes, several lakes in the area are great for families. The Porstendorf Recreation Area offers a bathing lake, pedal boats, and a playground. Hainspitz Lake with Nebelfrau statue is also considered family-friendly, offering a relaxing stop with refreshments on weekends. The Falcon Pond and Bockteiche Ponds provide peaceful natural settings suitable for family outings.
For swimming, the Porstendorf Recreation Area is a good option, featuring a dedicated bathing lake. Further afield in Jena, Lake Schleichersee is known for its 'Strandschleicher' beach bar, offering a pleasant spot for relaxation and enjoyment by the water.
The region around Schöngleina is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and idyllic river courses. You'll find a variety of water bodies, from larger recreational lakes to smaller, secluded natural monuments and wetland biotopes. These areas are rich in wildlife, offering opportunities to observe birds, frogs, and even endangered species like newts and tree frogs, particularly around the Bockteiche Ponds and the Wetland Ponds in Jenaer Forst.
Absolutely! The area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore trails like the 'Jena–Schöngleina Airport – Airship Homestead loop' or the 'Rest Area at the Old Tree – Ice Age Boulder near Ruttersdorf loop'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Schöngleina guide.
Yes, the region is suitable for cycling. There are road cycling routes such as the 'Kunitz House Bridge – Old Saale Bridge, Jena-Burgau loop' and the 'St. Salvator Town Church – Stadtroda Castle loop'. You can find more detailed routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Schöngleina guide.
The best time depends on your preferred activities. Summer is ideal for swimming and water-based recreation. During winter, if temperatures drop sufficiently, some frozen lakes can even be used for ice skating. Spring and autumn offer beautiful scenery for hiking and enjoying the natural tranquility.
Yes, you can find refreshments at several locations. Hainspitz Lake with Nebelfrau statue offers ice cream and other refreshments on weekends. The Porstendorf Recreation Area is home to the Rabeninsel Beer Garden, which serves food and drinks. Lake Schleichersee in Jena also features the 'Strandschleicher' beach bar with cocktails, coffee, cakes, and snacks.
Yes, Hainspitz Lake with Nebelfrau statue is famously associated with the legend of the 'Mist Woman of Hainspitz'. This tale speaks of an unfortunate knight's daughter who drowned in the pond and is sometimes seen as a misty figure, particularly in autumn and foggy weather.
Visitors frequently praise the calming atmosphere and natural beauty of the area. Many appreciate the opportunities for relaxation, quiet reflection, and observing wildlife. The family-friendly amenities, such as swimming spots and playgrounds, are also highly valued, as are the various hiking and cycling routes that allow for active exploration of the diverse landscape.
Yes, for those seeking tranquility, Falcon Pond is a secluded natural monument within a forest, offering a quiet place to listen to birds and frogs. The Bockteiche Ponds also provide a tranquil oasis away from traffic, ideal for relaxation and picnics.


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