Best lakes around Meßstetten are situated on the Großer Heuberg plateau, offering a diverse natural landscape. This region in Baden-Württemberg features reservoirs and natural lakes, many of which are popular for recreation. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities amidst the characteristic Alb landscape. These bodies of water serve as focal points for local nature enjoyment and leisure.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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The Schlichemtalsperre (also known as Schömberger Stausee, mostly just called Stausee locally) east of Schömberg in Baden-Württemberg dams the Schlichem, a tributary of the Neckar coming from the Swabian Jura. The 90.6 ha Schömberger Stausee mit Palmbühl landscape protection area surrounds the Schlichemtalsperre. The approximately 1.35 km long and initially narrow reservoir, widening to about 175 m towards the end, with an area of 10.4 ha at 643.8 m above sea level (NHN), begins at the hamlet of Untere Säge and extends to the old town center of Schömberg. It has a catchment area of about 33.5 km², to which the Schlichem, over 11 km long at its inflow, contributes almost 90%. The watercourses Hölzlegraben from the forest to the right of the lake and Scheubühlgraben and Räßentälebach from the left, up to 1.2 km long, flow into it from the sides. A fish ladder leads from the Vorsee pre-reservoir near Untere Säge to the reservoir. There is also the only bridge over the lake that can be walked and driven on. The Schlichem Viaduct can only be used by the railway. The Schlichemtalsperre was built between 1940 and 1944. The Portlandzementwerk Rudolf Rohrbach KG (today Holcim (Süddeutschland) GmbH), based in neighboring Dotternhausen, which was the client for the dam, initially used it for cooling water supply and power generation. An outdoor swimming pool built in 1935 was flooded. After World War II, the facility was taken over by the state of Württemberg-Hohenzollern in 1948. The reservoir was renovated from 1975 to 1983. The barrier structure is an earth dam, and the hydropower plant within it has an output of 60 kW. There is a pre-reservoir, the Vorsee, which was built from 1975 to 1977. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schlichemtalsperre
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Very nice view of the lake. Great circular path. Numerous entrances to the bathing area.
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At Palmbühl on the Schömberg reservoir there is a free e-bike charging station with 3 sockets, marked but somewhat hidden.
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Kohlstatt-Brunnenbach Stausee 🌊 - Meßstetten-Oberdigisheim - Zollernalbkreis
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Beautiful bench in the middle of the forest.
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The miniature village is recommended and must be seen
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Premium hiking trail through the juniper heath and along the Albtrauf, past the Oberdigisheim reservoir, which is ideal for swimming in summer.
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Nice excursion restaurant at the Schömerg reservoir - Zollernalbkreis
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The Oberdigisheim Reservoir is highly recommended for families. It features a children's playground, two barbecue areas, changing rooms, and toilets. Steps and gravel banks make lake entry easy for all ages. The Schömberg Reservoir is also family-friendly, offering excellent swimming and a quiet, idyllic setting.
Yes, several lakes are suitable for swimming. The Oberdigisheim Reservoir is a popular bathing spot with excellent EU bathing water quality, regularly monitored by the health department. The Schömberg Reservoir is also excellent for swimming, especially in summer, with DLRG supervision on weekends and during holidays.
The lakes around Meßstetten are situated on the Großer Heuberg plateau, offering diverse natural landscapes. At the Heuberg Lakes, you can observe visible rock layers and profiles on the shores, remnants of their origin from former slate quarries. The Oberdigisheim Reservoir is surrounded by characteristic Alb landscape and forest edges, providing picturesque views.
Absolutely. A circular path around the Oberdigisheim Reservoir is perfect for leisurely strolls or active walks. The lake's location is incorporated into several hiking routes, including sections of the HochAlbPfad. For more hiking options, explore the Hiking around Meßstetten guide or the Easy hikes around Meßstetten guide.
The summer months are ideal for visiting, especially if you plan to swim or enjoy water activities. The Oberdigisheim Reservoir and Schömberg Reservoir are popular for bathing during this time. However, the circular paths and scenic views make the lakes enjoyable for walks and nature appreciation throughout spring, summer, and autumn.
Near the lakes, you can find the Miniature village, which is a small park featuring replicas of well-known houses, such as the Michelstadt town hall. It's an experience particularly enjoyed by children and grandparents, and even offers a miniature train ride.
Yes, angling is possible at the Oberdigisheim Reservoir. You will need to acquire a fishing license beforehand to enjoy this hobby at the lake.
For those traveling with motorhomes or caravans, the Oberdigisheim Reservoir offers 11 pitches below the reservoir. These are equipped with supply and disposal stations, as well as electricity connections, providing convenient overnight stays.
Beyond hiking, the region around Meßstetten offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including road cycling. Check out the Road Cycling Routes around Meßstetten guide for detailed information on routes like the one passing the Oberdigisheim Reservoir.
The Oberdigisheim Reservoir, also known as Stausee Kohlstatt-Brunnenbach, was originally constructed in 1983 as a flood retention basin. Its primary purpose was to manage the Kohlstattbrunnenbach stream, which previously caused flooding. Since its inauguration, it has transformed into a popular recreational area and angler's paradise.
Yes, above the Oberdigisheim Reservoir, there is a Kneipp facility. It includes a small barefoot path and offers a refreshing experience with natural, cold spring water, particularly enjoyable on warm days.
The Heuberg Lakes are unique because they are natural lakes formed from former slate quarries. This origin means you can still see the different rock layers and profiles clearly visible on their shores. The area is also notable for significant fossil discoveries, including a crocodile dinosaur, an ichthyosaur, and a world-unique coelacanth, found during slate mining around 1925.


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