Top 20 Lakes around Dormettingen
Best lakes around Dormettingen are found in the Zollernalbkreis district, an area characterized by its natural landscape of meadows and forests. The region is known for its reservoirs and former quarry lakes, offering diverse natural features. These bodies of water provide opportunities for recreation and observing geological formations.
Best lakes around Dormettingen
- The most popular lake is Schömberg Reservoir, a lake that is excellent for swimming or boating in summer. This reservoir is also known for its beautiful, idyllic,…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Schömberg Reservoir
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Miniature village
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Bernstein Monastery
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Schlichem Dam
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Heuberg Lakes
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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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The hiking trail leads out of the forest above the monastery and circles it, offering a beautiful view
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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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A former monastery. Now a farm/agriculture.
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The miniature village is recommended and must be seen
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Lower and Upper Heubergsee 🌊 - Zollernalbkreis
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I'll come here again in the summer to taste the cake. 😉
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Nice excursion restaurant at the Schömerg reservoir - Zollernalbkreis
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Dormettingen are best for swimming and water activities?
The Schömberg Reservoir is excellent for swimming and boating in summer. It features a designated swimming area and offers boat rental services for pedal boats, rowing boats, and stand-up paddleboarding. Note that swimming is at your own risk and can sometimes be restricted due to algae.
Are there family-friendly attractions near the lakes in Dormettingen?
Yes, near the Schömberg Reservoir, you'll find a Miniature village with traditional German buildings, carousels, swings, a zip line, go-karts, and a miniature railway. There's also a small petting zoo with various animals, making it a great spot for families.
What kind of walking and cycling paths are available around the lakes?
The Schömberg Reservoir features a beautiful circular path, approximately 2.7 km long, perfect for pleasant walks and cycling with scenic views. This path is also suitable for individuals with mobility aids, wheelchairs with assistance, and families with strollers.
What unique natural features can be observed at the lakes near Dormettingen?
The Lower Heuberg Lake and Heuberg Lakes, both natural monuments, were formed from former slate quarries. Here, you can clearly observe different rock layers and their profiles on the lake shores. Fossils, including those of a crocodile dinosaur, an ichthyosaur, and a unique coelacanth, were discovered during mining, with some exhibited in the Landesmuseum Stuttgart.
Are there historical landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, the Schömberg Reservoir itself has historical significance, originally built for electricity generation. An impressive railway viaduct, the Schlichem Viaduct, built in 1909, spans the lake and is considered a distinctive landmark. Additionally, the Bernstein Monastery, a former monastery beautifully embedded in the valley, is nearby.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Dormettingen?
The summer months are ideal for visiting, especially if you plan to enjoy swimming and boating at the Schömberg Reservoir. The pleasant weather also makes it perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring the family-friendly attractions.
How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car?
The Schömberg Reservoir is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. There is even a train stop directly at the lake, and discussions are ongoing to reactivate the old railway line for improved connectivity.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes besides swimming and walking?
Beyond swimming and walking, the area around Dormettingen offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, such as the 'Schömberg Reservoir – Schlichem Dam loop', and running trails like the 'Running loop from Schömberg'. For more options, explore the Road Cycling Routes around Dormettingen or Running Trails around Dormettingen.
Are there hiking trails near the lakes around Dormettingen?
Yes, there are several hiking trails. For example, you can enjoy the 'Two lakes near the Schlichem loop' or the 'Unternehmen Wüste Memorial – Schlichem Meadows loop' starting from Dormettingen. These routes offer a great way to explore the natural surroundings. Find more hiking options in the Hiking around Dormettingen guide.
What amenities are available around the Schömberger Stausee?
The area around the Schömberg Reservoir provides sunbathing lawns, picnic spots, mini-golf, and kiosks offering snacks, ice cream, and drinks. Camping facilities for caravans and tents are also available for those looking to extend their stay.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Dormettingen?
Visitors particularly appreciate the beautiful, idyllic, and quiet surroundings of the Schömberg Reservoir, often highlighting it as an excellent spot for a short break. The unique geological features and fossil discoveries at the Heuberg Lakes also draw significant interest from those exploring the region's natural history.
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