Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
Germany
Baden-Württemberg
Alb-Donau-Kreis

Schelklingen

Top 20 Lakes around Schelklingen

Best lakes around Schelklingen are found in a region of Baden-Württemberg, Germany, known for its natural beauty and diverse water features. The area is characterized by unique karst springs, tranquil natural lakes, and former monastery complexes. These natural landscapes offer opportunities for exploration, relaxation, and observing local wildlife.

Best lakes around Schelklingen

  • The most popular lakes is Blautopf, a lake renowned for its intensely blue water. This karst spring is a natural spectacle, offering a beneficial and invigorating experience…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Blautopf

Highlight • Lake

A much sung about place, which rightly belongs to one of the most beautiful natural spectacles of the Alb. Summer, sun and the deep blue of the spring always have a beneficial and invigorating effect.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

Zaininger Pond

Highlight • Lake

Also very nice to look at in winter!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

Blaubeuren Hammer Forge

Highlight • Monument

On the terrace you sit right next to the Blautopf - when it's not full it's nice, but it can get very crowded.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Achtopf Spring

Highlight • Natural Monument

Impressive spring pot! Great mood!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Urspring Spring (Urspringquelle)

Highlight • Natural Monument

As beautiful as the blue pot

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Schelklingen.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Schelklingen

Hiking on the Swabian Alb with all your senses

E-bike pleasure rides in the Swabian Alb

From mountain sprints to winding roads – the Tour de Alb road cycling adventure

Feel the power of the water - cycling on the Swabian Alb

Experience nature by bike in the Swabian Jura

Dive deep into Baden-Württemberg's nature on a gravel bike in Germany

9 beautiful day rides in the Swabian Jura in Germany

Caves and Ice Age Art world heritage in the Swabian Jura – Ice Valleys Cycle Route

Weltkultur erfahren – Mit dem Rad unterwegs im Alb-Donau-Kreis

Cycling around Schelklingen

Other adventures around Schelklingen

Hiking on the Swabian Alb with all your senses

Hiking Collection by

Schwäbische Alb

Tips from the Community

Karsten
August 18, 2024, Urspring Spring (Urspringquelle)

A true insider tip are the little brothers of the famous Blautopf here in the valley on the edge of Schelklingen. Both the Achtopf and the Urspringtopf impress with their blue color, just like their "big" relative in nearby Blaubeuren. The water's name, "Topf," reflects its bowl-like shape. Karst springs are usually the end of a cave system, where a cave stream reaches the earth's surface. Whether one enjoys the bright blue of these two springs depends on external influences, as the striking blue color of the water is caused by the scattering of light from the lime-saturated spring water.

Translated by Google

2

0

Barbara
May 31, 2024, Achtopf Spring

Beautifully situated next to an old mill. A place with a very special flair.

Translated by Google

2

0

beautiful houses and reflection of the original spring pot

Translated by Google

1

0

Significantly less crowded than the Blautopf

Translated by Google

1

0

oro96
January 16, 2023, Achtopf Spring

One of two "pots" at Urspring. Oh and Urspring flow together here, the Urspring pot is at the monastery. Less crowded than the famous Blautopf. Nice to pause.

Translated by Google

2

0

Very crowded, which is not surprising given the location right on the Blautopf

Translated by Google

4

0

Further information can be found at the following link: https://blautopf.de/rund-um-den-blautopf/cafe-am-blautopf

Translated by Google

4

0

Here directly at the Blautopf is the small café, on hot days you can also eat ice cream there

Translated by Google

4

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What unique natural features can I explore around Schelklingen's lakes?

The region is renowned for its unique karst springs, such as the intensely blue Blautopf near Blaubeuren and the Urspring Spring (Urspringquelle) directly in Schelklingen. These springs are known for their striking blue water, caused by light scattering on lime particles. You can also find tranquil natural lakes and gravel pit lakes offering diverse water features.

Are there family-friendly lakes or attractions near Schelklingen?

Yes, several spots are great for families. The Blautopf is ideal for a pleasant stroll or bike ride. The Lone Lake Adventure Playground and Lonetopf area, though a source, features a beautifully landscaped water experience with adventure stations and a Stone Age Human Sculpture, making it very engaging for children. Zaininger Pond is also noted as family-friendly with seating around the edge.

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

The area around Schelklingen's lakes is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on quality paths around lakes like Schmiechener See, or explore numerous routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and touring. For example, you can find routes like the 'Three valleys loop' for gravel biking or the 'Ice Age Valleys Cycle Path' for touring. Discover more options on the Gravel biking around Schelklingen, Cycling around Schelklingen, and Road Cycling Routes around Schelklingen guide pages.

Where can I find good viewpoints or observation platforms around the lakes?

The Observation Platform Schmiechener See offers an excellent overview of the very nice and quiet Schmiechener See, which is a nature and bird sanctuary. It's an ideal spot for observing diverse fauna and provides information boards to enhance your experience. The Achtopf Spring also provides a nice view of its clear waters.

Are there any historical or cultural sites associated with the lakes?

Yes, the Urspring Spring (Urspringquelle) is located at the former Benedictine monastery Urspring, which now houses a well-known boarding school. You can still see the former monastery complex, adding a historical dimension to your visit. Zaininger Pond is also listed as a historical site.

What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Schelklingen?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the intensely blue waters of the karst springs like Blautopf and Urspring Spring (Urspringquelle). The tranquility of places like Schmiechener See and the clear waters of Achtopf Spring are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the invigorating experience of a refreshing break, a pleasant stroll, or a bike ride in these scenic surroundings.

Can I swim in any of the lakes near Schelklingen?

While the intensely blue karst springs like Blautopf are primarily for viewing and appreciation, the Erbacher Baggersee, located about 13.3 km from Schelklingen, is a gravel pit lake that offers opportunities for cooling off on hot days. For specific swimming regulations at other lakes, it's always best to check local signage.

Are there dog-friendly walking trails around the lakes?

Many natural areas around Schelklingen's lakes are suitable for walks with dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and local regulations are followed. For instance, the circular trail around the Blautopf is highly recommended for a pleasant stroll. Always be mindful of nature and bird sanctuaries, such as Schmiechener See, where certain paths might be restricted to protect wildlife.

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

The lakes and springs around Schelklingen offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the vibrant blue waters and outdoor activities like cycling and walking. The Zaininger Pond is noted to be 'very nice to look at in winter' as well, suggesting that the region holds charm even in colder months.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known lakes worth visiting?

Beyond the famous Blautopf, the Urspringtopf (Urspring Spring) in Schelklingen offers a similar captivating blue hue and is part of an idyllic former monastery complex. Schmiechener See is described as a very nice and quiet lake, offering pleasant walks and constantly changing views, making it a worthwhile excursion for those seeking tranquility. Donaurieder See is also highlighted as a peaceful setting for relaxation.

How accessible are the lakes by public transport or car, and is parking available?

While specific public transport details vary by location, many lakes are well-connected and accessible. For instance, Schmiechener See is well-connected to various quality cycling paths, suggesting good accessibility. Parking is generally available near popular attractions like the Blautopf, though it's always advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and fees.

Most popular routes around Schelklingen

Cycling around Schelklingen

Most popular attractions around Schelklingen

Places to see

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

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

GrundsheimBlaubeurenBlausteinDornstadtAllmendingenEhingen (Donau)OberdischingenHüttisheimLangenauMerklingenGriesingenIllerkirchbergBeimerstettenHeroldstattÖpfingenEmerkingenRottenackerAsselfingenUnterwachingenOberstadionLaichingenUnterstadionBernstadtDietenheimStaigNerenstettenBalzheimMunderkingenÖllingenBerghülenSchnürpflingenAmstettenIllerriedenNellingenLonseeSetzingenObermarchtalAltheim (Alb)HolzkirchWeidenstettenUntermarchtalWesterstettenHausen am BussenNeenstettenBörslingenBreitingenRechtensteinEmeringenBallendorfWaldlichtung Blaubeuren

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Allmendingen

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy