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Unstrut-Hainich-Kreis

Anrode

Top 20 Lakes around Anrode

Best lakes around Anrode are situated in a region characterized by its diverse natural landscape, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hainich National Park. The area features a mix of natural ponds, reservoirs, and unique geological formations like sinkhole springs. This landscape provides various opportunities for nature discovery and outdoor activities.

Best lakes around Anrode

  • The most popular lakes is Birkunger Reservoir, a lake that offers a calm environment for relaxation. It features a beautiful loop trail around…

Last updated: June 27, 2026

Schwanenteich Mühlhausen

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Unfortunately, due to extensive renovation work, our local recreation area cannot be reached. However, you can still use the restaurants, which are also very good 👍

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Birkunger Reservoir

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A nice calm lake to relax.

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Opfermoor Archaeological Site

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Historically very interesting and informative.

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Kainspring Sinkhole Spring

Highlight • Natural Monument

geologically very interesting place. The sinkhole source is about 25 m deep. The second is nearby. The Melchior fountain.

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Erdfallquelle Melchiorbrunnen

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Geological feature hidden in the jungle

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Marie S.1🚶🏽🥾
July 18, 2025, Erdfallquelle Melchiorbrunnen

The tree-lined spring, at 17 meters wide, is only about half as wide as the Kainspring, but at 23.5 meters deep, almost twice as deep. The Melchiorbrunnen (Melchior Spring) discharges 20 liters per second. The spring's bed consists of meter-deep limestone mud, through which the karst water pushes, causing it to bubble. https://de.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melchiorbrunnen

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Buy your entry chip during the day and enjoy it all in the evening

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Ideal for evening strolls. Nice for unwinding.

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A grassy path with beautiful views of the lake leads along the Sacrificial Moor. With a little luck, you can spot swans, great crested grebes, coots, and, along the shoreline, numerous dragonflies.

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Since 1947, peat has been mined in the Rieth between Oberdorla and Niederdorla. Animal bones and shards have been found time and again. However, when a bison skull, a wooden bowl and parts of a wooden idol were discovered in 1957, the staff of the Museum of Prehistory and Early History in Weimar were informed. It soon became clear that these were not the remains of a settlement, but an ancient cult site.

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The spring area west of Oberdorla is of great importance for the region's drinking water supply. These deep sinkhole springs are of particular interest to karst and cave researchers. VÖLKER (1983) reported: "The bottom of the Melchiorbrunnen consists of meter-high lime mud, the depth of which could not be determined. The water pushes through the lime mud and causes it to bubble. At the bottom there are tree remains that are completely encrusted with lime."

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Kain jump - legend Two boys were playing with marbles west of the village of Oberdorla. One of them was called Kain. While playing, he threw one of his marbles too far, so that it fell into a hole in the ground between some large stones in a small hollow. Kain tried to move the stones aside to get his marble out. When he finally managed to loosen one of the large chunks, a strong jet of water shot towards him, filling the entire hollow. The other boy called out to him in alarm: "Kain jump - otherwise you will drown!" This incident thus gave the sinkhole spring its name.

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If you have the time, definitely take a look.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What unique natural features can I explore around the lakes near Anrode?

The region is known for its distinctive geological formations. You can visit the Kainspring Sinkhole Spring, a natural monument approximately 25 meters deep and 30 meters in diameter, pouring around 100 liters of water per second. Nearby, the Erdfallquelle Melchiorbrunnen is another fascinating sinkhole spring. Additionally, the Hünenteich, located within the Hainich National Park, is a unique dammed-up sinkhole nestled in an unspoiled beech forest, home to diverse flora and fauna.

Are there any family-friendly activities or lakes suitable for children?

Yes, several spots are great for families. The Hünenteich in Hainich National Park offers an easy, family-friendly hiking trail (approx. 5.5 km) with a Wildcat Children's Forest adventure playground and an environmental education station. Schwanenteich Mühlhausen provides pedal boats and a cafe, while Birkunger Reservoir is a calm lake with a beautiful loop trail, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Opfermoor Archaeological Site is also considered family-friendly and offers an educational experience.

Where can I find historical sites or learn about the region's past near these lakes?

The Opfermoor Archaeological Site is historically very interesting, revealing prehistoric remains discovered during peat extraction. The Kainspring Sinkhole Spring has a memorial stone reminding visitors of the former village of Kogen, which existed there from 970 to 1480. Near the Hünenteich, you can also look for the ramparts of the Hünenburg, a late medieval fortification.

What kind of hiking trails are available around the lakes near Anrode?

You can find various hiking opportunities. The Hünenteich in Hainich National Park features a 5.5 km 'Quality Trail for Hiking Germany' that is easy and family-friendly. The Birkunger Reservoir offers a beautiful loop trail around the lake. For more extensive hiking options, explore the nearby routes in the region, which include trails with varying difficulties. You can find more details on these routes in the MTB Trails around Anrode guide, which also lists general hiking routes.

Are there opportunities for cycling or mountain biking near the lakes?

Yes, the area around Anrode offers several cycling and mountain biking routes. You can explore various trails, including those that pass by natural attractions. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, refer to the Cycling around Anrode and Gravel biking around Anrode guides.

What is the best time to visit the lakes and surrounding areas?

The region is particularly beautiful in early summer when the shores of the Hünenteich are adorned with bright yellow water irises. Spring also offers a unique experience with amphibians performing their 'vocal concerts' and orchard meadows 'enchanted by thousands of blossoms.' Autumn provides fallen fruit for wildlife, making it a good time for nature observation.

Are there any cafes or restaurants near the lakes for refreshments?

Yes, Schwanenteich Mühlhausen has a cafe called 'Cabana' offering cakes, ice cream, and various dishes. The Wangenheim Campsite at the Reservoir is also noted for having restaurants, providing a convenient spot for meals and relaxation.

Can I observe wildlife around the lakes?

Absolutely. The Hünenteich, located within the ancient beech forests of Hainich National Park, is a haven for wildlife. You can spot diverse flora and fauna, including amphibians like alpine newts, and in autumn, roe deer and red deer feeding on fallen fruit in the orchard meadows.

What makes the Hünenteich a special place to visit?

The Hünenteich is a unique dammed-up sinkhole within the UNESCO World Heritage Hainich National Park. It's special for its unspoiled beech forest, diverse wildlife, and the 'Quality Trail for Hiking Germany' that circles it. The area also features historical traces like the Hünenburg ramparts and offers family-friendly amenities like a Wildcat Children's Forest adventure playground and picnic spots. It provides a glimpse into primeval Central European forests.

Are there any other notable smaller ponds or reservoirs in the vicinity?

Beyond the main highlights, the region also features the Düsteröder Pond, described as a 'beautiful idyll to linger,' known for its easily observable carp and grass carp. The Wangenheim Campsite at the Reservoir is another 'small pearl in the natural landscape,' offering a nice little reservoir with camping and dining options.

What are the general characteristics of the lakes around Anrode?

The lakes around Anrode are characterized by a diverse mix of natural ponds, reservoirs, and unique geological formations like sinkhole springs. They are often nestled within natural landscapes, including ancient beech forests, and offer opportunities for nature discovery, relaxation, and outdoor activities.

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

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