Top 20 Lakes in Cottbus
Best lakes in Cottbus are found in this city in Brandenburg, Germany, offering diverse recreational opportunities and natural landscapes. The region features a mix of natural and artificial lakes, including the developing Cottbuser Ostsee. This area is characterized by its transformation from an industrial landscape into a significant recreational zone. Cottbus provides access to various water bodies, from large artificial lakes to smaller, historic park lakes.
Best lakes in Cottbus
- The most popular lakes is Merzdorf Observation Tower, a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the Cottbuser Ostsee. Visitors can climb 173 steps to reach the viewing platform at a height of 34 meters.
- Another must-see spot is Water Pyramid in Branitz Park, a man-made monument within a historic park. This site is part of a 100-hectare park featuring landscaped gardens, unique architectural elements, and several lakes.
- Visitors also love Black Lake and the Swan House in Branitz Park, a lake known for its scenic beauty. It provides views of the castle bridge and the distinctive swan house, often with trumpet swans on its waters.
- Cottbus is known for artificial lakes, historic park lakes, and bathing lakes. These include large-scale transformation projects like Cottbuser Ostsee, serene park settings, and accessible bathing spots.
- The lakes in Cottbus are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 700 upvotes and more than 370 photos shared across 27 highlights.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
Cottbuser Ostsee inlet structure
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Merzdorf Observation Tower
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Water Pyramid in Branitz Park
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From May to October you can always invite your loved ones for a gondola ride on the first Sunday of Monday. The rides start on the flower lake and then lead on the artificial waterways through the park.
The landscape park is rightly since 2004 to the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage.
pueckler-museum.de/park-und-schloss/park.html
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Black Lake and the Swan House in Branitz Park
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Amtsteich Fountain in Goethe Park
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Lakoma Memorial and Cottbus Lake Inlet
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Cottbus Sea
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Ponds at the Spree Weir
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Next door there is delicious food in the Spreewehrmühle.
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Madlow Bathing Lake
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Flamingo Lagoon
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Tips from the Community
A beautiful park near the city center with many sights.
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Observation tower with superb panoramic views
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The Black Lake was created by expanding and redesigning the old Branitz village pond. On Fuchsinsel (Fox Island) stands the Swiss-style Swan House. Prince Pückler brought a model of it back from a trip to Salzburg, based on which he had it constructed and erected around 1850. The Fish Balcony was built on the shore of the Black Lake as early as 1849. The cast-iron railing, designed by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, was added in 1863. From here, one enjoys a panoramic view, including the Mondberge (Mountain Mountains) with the Moon Stele. https://www.pueckler-museum.de/parkbauten/
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Leaving Cottbus on the Spree Cycle Path toward Branitz or Burg, you'll pass a rather inconspicuous but worthwhile gem just beyond the city center: the ponds at the Spreewehr. The path here runs along a well-maintained gravel section that winds gently between water and trees. Especially in autumn, when the leaves change color and the water's surface appears like a dark mirror, there's a special atmosphere in the air here – tranquil, almost a little otherworldly. It's not an official rest area, but anyone who spots the bench on the bank will want to stay a few minutes longer. Convenient: If you stop here, you're almost out of the city. The city is behind you, and the landscape slowly opens up in front of you. A good place for a quiet break before the next stage calls.
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A very beautiful park in the middle of the city.
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Fishing yes 🎣, swimming no.🚱 Next door there is delicious food in the Spreewehrmühle.
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Please keep the area clean ✌🏻
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Pretty little park on the north side of the mill island. Right next door is the Wilhelmsmühle and the old power station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main types of lakes found in Cottbus?
Cottbus features a diverse range of lakes, including large-scale artificial lakes like the developing Cottbuser Ostsee, serene historic park lakes such as those in Branitz Park, and accessible bathing lakes like Branitzer Badesee. This mix offers various recreational opportunities, from water sports to tranquil walks.
Where can I find panoramic views of the Cottbuser Ostsee?
For breathtaking panoramic views of the emerging Cottbuser Ostsee, visit the Merzdorf Observation Tower. You can climb 173 steps to reach the viewing platform at a height of 34 meters, offering a unique perspective of the lake's transformation.
Are there any historical or architectural landmarks near the lakes?
Yes, Branitz Park, home to several lakes, features significant landmarks. You can explore the Water Pyramid in Branitz Park, a unique man-made monument, and the picturesque Black Lake and the Swan House, which offers views of the castle bridge and the distinctive swan house.
Which lakes are suitable for swimming and bathing in Cottbus?
Branitzer Badesee is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, offering a snack bar during summer and a nudist beach section. Madlower See also allows bathing, though it's at your own risk as there is no official supervision, and water quality can vary.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Cottbus?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. A 24 km circular cycling path is being developed around the Cottbuser Ostsee, easily accessible from the Spreewald cucumber cycle path. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling and MTB trails, that pass by or near the lakes. For more options, check out the Road Cycling Routes in Cottbus or MTB Trails in Cottbus guides.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes, especially for families?
Absolutely. Branitz Park offers easy walking trails around its lakes, including the Black Lake. Branitzer Badesee is encircled by a 1.7-kilometer-long shore and hiking trail perfect for walking. Madlower See is also popular for leisurely walks. For more options, explore the Easy hikes in Cottbus guide.
Is Madlower See suitable for dog owners?
Madlower See is a favored spot for dog owners, who often enjoy strolling through the Madlower gorges with their pets. It offers a tranquil setting for walks in a natural environment close to the city.
What is the Cottbuser Ostsee, and what activities are planned there?
The Cottbuser Ostsee is a significant artificial lake created from a former lignite mine, projected to be Germany's largest. The flooding was completed in December 2024. It aims to become a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with future facilities for surfing, water skiing, and boating, alongside a circular cycling path and observation tower.
Are there places to eat or get refreshments near the lakes?
Yes, Branitzer Badesee has a snack bar at its northern tip during the summer. Near the Ponds at the Spree Weir, you can find delicious food at the Spreewehrmühle. Additionally, the Cavalier House in Branitz Park hosts a restaurant.
How can I reach the lakes in Cottbus using public transport?
While specific public transport routes vary, the lakes in Cottbus are generally accessible. Madlower See, for instance, is easily accessible within the Volkspark Madlower Schluchten. For detailed public transport information, it's best to consult local transport schedules or the Cottbus tourism website.
What makes the Black Lake in Branitz Park unique?
The Black Lake in Branitz Park is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering picturesque views of the castle bridge, Fuchsinsel (Fox Island), and the distinctive swan house. Visitors often have the chance to see trumpet swans gracefully navigating its waters, adding to its charm and peaceful atmosphere.
Are there any memorial sites related to the lakes' history?
Yes, the Lakoma Memorial and Cottbus Lake Inlet marks the former village of Lakoma, which made way for the mine that is now transforming into the Cottbuser Ostsee. Information boards at the inlet structure provide details about the lake's creation and the area's history.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted around the lakes?
Around the Black Lake in Branitz Park, you might spot trumpet swans. The developing Cottbuser Ostsee, as a new natural area, is expected to attract various bird species and other wildlife as its ecosystem matures. The general natural surroundings of the lakes offer opportunities for wildlife observation.
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