Top 6 Lakes in Freiwald
Lakes in Freiwald are found across two distinct geographical regions: one in Saxony, Germany, and another in Upper Austria, part of the Gratzen Mountains. The Austrian Freiwald, also known as Freiwald and Weinsberger Wald, is characterized by unspoiled nature, including meadows, peat bogs, and numerous ponds. The Freiwald in Saxony features historical artificial lakes with recreational uses. Both areas offer diverse natural landscapes and water features for exploration.
Best lakes in Freiwald
- The most popular lakes is Rosenhof Ponds, a lake that features mirror-smooth water and a scenic landscape. These ponds were originally used for timber storage and are now a scenic attraction.
- Another must-see spot is Kleiner Rosenhoferteich, a lake where bathing is permitted. This pond was historically created for timber transport.
- Visitors also love Großer Rosenhofteich Boathouse, a lake that is part of the Rosenhof Forestry Estate. The ponds were originally used for timber storage, and the moor-containing water is considered healthy.
- Freiwald is known for artificial lakes, forest ponds, and natural ponds. The region offers a variety of water features, from historical mining reservoirs to secluded forest retreats.
- The lakes in Freiwald are appreciated by the komoot community, with 72 upvotes and 63 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Rosenhof Ponds
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Großer Rosenhofteich Boathouse
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Swimming is not permitted in the large pond, but swimming is permitted in the small pond. However, the dark water takes some getting used to and requires a bit of courage.
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Kleiner Rosenhoferteich
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Swimming is not permitted in the large pond, but swimming is permitted in the small pond. However, the dark water takes some getting used to and requires a bit of courage.
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Silbersee Quarry
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Stunning view at Schafriedel
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Tips from the Community
The ponds belong to the Rosenhof Forestry Estate and were originally used for timber storage. Swimming is not permitted in the large pond, but swimming is permitted in the small pond. However, the dark water takes some getting used to and requires a bit of courage.
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The ponds belong to the Rosenhof Forestry Estate and were originally used for timber storage. Swimming is not permitted in the large pond, but swimming is permitted in the small pond. However, the dark water takes some getting used to and requires a bit of courage.
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The ponds belong to the Rosenhof Forestry Estate and were originally used for timber storage. Swimming is not permitted in the large pond, but swimming is permitted in the small pond. However, the dark water takes some getting used to and requires a bit of courage.
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From the Edlbauer rock, the trail markers show the further course of the trail in a south-easterly direction and you reach an impressive rock wall with a lake underneath.
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Beautiful lake which is very popular as a bathing lake in summer.
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Both ponds are approximately 600 meters long and 300 meters wide. The smaller (lower) one is a public bathing lake, while the upper one is not open to the public. The Flammbach flows through the ponds and flows into the Schwarze Aist. This in turn flows via the Waldaist into the Aist and thus into the Danube. The Rosenhof ponds were built in 1823 primarily to have enough water for the timber float. The timber float was almost 80 kilometers long, the gradient was 650 meters; there were 50 weirs along the route. In the 19th and 20th centuries, a lot of timber was floated every spring via the Flammbach, the Schwarze Aist and the Waldaist into the Aist, where the logs were then tied into large rafts in Au on the Danube and taken to Vienna. It was not until 1947 that the laborious and dangerous timber floating process was stopped – the logs could now be transported more cheaply by truck and rail.
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Bicycle access is still permitted to the Kleiner Rosenhofteich, there is even a signposted free bathing area - behind that there are official bans everywhere 🙄
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Easy hike! Suitable for all ages!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes in Freiwald are best for swimming?
For swimming, the Kleiner Rosenhoferteich is a great option, as bathing is permitted there. The moor-containing water is considered healthy. In the Westerwald Lake District, Postweiher also offers a natural beach for swimming.
Are there family-friendly activities around the Freiwald lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly experiences. The Rosenhof Ponds and Kleiner Rosenhoferteich are noted as family-friendly highlights. In the Westerwald Lake District, Dreifelder Weiher and Postweiher provide opportunities for renting rowing boats, pedal boats, and stand-up paddleboarding. Additionally, there are family-friendly hikes in Freiwald, such as the loop around Kleiner Rosenhoferteich and Großer Rosenhofteich Boathouse.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The Freiwald region is known for its unspoiled nature, including meadows, peat bogs, and dense forests. The Rosenhof Ponds offer a scenic landscape with mirror-smooth water. In the Westerwald Lake District, lakes like Haidenweiher are protected natural biotopes, excellent for observing diverse animal and plant life, including rare wading birds and waterfowl like egrets and lapwings.
Are there hiking trails near the Freiwald lakes?
Absolutely. The Freiwald region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can find easy hikes in Freiwald, including a loop around Kleiner Rosenhoferteich and Rosenhof Ponds. The Westerwald Lake District features over 130 kilometers of marked trails, such as the 31 km "7 Pond Trail" and stages of the 235-kilometer Westerwald Climb long-distance hiking trail that pass by Postweiher.
What historical significance do the Freiwald lakes have?
Many lakes in Freiwald, particularly those in the Austrian region, were originally created for timber storage and transport, such as the Rosenhof Ponds and Kleiner Rosenhoferteich, dating back to the 1830s. In the Westerwald Lake District, the seven interconnected lakes were originally dammed by monks centuries ago for fish farming.
Can I go cycling around the lakes in Freiwald?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Westerwald Lake District offers a 20 km "Radrundweg Seenplatte" cycling path, which is suitable for families due to its gentle terrain, passing by lakes like Dreifelder Weiher. For more challenging rides, you can explore MTB Trails in Freiwald.
What is the best time to visit the Freiwald lakes?
The Freiwald lakes are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, for hiking, cycling, and water activities. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while spring brings fresh greenery and birdwatching opportunities. Some tips for Kleiner Rosenhoferteich mention the start of winter, suggesting year-round appeal for different activities.
Are there any viewpoints overlooking the lakes?
Yes, there are scenic viewpoints. The Rosenhof Ponds are considered a viewpoint, offering a wonderful landscape. Additionally, the Stunning view at Schafriedel provides an awesome perspective of the Höllautteich, though it's a bit off the main path.
What kind of wildlife can be observed around the Freiwald lakes?
The protected natural biotopes within the Westerwald Lake District, such as Haidenweiher, are excellent for wildlife spotting. You can observe diverse animal and plant life, including rare wading birds and waterfowl like red-necked and black-necked grebes, egrets, and lapwings. The Brinkenweiher is home to the endangered bitterling fish.
Are there any unique or hidden lakes in the Freiwald region?
While not entirely hidden, the Silbersee Quarry offers an impressive rock wall with a lake underneath, providing a unique natural monument experience. However, access requires a permit. The Hofmanns, Haiden, Brinken, and Wölflinger ponds in the Westerwald Lake District are protected natural biotopes, offering secluded opportunities for nature observation.
What do visitors enjoy most about the Freiwald lakes?
Visitors frequently appreciate the serene and mirror-smooth waters of places like the Rosenhof Ponds, describing them as a 'paradise on earth.' The healthy moor-containing water of the Kleiner Rosenhoferteich is also a highlight for those who brave a swim. The overall unspoiled nature and diverse recreational opportunities are highly valued.
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