Best lakes around Lange Rhön, a basalt plateau and significant part of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve in central Germany, offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The region is characterized by natural, moor, and basalt lakes. These lakes provide opportunities for activities such as swimming, fishing, and nature observation. The area is valued for its ecological significance and educational trails.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The "Moor Eye" is a stop on the nature trail. It focuses on the formation of the small lakes in the moor. Along the walkway, 23 information panels provide fascinating insights into the formation of the raised bog and its flora and fauna.
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On the nature trail through the moor – a two-kilometer-long boardwalk – you can discover rare animal and plant species. The Black Moor is the best-preserved and still-growing raised bog in Germany's low mountain ranges. The moor is located in the Rhön Biosphere Reserve, in the border triangle of Bavaria, Hesse, and Thuringia – a unique cultural landscape in the heart of Germany. The area offers a wealth of exciting outdoor excursions. You can find more information here: https://nationale-naturlandschaften.de/gebiete/biosphaerenreservat-rhoen.
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A different face in every season, and even the time of day often makes it appear in new splendor... beautiful to look at... but you are rarely really alone here
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Fine circular route through the moor... easy and manageable for everyone
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A lot of interesting facts are conveyed here for young and old.. entertaining, informative
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Visually very appealing with the typical flat vegetation outside.
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The Lange Rhön region is known for its diverse natural landscapes, including moor and basalt lakes. You can explore the unique ecosystem of the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail, which features a well-preserved raised bog and a two-kilometer-long boardwalk with information boards. Another significant feature is the Basalt Lake, formed in a former basalt mining crater, showcasing the region's volcanic past.
Yes, several areas around the lakes are family-friendly. The Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail is particularly suitable, offering an easy and manageable circular route on a boardwalk, making it accessible for all ages. The Great Moor Eye (Black Moor), located along this trail, also provides an engaging experience with information about the bog's formation and wildlife.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, you can find various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are traffic-free bike rides, including routes like the 'Rotes Moor Pond – Jagdschloss Holzberghof loop'. Hikers can explore mountain hikes, such as the 'Pferdskopf Summit – Guckaisee loop'. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails like the 'Jagdschloss Holzberghof – Heidelstein Sender Trail loop' available in the MTB Trails around Lange Rhön guide.
The Guckaisee, located between Eube, Pferdskopf, and Wasserkuppe, is known for its two sections, one of which serves as a popular bathing lake with a diving platform and sunbathing area. However, bathing is prohibited in some natural areas like the Basalt Lake to protect nature and wildlife within the Rhön Biosphere Reserve.
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for hiking, cycling, and swimming in designated areas like Guckaisee. Autumn brings beautiful foliage, while winter can offer unique opportunities for winter hiking, especially around the moor landscapes, though conditions may vary.
Yes, the region offers several scenic viewpoints. The Great Moor Eye (Black Moor) itself is a visually appealing spot within the moor. Additionally, there's a dedicated Bench overlooking Basaltsee, providing a great place to rest and enjoy the view of the lake and its impressive basalt prism wall.
The moor lakes, such as the one in the Red Moor and the Moorauge Pond, are part of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve and are significant for their unique ecosystems. These areas are home to rare animal and plant species adapted to high moor environments. Information boards along the nature trails often highlight the specific flora and fauna you might encounter.
Yes, some lakes offer facilities. For instance, near the Basalt Lake, you can find a car park, a kiosk, and a barbecue station, making it a convenient destination for a break. The Guckaisee also has amenities catering to bathers and visitors.
The moor lakes, like the one in the Red Moor and the Great Moor Eye (Black Moor), are special because they are integral parts of the Rhön Biosphere Reserve's unique raised bogs. These bogs are among the best-preserved in Germany's low mountain ranges, offering a rare glimpse into a distinct ecosystem formed over millennia, often with specific restoration efforts to maintain their natural state.
Yes, the Schwarzes Moor Nature Trail offers a fine circular route through the moor, which is easy and manageable for everyone. This trail guides visitors through the unique landscape, including past the Moorauge Pond, providing an immersive experience of the bog's formation and its inhabitants.


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