4.5
(3069)
17,370
hikers
868
hikes
Hiking around Kiessee, Germany, offers accessible trails centered around a 15-hectare lake, a former gravel pit transformed into a recreational area. The region features wetlands, a bird island, and connections to the Leine River, providing diverse natural settings. Paths are predominantly flat, making them suitable for various skill levels. The landscape includes blooming wildflowers, abundant trees, and areas of near-natural landscape development.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.7
(67)
628
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
36
hikers
6.00km
01:32
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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14
hikers
2.59km
00:40
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
10
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(8)
32
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A beautiful, easy-to-ride path
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Popular bench on the north bank.
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A bench in the shade with a beautiful view of the lake.
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The Göttingen Kiessee is a 15-hectare lake on the southwestern outskirts of the city. Formed by gravel mining, it has become one of Göttingen's most important recreational areas. The approximately 2.5-kilometer-long lakeside path is popular with joggers, walkers, and anglers throughout the year. The lake is only one to two meters deep and, as a result, is threatened by algal blooms and accelerated silting. To improve the freshwater supply, an inlet was built in 2003 to divert water from the Leine River, which flows east of the lake, into the lake. From an ecological perspective, however, this measure is completely pointless, as intensive agriculture in the Leine catchment area washes large quantities of fertilizer into the river, and these nutrients further accelerate the silting of the Kiessee. Therefore, the inlet is reduced or even closed, especially in warm early summers. http://stadt-natur-wildnis.de/wild/kiessee-goettingen/
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An institution in Göttingen - rowing on the Kiessee
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There are over 900 hiking routes around Kiessee that are accessible from bus stations, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels.
Yes, Kiessee is particularly well-suited for easy hikes. Over 580 of the bus-accessible trails are rated as easy, featuring mostly flat and well-maintained paths perfect for a relaxed outing. An example is the Kiessee Göttingen Loop – Kiessee North Shore loop from Göttingen, which is just under 3 km long.
The trails around Kiessee are generally flat and easy to navigate, making them suitable for most hikers. The area is centered around the lake, so elevation changes are minimal. You'll find paths through wetlands, along the lake shore, and connecting to the Leine River.
Yes, many of the trails around Kiessee are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point, often conveniently near a bus stop. For instance, the View of the Göttinger Kiessee – South Shore of Kiessee loop from Göttingen offers a pleasant circular walk with lake views.
The main attraction is the 15-hectare Kiessee, Göttingen itself, with its serene atmosphere and diverse birdlife. You can also explore the North Shore of Kiessee Göttingen and the South Shore of Kiessee. The surrounding wetlands are home to various bird species, and you might spot herons or kingfishers. The trails also connect to the Leine River, offering additional natural scenery.
Yes, the trails around Kiessee are generally dog-friendly. Many local hikers enjoy walking their dogs here. However, always keep your dog on a leash, especially near wildlife protection areas like the 'Vogelinsel' (bird island) and be mindful of other visitors.
Absolutely. The mostly flat and accessible paths make Kiessee ideal for families. There's also a children's playground, picnic spots, and even pedal boat rentals at the Pedal Boat Dock at Kiessee, providing additional activities for kids.
Kiessee is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer vibrant flora and blooming wildflowers, while autumn brings colorful foliage. Even in winter, the paths are generally accessible for a refreshing walk. The lake's birdlife is particularly active in spring and autumn.
Yes, Kiessee is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find the Restaurant Kredo at Kiessee directly by the lake, offering a convenient spot for a meal or refreshment. There are also numerous picnic and barbecue spots available for public use.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,900 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene lake views, the ease of access via public transport, and the well-maintained, flat paths that are perfect for a relaxing walk or run. The abundance of nature and birdlife is also frequently highlighted.
While many trails are easy, you can find longer, moderate options that extend beyond the immediate lake loop. For example, the South Shore of Kiessee – Leine River at the south shore of Kiessee loop from Rosdorf offers a moderate 11.9 km hike that connects the lake with the Leine River, providing a more extended exploration of the surrounding landscape.


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