Our Four Favourite Lakes Near Leipzig

Swimming in a wildly romantic stone pool’s deep blue waters at the foot of a historic church—all the makings of a summer fairy tale reveal themselves just half an hour from Leipzig. This former quarry is encircled by rugged granite rocks. Beucha Church overlooks its waters from the comfort of a jagged hilltop. The quarry was flooded in the late 1950s’ after the church was closed its doors. Because Kirchbruch is up to 38 metres deep in some places, it remains pleasantly cool even at the height of summer. If you dip your toes into the water, you’ll find two easily accessible entry points on the quarry’s southeastern and northern shores. Climbing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers can also jump directly from the cliffs or scuba dive in these chilly waters.

Leipzig Edition
p. 74

This 300-hectare lake is tucked away amidst wetlands, riverscapes and pilgrimage trails. Wallendorfer See was transformed from a former open-cast mine into a lake in the early 2000s’. It has been open to the public for bathing since 2018. Bathers are invited to spread out their towels on three designated beaches. They share these shorelines with birds that nest on the islands in the south. Whilst the large sunbathing lawn, with its sandy beach and volleyball court on the lake’s northern shore, attracts flocks of visitors, you’ll come across quieter and more solitary places to recline nearby in the small reed-lined bays. The water here is so clear you can spend hours watching schools of fish from the pier. If you fancy a hike or cycle, we recommend exploring the numerous trails that lead through the surrounding wetlands.

Leipzig Edition
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If you find yourself caught in a stream of bathers heading for Cospudener See and Markkleeberger See on a hot summer’s day, we recommend venturing off the beaten path a little earlier than your fellow sun-seekers. This will guide you to the lesser-known gem called Waldsee. Only a handful of people make their way along these narrow paths, searching for this peaceful lake’s pristine waters, surrounded by trees and reeds. A series of small access points are dotted along the shoreline, making it easy to find a secluded spot to call your own for the day. Recline in the shade under willow branches on Waldsee’s eastern shore, glide into the water from sandy bays that make up its western shore, and watch the passing canoeists from its northern shore.

Leipzig Edition
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Whenever we feel a strong sense of wanderlust, we soothe our sense of longing at Grillensee. As we stand on this white pebble beach and look out over these turquoise blue waters, the South Seas feel closer than ever. Leave familiar cityscapes behind and head towards Leipzig’s southeastern district. Cycle past the Monument to the Battle of the Nations and let the fresh scent of woodlands guide you to the idyllic forest that encircles the lake. Take a break in the shade along the promenade before making your way towards the beach on the lake’s southern shore or birch groves on its eastern shore. The atmosphere around the lake is always relaxed. Divers and anglers are just as happy unwinding in these waters as nudists and dog owners.

Leipzig Edition
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