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Scharmützelsee
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Lake Scharmützelsee is the second-largest natural lake in Brandenburg, covering an area of approximately 12 square kilometers. Located in the Oder-Spree district, it was famously dubbed the 'Märkisches Meer' (Sea of Brandenburg) by the poet Theodor Fontane due to its size and beauty. The lake is of glacial origin, situated in a deep channel carved during the last ice age, giving it a significant depth of up to 29 meters. The most prominent center on the shore is the spa town of Bad Saarow, renowned since the early 20th century for its mud baths and thermal springs, as well as its grand villa architecture. Scharmützelsee is a key hub for water sports and upscale tourism in the Berlin-Brandenburg region. Numerous hiking and cycling paths encircle the lake, offering views of the forested shorelines and reed belts that provide habitat for many waterfowl species.
- Location: Brandenburg, Germany
- Top sights: Badestelle Diensdorf · Badestelle Radlow · Hundebadestelle
- Nearby: Storkow (Mark) (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 14 | 19 | 21 | 20 | 15 | 10 | 5 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 52 | 36 | 40 | 29 | 54 | 56 | 81 | 60 | 48 | 47 | 50 | 46 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Located conveniently in the state of Brandenburg, this expansive lake is highly accessible via regional trains arriving at Bad Saarow or by driving a short distance from the motorways connected to the Berlin area.
Best season
The summer months are incredibly popular for a multitude of water sports and lively resort activities, while the cooler, crisp spring and autumn seasons attract hikers and cyclists looking for a more peaceful retreat.
Terrain & paths
The environment surrounding the lake is distinctly flat to gently rolling, offering excellently maintained, paved waterfront promenades and well-signposted woodland trails that are highly suitable for all fitness levels.
What to bring
Visitors planning a relaxed day only require standard casual clothing and comfortable walking shoes, though bringing a swimsuit and a beach towel during the summer is highly recommended to enjoy the designated swimming spots.
Parking
Extensive, well-marked parking infrastructure is available in the resort town of Bad Saarow and near major beaches, though visitors should anticipate parking fees and potential crowds during sunny summer weekends.
Safety
The area is exceptionally safe with established tourist infrastructure, requiring only standard precautions regarding water safety, such as observing local warning flags and remaining within the clearly marked swimming zones.
Time needed
A typical excursion can easily range from a pleasant two-hour shoreline stroll to a comprehensive full-day outing integrating cycling entirely around the lake, enjoying local restaurants, and engaging in various water sports.
Geography
Facts
- Surface area of approx. 12.1 km², maximum length of 10 km.
- Maximum depth reaches 29 meters.
- Bad Saarow was officially granted the title of 'Spa' (Bad) in 1923.
- The lake is connected to the Dahme river via the Storkower Canal.
- The glacial channel is part of the Storkow lake and stream landscape.
- The holiday resort of Wendisch Rietz is located on the southern shore.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Scharmützelsee (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the lake called 'Märkisches Meer'?
It owes its name to Theodor Fontane, as it is one of Brandenburg's largest lakes at approx. 12 sq km.
Which town is located directly on Scharmützelsee?
The most famous resort town on the lake is Bad Saarow, famous for its thermal baths and wellness gives.
Can you hike around the lake?
Yes, the loop trail is about 28 km long and is suitable for experienced hikers or cyclists.
Are there scheduled boat tours on Scharmützelsee?
Yes, the Scharmützelsee shipping company provides sightseeing tours and scheduled services between various piers.
What sports activities can you do at Scharmützelsee?
Besides sailing and surfing, there are top-class golf courses nearby (A-ROSA Resort).
Scharmützelsee: where is it located?
Scharmützelsee is located in Brandenburg, Germany.
Scharmützelsee: what is there to see?
Highlights include Badestelle Diensdorf, Badestelle Radlow, Hundebadestelle.
Scharmützelsee: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Scharmützelsee: why is it worth visiting?
Lake Scharmützelsee is the second-largest natural lake in Brandenburg, covering an area of approximately 12 square kilometers.
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