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Arendsee

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Lake
—°2
Arendsee (Germany)

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Arendsee is the deepest natural lake in Saxony-Anhalt and is regarded as the landmark of the Altmark region in the northern part of the state. The lake formed in an extraordinary way due to the collapse of an underground salt dome about 1,200 years ago, giving it its characteristic nearly circular shape and its enormous depth. Reaching a maximum depth of approximately 50 meters, the lake features clear waters that make it a popular destination for divers, sailors, and swimmers. On its shores lies the town of Arendsee, known for its former Benedictine nunnery and its long-standing tradition as a climatic health resort. The lake is surrounded by extensive reed beds and forests that serve as nesting grounds for various waterfowl. A highlight for visitors is a trip on the paddle-steamer 'Queen Arendsee', which gives scenic tours across the water. Because of its geological history and ecological significance, Arendsee is a unique natural monument in the North German Plain.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C014914171919151051
Rain mm594344355260836150525156

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
To reach Arendsee in the Altmark region (Saxony-Anhalt), follow local roads. Accessing this subsidised lake usually starts from the nearest towns.
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Best season
The best season for Arendsee in Germany is generally during mild summer months. Clear weather features a striking view of the subsidised lake area.
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Terrain & paths
Walking at Arendsee features the terrain of a subsidised lake with nature trails. The landscape in Germany provides a mildly challenging route.
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What to bring
For exploring the subsidised lake at Arendsee, bring sturdy hiking shoes. In Germany, carrying water and basic weather protection is standard.
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Parking
Parking near Arendsee requires leaving cars in official spots in the Altmark region. Early arrival secures a convenient base for the local lake.
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Safety
Safety at Arendsee means strictly following rules for a subsidised lake in Germany. Staying in marked zones ensures a secure and pleasant visit.
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Time needed
Visiting Arendsee and its subsidised lake ecosystem usually takes two to four hours. Lovers of the German natural environment often extend stays.

Geography

Coordinates
52.89000, 11.48000

Facts

  • Arendsee has a surface area of approximately 5.1 square kilometers.
  • The deepest point of the lake reaches about 50 meters below the surface.
  • The salt dome collapse in 822 AD was actually recorded in contemporary historical chronicles.
  • Underwater excavations have revealed remains of pile dwellings dating back to the Neolithic era.
  • The lake is endorheic, meaning it has no natural surface outlet for its waters.
  • The local Benedictine monastery was established in 1183 and still stands on the shore.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

📍Arendsee2 km · SExplore →
📍Wittenberge22 km · NEExplore →
📍Salzwedel23 km · WExplore →
📍Osterburg23 km · SEExplore →
📍Lüchow24 km · WExplore →
📍Bismark25 km · SExplore →
📍Kalbe (Milde)27 km · SExplore →
📍Perleberg33 km · NEExplore →

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 Arendsee (2)

Badestelle Zießau🎡 recreation

Badestelle Zießau: a swimming spot on Lake Arendsee near the village of Zießau.

Pferdeschwemme🎡 recreation

Pferdeschwemme: a historic horse watering place, now a swimming spot on Lake Arendsee.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you swim in Lake Arendsee?
Yes, the Arendsee beach gives a fine sandy shore and excellent water quality for swimming.
How was the lake formed?
Lake Arendsee is a collapse lake formed by the subsidence of an underground salt dome thousands of years ago.
Are there boat tours on the lake?
Yes, the historic paddle steamer 'Queen Arendsee' provides regular sightseeing tours.
How deep is the lake?
With a depth of up to 50 meters, Lake Arendsee is the deepest natural lake in Saxony-Anhalt.
Are there sights near the lake?
Right on the lakeshore is the Romanesque Benedictine nunnery of Arendsee, which can be visited.
Arendsee: where is it located?
Arendsee is located in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
Arendsee: what is there to see?
Highlights include Badestelle Zießau, Pferdeschwemme.
Arendsee: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Arendsee: why is it worth visiting?
Arendsee is the deepest natural lake in Saxony-Anhalt and is regarded as the landmark of the Altmark region in the northern part of the state.
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