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Kriebstein Reservoir

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

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The Kriebstein Reservoir is a significant water management structure and recreational area in central Saxony, created by damming the Zschopau River. The dam was constructed between 1927 and 1930, primarily for hydroelectric power generation and flood protection. Standing approximately 28 meters high with a crest length of 230 meters, it creates a reservoir about nine kilometers long. The reservoir is set in an appealing low mountain landscape characterized by steep rocky banks and dense forests. A major cultural highlight nearby is Kriebstein Castle, regarded as Saxony's most beautiful knight's castle, perched steeply on a rock above the Zschopau. The area around the lake is a favorite destination for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and anglers, with passenger boat services offering regular tours across the reservoir. Additionally, the reservoir is famous for the Kriebstein Lake Stage, which hosts operetta and musical performances during the summer months against a unique natural backdrop.

Location: Saxony, Germany
Top sights: Carolahöhe · Gerüstpfeilerviadukt · Schillerhöhe
Nearby: Hartha (4 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	3	9	13	17	19	19	14	9	4	0
Rain mm	62	42	48	38	64	70	85	76	59	53	59	59

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

This very popular dam lake in Saxony is most easily reached by private car via local regional roads, with some supplementary bus connections also generally available from the directly neighboring towns.

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Best season

The significantly warmer months from late spring to early autumn generally provide the very best conditions for comfortably renting boats, taking scenic ferry rides, or hiking along the forested banks.

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Terrain & paths

The trails that directly trace the water's edge often wind through undulating forest terrain, occasionally featuring steeper sections, exposed tree roots, and generally uneven, highly natural surfaces.

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What to bring

Good quality, closed-toe footwear with adequate grip is typically heavily recommended for the forest paths, and carrying an effective insect repellent is always highly advisable during the mid-summer months.

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Parking

Official parking facilities are mostly concentrated right near the main dam structure and the primary recreational hubs, conveniently accommodating visitors specifically aiming for boat rentals or ferry docks.

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Safety

Hikers should be extremely cautious on the forest paths due to slipping hazards after recent rainfalls, and watersports enthusiasts should always meticulously adhere to the safety guidelines provided by rental operators.

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Time needed

A typical excursion to this location often lasts anywhere between two and five hours, usually allowing more than enough time for a leisurely hike followed by a relaxing boat ride or a lovely waterfront meal.

Geography

Coordinates

51.06670, 13.01670

Facts

Dam construction period: 1927–1930
Height of the dam: approx. 28 meters
Reservoir length: around 9 kilometers
Hydroelectric plant generates green power
Home to a floating lake stage
Proximity to the historic Kriebstein Castle

Explore nearby

Notable places around

📍Hartha4 km · NWExplore →

📍Döbeln9 km · NEExplore →

📍Mittweida9 km · SExplore →

📍Roßwein12 km · EExplore →

📍Leisnig12 km · NWExplore →

📍Hainichen13 km · SEExplore →

📍Colditz15 km · WExplore →

📍Rochlitz15 km · WExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kriebstein Reservoir (10)

Carolahöhe

Viewpoint overlooking the Kriebstein Reservoir and the Zschopau valley.

Gerüstpfeilerviadukt

Steel truss railway bridge crossing the Zschopau river valley.

Schillerhöhe

Viewpoint above the reservoir, named after Friedrich Schiller.

AP Goldene Höhe

Viewpoint with panoramic views over Lake Kriebstein.

Stadtkirche St. Nicolai

Evangelical church in Waldheim, late Gothic building with a Baroque tower.

Mehrgenerationenhaus Waldheim - Bergmann's Hof

Cultural and community centre in a historic courtyard in Waldheim.

Stadt- und Museumshaus🏛 museum

Museum of local history in Waldheim, housed in an old burgher house.

Schlosskirche St. Otto

Church on the grounds of Waldheim Castle, of Romanesque origin.

Waldbühne

Ruins of an open-air stage in the forest, once used for theatre performances.

Viadukt Diedenmühle

Stone arch railway bridge spanning the valley near Diedenmühle.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Are there boat trips on the reservoir?

Yes, from spring to autumn, passenger boats run between the dam wall and Mittweida.

Can you swim in the Kriebstein reservoir?

Yes, there are designated swimming areas, including at the Kriebstein campsite.

How far is the reservoir from Kriebstein Castle?

The castle is located directly above the reservoir and can be reached on foot in just a few minutes.

Are there hiking trails around the lake?

An approximately 12 km long circular shore path leads through the wooded surroundings of the reservoir.

Where can I park near the dam?

There are large, paid parking lots for visitors directly at the Kriebstein reservoir dam.

Kriebstein Reservoir: where is it located?

Kriebstein Reservoir is located in Saxony, Germany.

Kriebstein Reservoir: what is there to see?

Highlights include Carolahöhe, Gerüstpfeilerviadukt, Schillerhöhe.

Kriebstein Reservoir: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Kriebstein Reservoir: why is it worth visiting?

The Kriebstein Reservoir is a significant water management structure and recreational area in central Saxony, created by damming the Zschopau River.

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