Which are the largest lakes in Saxony?

Saxony’s largest lakes are situated in the Lusatian Lakeland and Leipzig New Lakeland. Lake Bärwalde is Saxony’s largest inland lake, but Lake Partwitz and Lake Cospuden are also particularly extensive – all offering excellent opportunities for leisure activities and swimming.

Which lake in Saxony has the best water quality?

All of Saxony’s lakes are of a very high water quality and are tested regularly. Lake Kulkwitz near Leipzig and Lake Bärwalde in Upper Lusatia are particularly clear and clean – ideal for carefree swimming and water sports.

Which lakes in Saxony have sandy beaches?

In Saxony, almost all the large lakes boast beautiful sandy beaches. These include Lake Cospuden, which has Saxony’s longest sandy beach, as well as Lakes Markkleeberg, Kulkwitz, Bärwalde, Geierswalde, Partwitz, Berzdorf and Olbersdorf.

Which lakes are particularly child-friendly?

Families feel particularly at home at Lake Cospuden and Lake Partwitz. Gentle shores, playgrounds, safe swimming areas and family-friendly restaurants make them ideal day-out destinations for your little ones.

When is the best time of year for a beach holiday in Saxony?

The best time for a beach holiday is from June to September. During this period, the water temperatures are pleasantly warm, many events take place right by the lakes, and water quality is at its best.

Which lake in Saxony is a real hidden gem?

Try Lake Dreiweibern (Dreiweiberner See) in Upper Lusatia, where you can enjoy peace and quiet, clean water and unspoilt nature – perfect for paddling or simply unwinding far away from the hustle and bustle.

Which lakes in Saxony are good for camping?

Around Pöhl Dam, Lake Bärwalde and Lake Cospuden, you’ll find modern campsites with direct access to the water. Ideal for caravanning, family camping or simply a break in the countryside.

Where are the best water sports spots in Saxony?

Leipzig New Lakeland and the Lusatian Lakeland are Saxony's top spots for sailing, surfing and stand-up paddleboarding, with vast stretches of water, hire centres and ideal wind conditions.

Where can I find good dog-friendly beaches in Saxony?

You’ll find excellent dog-friendly beaches all across Saxony. Leipzig New Lakeland offers great stretches along Lake Cospuden and Lake Kulkwitz. Upper Lusatia boasts extensive beaches at Lake Bärwalde, Lake Geierswalde and Lake Dreiweibern. In the Vogtland region, the Pöhl Dam also attracts visitors with three designated dog areas.

Where is nude bathing permitted in Saxony?

Nudism is permitted at many lakes in Saxony, such as Lake Cospuden and Lake Zwenkau. The signposted nudist areas (FKK) are usually situated away from the main beaches and offer peace and privacy.

Yes, Saxony has beaches!

Lakeside holidays

Lakes and water fun in Saxony

Did you know that Saxony also offers long sandy beaches, romantic harbours, stunning sunsets and a wide range of water sports? From Leipzig New Lakeland with the popular Lake Cospuden to the Lusatian Lakeland with lakes such as Bärwalder See and Geierswalder See, you'll find impressive waterscapes with well-maintained beaches, cycling trails and countless leisure opportunities. Discover 10 of Saxony's most beautiful lakes for swimming and find your perfect spot by the water.

Whether you're looking for a relaxing day at the lake or an active outdoor adventure, Saxony has something for everyone. Try stand-up paddling, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, wakeboarding or water skiing, explore picturesque lakes and rivers, or simply unwind on one of the many sandy beaches. With modern infrastructure, family-friendly facilities and spectacular scenery, Saxony has become one of Germany's most exciting destinations for lakeside holidays and water sports.

At a glance

More water adventures in Saxony

By region

10 of Saxony's most beautiful lakes for swimming

Lake Cospuden
Lake Markkleeberg
Lake Kulkwitz
Lake Störmthal
Lake Bärwalde
Lake Geierswalde
Lake Partwitz
Lake Berzdorf
Pöhl Dam
Kriebstein Dam

Leipzig New Lakeland

Where vast open-cast mines once dominated the landscape, Leipzig New Lakeland has become a vibrant recreational region with more than 20 lakes, combining nature, outdoor activities, and the cultural flair of nearby Leipzig.

Lake Cospuden is home to Saxony's longest sandy beach and offers a unique boating connection directly to Leipzig's city centre. Adventure seekers can head to Lake Markkleeberg, where a canoe park features one of Europe's premier artificial white-water courses for rafting, kayaking, and competitive paddling. Divers, meanwhile, are drawn to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kulkwitz, one of Central Germany's most popular diving destinations.

Whether relaxing on turquoise shores or enjoying adrenaline-filled adventures on the water, Leipzig New Lakeland seamlessly combines urban culture with diverse outdoor experiences for all ages. A striking symbol of the region's transformation is the floating art installation VINETA, which commemorates the villages that disappeared beneath the lakes during the area's mining era.

#1 Lake Cospuden

Discover Saxony’s longest sandy beach just outside Leipzig

Lake Cospuden – affectionately known as "Cossi" – is Leipzig's favourite summer escape. With its long sandy beach, turquoise waters and a wide range of activities on and around the lake, it offers the perfect holiday atmosphere. Enjoy stand-up paddling, beach volleyball, sailing or a relaxing boat trip.

For a more laid-back experience, watch the sunset from the northern beach or unwind at one of the cosy lakeside cafés and restaurants. Well-maintained cycling and skating paths, including the popular New Lakeland Cycle Route, circle the lake, making it an ideal destination for active days with family or friends.

Often referred to as Leipzig's Mediterranean, Lake Cospuden attracts thousands of visitors on warm summer days. Thanks to its gently sloping shores, excellent facilities and family-friendly atmosphere, it is one of Saxony's most popular lakes for swimming, water sports and outdoor recreation.

Lake Cospuden facts and figures

Where: Leipzig Region
Surface area: approx. 4.36 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 55 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, cycling, inline skating, boat cruises, beach volleyball, lakeside dining
Sandy beaches: North Beach (approx. 2 km, Saxony's longest artificial sandy beach)
Parking: several public car parks available (including North Beach, Zöbigk Harbour and East Beach)

#2 Lake Markkleeberg

White-water canoe park and swimming fun near Leipzig

At Lake Markkleeberg, water turns into adventure. Home to the Markkleeberg Canoe Park, one of Europe's most exciting white-water facilities, the lake offers plenty of adrenaline-filled activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Families will enjoy the safe swimming coves, dog-friendly beach and relaxed lakeside promenade lined with cafés and restaurants.

Whether you prefer sailing, stand-up paddling or cycling along the scenic shoreline, Lake Markkleeberg combines active recreation with a laid-back holiday atmosphere just outside Leipzig. There's also a climbing park with a zipline, offering spectacular panoramic views across the lake.

Thanks to its wide range of outdoor and water sports activities, Lake Markkleeberg is one of the most active destinations in Leipzig New Lakeland.

Lake Markkleeberg facts and figures

Where: Leipzig Region
Surface area: approx. 2.52 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 57 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, white-water rafting and canoeing, adventure golf, climbing park, cycling, boat cruises, lakeside dining
Sandy beaches: several sandy beach areas, including family-friendly and dog-friendly beaches
Parking: public car parks available, including at the canoe park, Auenhain Beach and lakeside promenade
Lakeside accommodation: SeePark Auenhain right on the lakeshore offers comfortable holiday homes and apartments with stunning lake views, a wellness area, restaurant and direct access to the recreational activities around Lake Markkleeberg. Since August 2026, a newly-built lakeside youth hostel offers 58 modern en-suite rooms, a lakeside café and outdoor areas for groups and active travellers.

#3 Lake Kulkwitz

A crystal-clear lake and diver’s paradise

Affectionately known as "Kulki", Lake Kulkwitz is one of Germany's cleanest lakes and a favourite destination for swimming, relaxation and water sports. Its crystal-clear water and exceptional underwater visibility have made it one of the country's top diving spots, attracting divers from across Germany.

Whether you're into diving, wakeboarding, water skiing, sailing or a leisurely paddle across the lake, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast. Families appreciate the well-maintained beaches, playgrounds, boat rentals and shaded picnic areas, while the scenic 8-kilometre circular trail is perfect for walking, cycling or jogging beneath mature trees.

Combining outstanding water quality, beautiful natural surroundings and a wide range of leisure activities, Lake Kulkwitz is the perfect destination for active summer days or a relaxing lakeside getaway.

Lake Kulkwitz

Lake Kulkwitz facts and figures

Where: Leipzig Region
Surface area: approx. 1,7 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 32 m
Activities: swimming, diving, sailing, windsurfing, fishing, stand-up paddling, cycling
Sandy beaches: several sandy beach areas (Miltitz, Göhrenz and Markranstädt)
Parking: public car parks are available around the lake, including at Lausener Weg and Seestraße.
Lakeside accommodation: the campsite at Lake Kulkwitz offers pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as cosy holiday bungalows just a few steps from the water. With direct access to the beach and the lake's wide range of recreational activities, it is an ideal base for a relaxing lakeside holiday or an active outdoor getaway.

#4 Lake Störmthal

A lake with floating art

Lake Störmthal is one of Leipzig New Lakeland's highlights, combining watersports, nature, and culture in a unique setting. Created from a former open-cast lignite mine, the lake now offers sandy beaches, a modern marina, scenic cycling routes, and a wide range of activities including sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling, and boat trips.

Its unmistakable landmark is VINETA, a spectacular floating art installation and event venue anchored in the middle of the lake. Rising 15 metres above the water, it is Germany's tallest floating structure and commemorates the villages that disappeared during the region's mining era. Visitors can reach VINETA by ferry to enjoy guided tours, concerts, exhibitions, and even weddings in this truly one-of-a-kind setting.

The lively marina, waterfront restaurants, and nearby Mining Technology Park make Lake Störmthal an ideal destination for both active holidays and relaxing days by the water. Blending industrial heritage with modern recreation, it perfectly showcases the remarkable transformation Leipzig New Lakeland embodies.

Lake Störmthal

Lake Störmthal facts and figures

Where: Leipzig Region
Surface area: approx. 7,3 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 55 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling (SUP), cycling, dog- friendly beach
Sandy beaches: by LAGOVIDA Resort
Parking: 3 public car parks available around the lake
Lakeside accommodation by the water: LAGOVIDA is a modern lakeside resort, offering stylish hotel rooms, spacious holiday apartments, dune houses, and harbour homes, many with panoramic lake views and direct access to the beach or marina.

Lusatian Lakeland

From former open-cast lignite mines to a sparkling waterscape, the Lusatian Lakeland is one of Germany's most remarkable landscape transformations. Where giant excavators once shaped the land, visitors now find modern marinas, floating holiday homes, and a growing network of scenic lakes.

Water sports enthusiasts can enjoy excellent sailing and windsurfing conditions on Lake Geierswalde, while Lake Bärwalde has become a favourite destination for kite surfers. Those who prefer to stay on land can explore the region along the 190-kilometre Seenland Cycle Route. Whether stand-up paddling, cycling through peaceful heathland landscapes, or simply relaxing by the water, the region offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, nature, and industrial history.

Tip
With the completion of new navigation canals, the lakes of Senftenberg, Geierswalde, Partwitz, Sedlitz, and Großräschen for the first time form a connected navigable waterway. This milestone further establishes the Lusatian Lakeland as one of Germany's most exciting destinations for boating and water sports.

#5 Lake Bärwalde

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views at Saxony's largest lake

Lake Bärwalde, Saxony's largest lake, is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and water lovers. Wide sandy beaches, the maritime atmosphere of Klitten Harbour, and excellent conditions for kitesurfing, sailing, swimming, and other water sports make it one of the region's top summer destinations.

A 21-kilometre circular lakeside trail invites visitors to explore the shoreline by bike, on skates, or on foot while enjoying spectacular views across the water. Those seeking peace can unwind in quiet bays, while adventure seekers will find plenty of opportunities for water sports and beachside activities.

Covering more than 1,300 hectares, Lake Bärwalde offers plenty of space to relax, explore, and enjoy nature. Its vast open landscape and seemingly endless horizon create an atmosphere reminiscent of the seaside, right in the heart of Upper Lusatia.

Lake Bärwalde

Lake Bärwalde facts and figures

Where: Upper Lusatia
Surface area: approx. 13.5 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 58 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, cycling (21 km circular lakeside trail), Klitten Harbour, restaurants and cafés
Sandy beaches: Boxberg Beach, Uhyst Beach, and Klitten Beach
Parking: parking facilities are available at all beach and harbour areas
Lakeside accommodation: stylish floating houses and modern water villas, where up to six guests can enjoy spacious living areas, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, barbecue facilities, and sun terraces with panoramic lake views. Plus, two lakeside campsites with pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, providing the perfect base for relaxing beach holidays and active days on the water.

#6 Lake Geierswalde

Floating holiday homes and a modern marina

Lake Geierswalde combines relaxed beach holidays with a modern marina and unique floating accommodation, creating a true maritime atmosphere in the heart of Lusatia. Families can enjoy well-maintained sandy beaches and gently sloping bathing areas, while active visitors can explore the lake by sailboat, go windsurfing, paddleboarding, or cycle along the scenic lakeside trails.

Restaurants and cafés along the waterfront add to the holiday feeling, making it the perfect place to unwind with a refreshing drink while watching yachts and sailboats glide across the water. One of the lake's highlights is its stylish floating holiday homes, offering a unique opportunity to stay directly on the water.

The modern marina, with its yacht berths and vibrant waterfront, gives Lake Geierswalde a distinctive character where water sports, relaxation, and contemporary lakeside living come together, making it one of the Lusatian Lakeland's most attractive destinations.

Lake Geierswalde

Lake Geierswalde facts and figures

Where: Upper Lusatia
Surface area: approx. 6.2 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 34 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, fishing, stand-up paddling (SUP), cycling, marina with floating holiday homes, restaurants and cafés
Sandy beaches: yes
Parking: parking facilities are available at the beach and marina areas
Lakeside accomodation: Lake Geierswalde's unique floating holiday homes let you wake up surrounded by water. Permanently moored at the marina, these stylish accommodations combine contemporary design with the peaceful atmosphere of life on the lake. Spacious terraces, panoramic views, and high-quality interiors create the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway with family or friends.

#7 Lake Partwitz

Wide sandy beaches and a 19-kilometre circular walk

Wide-open horizons, crystal-clear water, and plenty of space to unwind make Lake Partwitz one of the Lusatian Lakeland's hidden gems. Located between Senftenberg and Hoyerswerda, the lake delights visitors with spacious sandy beaches, gently sloping shores, and excellent conditions for swimming, sailing, and cycling.

The approximately 21-kilometre circular lakeside trail offers breathtaking panoramic views and connects Lake Partwitz with neighbouring lakes created from former open-cast mines. End the day with a spectacular sunset by the beach or relax with a drink at the beach bar in Klein Partwitz. Combining unspoilt nature with a laid-back holiday atmosphere, Lake Partwitz is the perfect destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds.

Lake Partwitz

Lake Partwitz facts and figures

Where: Upper Lusatia
Surface area: approx. 11.7 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 41 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling (SUP), cycling (approx. 21 km circular lakeside trail), picnic and barbecue areas
Sandy beaches: Klein Partwitz Beach
Parking: public parking is available near the beach areas and scenic viewpoints

Don't miss this Upper Lusatian lake near Görlitz

#8 Lake Berzdorf

Mediterranean flair in Upper Lusatia

With its expansive shoreline and striking turquoise waters, Lake Berzdorf brings a touch of the Mediterranean to Upper Lusatia. Wide sandy beaches, including the popular Blue Lagoon, invite visitors to relax in the sun, while excellent wind conditions make the lake a favourite destination for sailing and windsurfing. For anyone on a Görlitz city break: it's only a few minutes from town and perfect for a quick outing.

The well-developed 18-kilometre circular lakeside trail is ideal for cycling, inline skating, and leisurely walks with panoramic water views. Around the marina, restaurants, cafés, and seasonal events create a lively summer atmosphere, making the lake a popular destination for visitors seeking both relaxation and recreation.

Thanks to its crystal-clear turquoise water, spacious beaches, and vibrant waterfront promenade, Lake Berzdorf offers the perfect blend of nature, comfort, and outdoor activities, making it one of the most attractive lakes in the Lusatian region for a summer escape.

Lake Berzdorf

Lake Berzdorf facts and figure

Where: Upper Lusatia
Surface area: approx. 9.6 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 72 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, windsurfing, stand-up paddling (SUP), cycling (circular lakeside trail), beach volleyball, restaurants and cafés
Sandy beaches: yes, including Blue Lagoon and Northeast Beach
Parking: parking facilities are available at the beach and marina areas

Vogtland and
Chemnitz. Zwickau. Region.

From peaceful reservoirs surrounded by forested hills to family-friendly bathing lakes, the Vogtland and Chemnitz. Zwickau. Region. offer a different side of Saxony's lake landscape. Nature takes centre stage, with clear waters, scenic shorelines, and a wide range of outdoor activities just a short distance from vibrant towns and cities.

Pöhl Dam (Talsperre Pöhl) in the Vogtland is one of the region's premier destinations for sailing, kayaking, swimming, and relaxing on the water, while Kriebstein Dam (Talsperre Kriebstein) captivates visitors with its dramatic rocky scenery, wooded valleys, and tranquil atmosphere, ideal for boating, hiking, and discovering one of Saxony's most picturesque river landscapes.

Whether you're looking for active days on the water, scenic cycling and hiking routes, or peaceful moments surrounded by nature, the lakes and reservoirs of southwestern Saxony provide the perfect setting for a relaxing getaway.

#9 Pöhl Dam

Swimming in the “Vogtland Sea”

Pöhl Dam offers everything you need for a perfect summer escape: crystal-clear water, gently sloping shores, and plenty of space to relax. Whether you're swimming, sailing, camping, or tackling the adventure ropes course, there's something for every type of visitor.

Families can enjoy well-maintained beach areas and a variety of leisure activities, while outdoor enthusiasts explore the surrounding landscape on foot, by bike, or by boat. In the evenings, lakeside events and spectacular sunsets create a memorable holiday atmosphere.

Known as the "Vogtland Sea", Pöhl Dam is one of Germany's largest reservoirs and one of the Vogtland's most popular recreational destinations. Its sheltered bays, campsite, and wide range of outdoor activities make it the perfect place to spend a relaxing day, or an entire holiday, in the heart of nature.

Pöhl Dam

Pöhl Dam facts and figures

Where: Vogtland
Surface area: approx. 3.87 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 45 m
Activities: swimming, sailing, diving, boat cruises, hiking, camping, adventure ropes course, seasonal events
Sandy beaches: No conventional sandy beaches – several bathing coves and sunbathing lawns
Parking: parking facilities are available at the recreational areas and bathing sites
Lakeside accommodation: Gunzenberg campsite is one of the reservoir's most scenic lakeside ones. Offering pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes as well as comfortable holiday accommodation, it is an ideal base for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and water sports lovers. With direct access to the lake, swimming areas, hiking and cycling trails, and a wide range of leisure activities, guests can experience the natural beauty of the Vogtland from sunrise to sunset.

#10 Kriebstein Dam

Wildly romantic amidst cliffs and a castle

Surrounded by lush forests, Kriebstein Dam is a peaceful retreat where nature and relaxation go hand in hand. Quiet shores with sunbathing areas, boat rentals, and a lakeside campsite provide the perfect setting for leisurely days by the water.

Visitors can combine outdoor activities with cultural experiences by attending performances at the lakeside stage or exploring nearby Kriebstein Castle, one of Saxony's most impressive medieval castles. Whether you're swimming, paddling, hiking, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery, Kriebstein Dam is a hidden gem for a slower-paced summer getaway.

Kriebstein Dam

Kriebstein Dam facts and figuress

Where: Chemnitz.Zwickau.Region.
Surface area: approx. 1.32 km²
Maximum depth: approx. 35 m
Activities: swimming (designated bathing areas), paddling, boat cruises, hiking, camping, lakeside stage
Sandy beaches: No conventional sandy beaches – mainly sunbathing lawns and natural shorelines
Parking: large parking areas are available near the reservoir, the lakeside stage, and the campsite
Lakeside accommodation: Kriebstein campsite is located directly on the shores of Kriebstein Dam and guests can choose from spacious pitches for tents, caravans, and motorhomes. For a truly memorable experience try Kriebelland where cosy treehouses offer a unique overnight stay high among the treetops.

Camping by Saxony's lakes and rivers

Imagine waking up to the sound of flowing water, spending the day swimming or paddling, and ending the evening with a spectacular sunset over a lake. In Saxony, campsites by the water turn a camping holiday into a true escape into nature.

The Elbe River offers a unique combination of riverside camping and urban discovery, with Dresden’s historic skyline creating an unforgettable backdrop. Around Leipzig and in the Lusatian Lakeland, former mining landscapes have been transformed into extensive lake districts, offering sandy beaches, marinas and a wide range of water sports. The reservoirs of the Vogtland, meanwhile, are surrounded by forests and rolling hills, providing scenic spots for swimming, relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.

From a pitch beside a river to a campsite surrounded by lakes, Saxony offers plenty of opportunities to make the water part of your camping adventure.

Camping by Saxony's lakes and rivers

A perfect day by the lake

How to enjoy Saxony's lakes

Saxony's lakes offer plenty of memorable experiences beyond swimming and water sports, making them ideal for family days out and short breaks alike. Families will love Lake Olbersdorf, where a sandy beach, adventure playground, pump track, boat rentals, and the option for nostalgic rides on the Zittau Narrow-Gauge Railway create a perfect mix of fun, movement, and a little adventure. For an unforgettable overnight stay, there are plenty of unusual options to choose from: stylish tiny houses overlooking Lake Hainer, safari tents by Lake Schladitz, cosy sleeping barrels in Bad Düben, romantic beach sleeping baskets at Lake Störmthal, or even treehouses at Lake Albrechtshain. Each of these places adds a special touch to a lakeside getaway and turns a simple stay into a real experience.

Active families can also combine sightseeing with outdoor fun. A visit to Leipzig Zoo can be followed by a canoe trip from the city harbour to Lake Cospuden, where a long sandy beach offers plenty of space to relax and let children play in the water. Another great option is to explore the impressive Mining Technology Park before cycling on the scenic New Lakeland Cycle Route, which connects several of the lakes outside Leipzig and offers many opportunities to stop for a refreshing swim, a picnic, or a break at one of the waterfront cafés. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a unique place to stay, Saxony's lakes provide countless ways to enjoy time together in nature.

Frequently asked questions about lakeside holidays

On foot or by bike

Hiking and cycling along Saxony's lake and rivers

Seenland Cycle Route
Ride through Europe's largest man-made lake landscape, cycling along 190 kilometres connecting 16 lakes in the Lusatian Lakeland. Pass sandy beaches, modern marinas and spectacular viewpoints while discovering one of Europe's most remarkable landscape transformations.
Leipzig's New Lakeland Cycle Route
Nine lakes. One unforgettable cycling adventure. The New Lakeland Cycle Route takes you through the stunning Leipzig New Lakeland, connecting nine crystal-clear lakes. Stop for a refreshing swim, stroll along the promenade at Lake Hainer or enjoy cafés and marinas before continuing your ride.

Radfahrer am Partwitzer See, Schwimmende Ferienhäuser — © Tourismusverband-Lausitzer-Seenland / Nada Quenzel

Elbe Cycle Route
Follow one of Europe's most beautiful river cycling routes and tide alongside the Elbe River through vineyards, historic towns and the striking rock formations of Saxon Switzerland. From Dresden to Bad Schandau, spectacular river views accompany every kilometre.
Mulde Cycle Route
Discover idyllic riverside landscapes, following the Mulde River through peaceful forests, charming villages and historic towns. This varied route combines tranquil nature with Saxony's cultural heritage and offers plenty of opportunities to stop by the water.
Painters' Way – hiking along the Elbe
Hike through Saxony's most iconic waterside landscape, followin the famous Painters' Way through Saxon Switzerland, where dramatic sandstone cliffs rise above the Elbe Riveer. Panoramic viewpoints, deep gorges and unforgettable river scenery make this one of Germany's most spectacular hiking trails.

Water sports in Saxony

Long sandy beaches, sunsets against a harbour backdrop and plenty of water sports – Saxony offers you an astonishing amount of space by and on the water. With Leipzig New Lakeland and the Lusatian Lakeland in particular, modern waterside landscapes have emerged in recent years, inviting you to explore.

Instead of old opencast mines, you’ll now find clear lakes, well-developed harbours and wide beaches. Here you can get active or simply enjoy the day on the shore – hassle-free, close by and surrounded by nature.

Popular water activities in Saxony

Paddling: paddle your way through Leipzig's extensive network of canals, or explore the unspoilt branches of the Spree River in eastern Saxony
Sailing: make the most of the favourable winds on large bodies of water such as Lake Cospuden, Lake Berzdorf or Lake Bärwalde, and moor at modern marinas
SUP (stand-up paddleboarding): hire a board from one of the many rental points and explore the tranquil shores of Kriebstein Dam or Malter Dam
Canoeing and kayaking: set off on a multi-day trip along the Elbe or Mulde, or glide leisurely along Leipzig’s waterways
Water skiing and wakeboarding: put your skills to the test on the cable lifts at Lake Kulkwitz or Lake Halbendorf – equipment is usually available on site
Diving: explore Lake Kulkwitz – one of Europe’s most significant diving spots, right on the outskirts of Leipzig

Water sports in Saxony

More inspiration for active holidaymakers