Blue Oases of Sauerland: 4 Best Swimming Lakes Near Brilon (+ A Hidden Spot)
In the Sauerland region of Germany, near the town of Brilon, there are several beautiful lakes and reservoirs nestled in nature where you can enjoy outdoor swimming and water activities. Here are the most highly recommended spots:
1. Diemelsee — The Closest Recommended Lake
Located just a 15 to 20-minute drive (approx. 10–15 km) from Brilon, this is a local favorite.
Features: Well-maintained, free public beach areas (Strandbad) and sunbathing lawns are available around the lake, notably in Heringhausen.
Activities: In addition to swimming, you can rent stand-up paddleboards (SUP), canoes, and electric boats. There are also safe shallow zones for children and a dedicated dog beach (Hundestrand) where your four-legged friends can swim freely.
2. Hillebachsee
This lake is located in Niedersfeld, about a 20 to 25-minute drive south of Brilon (towards Winterberg).
Features: While small and cozy, the lake boasts crystal-clear water and a tranquil atmosphere.
Activities: Perfect for sunbathing on the grass and swimming. A major highlight here is the water ski and wakeboard facility (Wasserski-Anlage), making it a hotspot for action-sports enthusiasts.
3. Hennetalsperre (Hennesee)
A massive reservoir near Meschede, located about a 25 to 30-minute drive west of Brilon.
Features: It features Berghauser Badebucht, a beautifully designed recreation area with an artificial sandy beach, spacious lawns, and swimming zones.
Activities: Even if you don't fancy a swim, the walking trails and cycling paths along the lakeshore are spectacular. You can also take a scenic boat cruise on the lake.
4. Messinghausener See (See im Berg) — A Scuba Diving Hotspot
Formed in a former quarry within the Brilon municipal area (near Messinghausen), this lake is famous for its stunning setting.
Features: Often called the "Lake in the Mountain," it is surrounded by steep, dramatic cliffs. The water is incredibly transparent with a striking deep-blue tint.
Please Note: This is not a typical public swimming lake, but a privately operated, paid scuba diving base. General recreational swimming may be restricted, making it best suited for divers or those wanting to admire the unique scenery.
[Bonus Recommendation] Not a lake, but a gem right next to Brilon:
Waldfreibad Gudenhagen (Gudenhagen Forest Outdoor Pool): If driving out to a lake feels like too much hassle, this outdoor pool just south of Brilon is highly recommended. Boasting a massive water surface area of 6,500 m², it is one of the largest nature-integrated outdoor pools in Europe. It offers a safe environment while giving you the distinct feeling of swimming in a lake surrounded by lush forests.
⚠️ Note: Another large lake nearby, the Aabachtalsperre, is a designated drinking water protection zone (Trinkwasserschutzgebiet). Swimming and all types of water sports are strictly forbidden here, so please keep this in mind when planning your trip!