Kretzschau offers several ways to enjoy a stay by the water, discover wine and go cycling. Lake Kretzschau, the White Elster wine landscape, and regional and long-distance cycle routes provide different options for planning your trip. The lake also has a small campsite and a youth hostel as accommodation options.
Lake Kretzschau: origins and recreation
Lake Kretzschau was formed by groundwater inflow in the former Groitzschen II open-cast mine. It covers 25 hectares and reaches a depth of around 45 metres at its deepest point. The area and approximate depth describe different measurements of the lake. A stream and a groundwater spring feed the lake; its origins in the former mine also give it a distinctive landscape history.
Swimming and ball games are possible at the lake. Boat and bicycle rentals support activities on the water and around the lake. Before you travel, check seasonal conditions for recreational activities and the availability of rentals. The beach terrace serves refreshments and home-style cooking; ask locally about the current food and drink options.
Wine landscape and culture
You can explore the community’s White Elster wine landscape on foot or by bicycle. Wine tastings and purchases are available at the Salsitz Vinothek. Exploring the landscape and sampling wine offer different ways to discover the area’s wines; check the current options at the Vinothek before making a visit part of your plans.
In Grana, within Kretzschau, the vineyards of the Hubertus Triebe winery are listed in the German vineyard register under the name “Salsitzer Englischer Garten.” The church in Hollsteitz is another cultural highlight: its pulpit altar is decorated with life-size figures. A pulpit altar combines the pulpit and altar in a single design; in Hollsteitz, the life-size figures are part of this distinctive feature.
Cycle routes and getting here
The Zuckerbahn cycle path connects Kretzschau to the regional cycling network. There is also a connection to the long-distance Elster Cycle Route via Zeitz. These two cycle routes differ in scale: one is part of the regional network, while the other offers a long-distance connection via Zeitz. Check route conditions and signage before setting off.
Kretzschau is connected to the surrounding area by the B 180; the nearest rail connection is in Zeitz. These are different reference points for planning your journey. Check current train connections and timetables, as well as road conditions and possible detours, before finalising your travel plans.
Staying by the lake
A small campsite at Lake Kretzschau accepts long-term and day campers by reservation. Check the current booking conditions before planning to stay there. A youth hostel with 13 bungalows is located right beside the lake and provides accommodation for larger groups. Check current availability here, too.
Two different criteria can help you narrow down your choices: advance reservations are important for camping, while the youth hostel specifically offers accommodation for larger groups. Consider which type of accommodation suits your travel group and check the relevant booking conditions in good time.
Discover more destinations: Hohenmölsen, Schönburg, Weißenfels, Balgstädt, Elsteraue, Nebra, Meineweh, Gutenborn
Return to the overarching travel guide: Burgenlandkreis.
