Nature and water at your own pace
A five-kilometre, easy nature trail begins at Oberholz station in Großpösna. Information boards focus on local wildlife and plant life. Oberholz covers more than 600 hectares and is considered a refuge for plants and animals. The outing offers two different perspectives: the trail takes you through nature with a specific theme, while Oberholz itself is the focus as a large-scale habitat. If you want to combine exercise with learning, you’ll find information about flora and fauna along the way.
Lake Störmthal covers 721 hectares and was created when the southeastern part of the former Espenhain lignite mine was flooded. On the lake, VINETA symbolises the lost church of Magdeborn and the villages that had to make way for the mine. The history of mining is thus also present through a cultural memorial.
Lake Störmthal: swimming, ferry and circular route
There are four designated swimming areas at Lake Störmthal, where swimming is permitted. Check local swimming information before your visit. A ferry to VINETA departs from the Vineta Bistro. As service depends on the timetable and weather, it’s worth checking the times in advance.
A 23-kilometre, fully paved circular route runs around the lake and is suitable for walking, cycling and skating. Trail conditions may vary. There are also various options on the water: boat rentals include kayaks, pedal boats, rowing boats and motorboats. Guided canoe tours are also available. Check boat availability and tour times before your trip.
To choose a route, you can compare the two circuits: the easy nature trail at Oberholz station is five kilometres long, while the paved circuit around the lake is 23 kilometres. This gives you the choice between a shorter themed trail and a longer route for walking, cycling or skating. A lock connects Lake Störmthal with neighbouring Lake Markkleeberg, making recreational activities possible on both lakes. Check current conditions and offers before setting out.
Memorial sites and architectural history
The history of Lake Störmthal is also connected with remembrance: VINETA on the lake symbolises the lost church of Magdeborn and the villages that had to make way for the Espenhain lignite mine. Güldengossa Manor offers a different historical perspective. The estate was rebuilt as a Late Baroque manor house in 1720, having already been more than 500 years old. The palace, park and orangery have been restored, and events are held in the ballroom. If you’re planning to attend an event, check the programme before your trip.
Regional context: Leipzig District
The broader regional context is Leipzig District. The Leipzig New Lake District comprises 22 new lakes with a total water surface of 70 km². The district’s cycling network includes two long-distance cycle routes, eleven main regional cycling routes and additional themed routes. For travellers looking beyond a single circuit, this regional context offers further ideas for planning.
Choose accommodation to suit your travel interests
Next, check the location of your specific accommodation in relation to your chosen focus. This lets you tailor your search to your travel interests without committing to just one activity.
Discover more destinations: Narsdorf, Böhlen, Machern, Threna, Zwenkau, Thallwitz, Lossatal, Kohren-Sahlis
For the broader travel overview: Leipzig District.
