Bathing in the Harz
Bathing lakes are usually called bathing ponds in the Upper Harz - there are many of them here
What could be nicer on a hot summer's day than jumping into a bathing lake or pond, swimming a few lengths and refreshing yourself? There are picturesque bathing lakes, ponds and outdoor pools in many places in the Upper Harz, many of which have showers, toilets and a kiosk or restaurant.
You can even bathe in a World Heritage Site in the Harz Mountains. In 2010, the Unesco World Heritage Committee designated the so-called Upper Harz Water Management a globally unique water management system consisting of ponds, ditches and lakes, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bathing and swimming is permitted in some of the lakes and ponds.
It is easy to explore on foot via the “Buntenbocker Teiche” water trail. As a former mining pond, the Pixhaier Teich is now part of the active section of the “Oberharzer Wasserregal” cultural monument. The Prahljust campsite stretches along the eastern bank. As well as a small kiosk, there are also catering facilities here.
- Admission & parking: Prahljust campsite (€3.00 per person, including use of toilets and showers, the playground and the bathing area) – as of April 2025
- Address: An den langen Brüchen 4, Clausthal-Zellerfeld (approx. 200 m from the pond)
A medium-sized swimming pond with a sunbathing area in beautiful surroundings near Clausthal-Zellerfeld and Buntenbock, surrounded by woodland on three sides. A destination on the ‘Buntenbocker Teiche’ waterside walking trail.
- Address: Mittelweg car park, approx. 800 m from the centre of Buntenbock
Seven kilometres from Sankt Andreasberg, a gem in the picturesque Upper Harz landscape and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘Upper Harz Water Management System’. The pond is ideal for long walks. The car park is situated on the B 242 opposite the lake on the other side of the road, from where a 4-kilometre circular walking trail begins and leads along the dam wall and the lakeshore. In summer, the cool, dark water attracts swimmers. However, caution is advised, as the cold undercurrents pose a real danger. You should therefore stick to the designated swimming areas on the eastern and western shores.
The Oberharz recreational lake is ideal for sailors, windsurfers and canoeists with their own equipment, as well as for experienced swimmers. Fishing is permitted. You can obtain a fishing licence from the Oberharz tourist information centres or at the campsite situated directly by the reservoir. The tarmac forest road around the reservoir offers a wonderful route for skaters and cyclists. Refreshments are available at the restaurants and cafés situated directly by the lake. Designated free car parks are located along the B498 and the L517.
During the bathing season from 15 May to 15 September, dogs are not permitted to swim anywhere in the Okerteich. Dogs brought to the lake may only remain in the area of the dam crest during the bathing season and must always be kept on a lead on the grounds of the Okerteich.
A family-friendly recreational lake on the outskirts of Clausthal-Zellerfeld on the L 517 towards Schulenberg, perfect for swimming, boating and relaxing.
- Address: On the outskirts of Clausthal-Zellerfeld on the L517 towards Schulenberg, with a large car park (towards Festenburg), no more than 100 metres from the pond.
- A swimming pool with a diving board and a non-swimmer’s area featuring a children’s paddling pool, a sunbathing area, a sandpit, a kiosk, chlorinated water, changing rooms and toilets are available for your use.
- Not open during the 2026 summer season
- The pool remains closed in bad weather.
Situated on the outskirts of Clausthal, this is a popular recreational pond and forest lake bathing area. A natural swimming pool with a designated non-swimmers’ area, sunbathing areas, a playground, a kiosk and free entry.
- Address: Am Waldseebad, 38678 Clausthal-Zellerfeld, 100 m from the pond
The Okerteich Forest Swimming Pool is now open to the public again at all times.
The Okerteich Forest Swimming Pool in Altenau is a natural swimming pool situated right in the forest. Suitable for both swimmers and non-swimmers, it features a designated non-swimmer area, a spacious sunbathing lawn, outdoor showers, toilets and changing rooms, as well as a children’s playground with a sandpit. A small restaurant serves food and drinks.
- Admission: Free (as of April 2025)
- Address: Kleine Oker 43, 38707 Altenau
Situated just outside Hahnenklee on the L516, in a beautiful setting and easily accessible by car. On its north-western shore is a popular forest lake resort with a large sunbathing lawn, boat hire and a restaurant. Barbecue hut available on request. The lido is open daily during the season, weather permitting.
Opening hours:
- Pedal boat, rowing boat and stand-up paddle board hire
- Free entry to the bathing area
- Swimming area open daily from 10 am to 6 pm (weather permitting)
Situated in a wooded area near Hahnenklee-Bockswiese. On its south-eastern shore is a campsite with a restaurant, as well as the Hotel Kreuzeck. Here, you can enjoy the summer by and in the water at any time.
- Address: Car park 200 metres away at the Kreuzeck.
Crystal sauna spa "Heißer Brocken" in Altenau
The "Heißer Brocken" sauna spa has a wonderfully cosy ambience. You will find it on the Glockenberg in beautiful Altenau. From here you have a wonderful view from the 500 metre high mountain.
Clausthal-Zellerfeld leisure pool
The Clausthal-Zellerfeld leisure pool has been a firm favourite in the Oberharz region for many years. The charming indoor pool combines sporty exercise with relaxing wellness moments and a family-friendly atmosphere.
