Groß Düben: Lakes, Cycling and Local History

For a trip to Groß Düben, consider swimming and fishing, cycling, and local history. Waldsee is a swimming and fishing pond in the Lusatian Lake District; Halbendorfer See is associated with the district of Halbendorf. The Frog Cycle Route runs through Halbendorf, while parts of the recreation area at Halbendorfer See are protected and subject to special access rules. Their origins, dimensions and seasonal conditions give you specific starting points for planning your trip.

Waldsee and Halbendorfer See

Waldsee was formed from the former “Sophie” lignite mine. It is about 380 metres long, 160 metres wide and 13 to 15 metres deep. As a swimming and fishing pond, it is part of the Lusatian Lake District.

Halbendorfer See originated as a lignite mine in the 1960s; the post-mining landscape was subsequently reclaimed. The lake covers about 120 hectares and reaches a depth of up to 27 metres.

The figures describe different measures: for Waldsee, length and width are given alongside a depth range; for Halbendorfer See, the area is given alongside a maximum depth. This is more useful when comparing the lakes than directly equating the area figure with Waldsee’s length measurements.

Landscape and cycling

Part of the Halbendorfer See recreation area lies within a landscape conservation area. Certain sections of the lake and shore are reserved for nature conservation and can be accessed only on foot or by bicycle. This restriction applies to those sections, not to the lake as a whole. Check locally for any route restrictions when planning your trip.

The international Frog Cycle Route passes through Halbendorf and by landscapes rich in flora and fauna, leading to attractions in the surrounding area. The route combines scenic impressions with destinations nearby. Check route conditions and signage locally, as they may change.

Water and recreation

Activities associated with Halbendorfer See include paddling, rowing, canoeing, electric and pedal boating, water skiing, wakeboarding and AquaPark activities. Sailing, surfing and diving are also associated with the lake. Water activities and usage rights are seasonal; before travelling, check current operating conditions and the options available at the time.

The recreational facilities at Waldsee include a volleyball court, a bowling alley, an outdoor table tennis table and a newly renovated children’s playground. These facilities complement its use as a swimming and fishing pond. As the facilities may change, it is advisable to check before you arrive if you have a particular facility in mind.

Local history and accommodation

Halbendorf was first documented in 1597 under its old Sorbian name, Breslug; its current Sorbian name is Brezowka. As a district of Groß Düben, Halbendorf is also associated with the annual Neptunfest and the Sorbian Easter Egg Festival. If a festival is influencing your travel dates, check the current date in advance.

For accommodation at Waldsee, six flat-roofed bungalows and a villa offer holiday accommodation. Check availability before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Boxberg/Oberlausitz, Rietschen, Großschweidnitz, Königshain, Beiersdorf, Quitzdorf am See, Kodersdorf, Schönau-Berzdorf Auf Dem Eigen

Return to the main travel overview: Görlitz.