Werda – Reservoir, Hiking Trails and Winter Sports

Werda combines nature experiences with trails for hiking and cycling, as well as seasonal winter sports. At the heart of the area is the Werda Reservoir, also known as the Geigenbach Reservoir: it lies in the wooded Vogtland landscape and impounds the Geigenbach stream. When planning your trip, it is therefore worth considering two distinct aspects of the area: its natural surroundings and waterside setting, and the activities that are specific to winter.

Werda Reservoir: Landscape and Drinking Water Protection

The reservoir is used to produce drinking water. It supplies raw water for drinking water production and lies within a drinking water protection area. At the same time, it is a destination for day trips and nature lovers. The reservoir was built from 1904 to 1909 and began operating in 1910.

Important for your plans: swimming, fishing and water sports are not permitted at the reservoir because it serves as a drinking water reservoir. So do not plan any water-based activities there. The landscape and water management shape this area in different ways: the wooded surroundings invite you to enjoy nature, while its use as a reservoir defines the experience by the water.

Hiking Trails and Landscapes in the Vogtland

Felsenweg 3b starts near the sports field in Werda. It follows the reservoir and dam through the Geigenbach Valley, then continues through nearby Vogtland landscapes featuring rock formations and wide-open views. The route thus combines the reservoir surroundings with other scenic landscapes. Other hiking trails lead from Werda towards Schöneck and Grünbach.

The green forests also offer opportunities for walking, cycling and hiking, for example on trips towards the Valley of the Ten Mills. You can choose between a route featuring the reservoir, dam and Geigenbach Valley, and trails heading in other directions. The specific landscape features can help you decide what you would like to focus on during your trip.

Cycling and Winter Sports

Further afield in the Vogtland region, the Oelsnitz–Falkenstein cycling route follows a former railway line. It connects the Göltzschtal Cycle Route with the Elstertal Cycle Route and has few changes in elevation. This provides different points of reference for choosing a regional route than the hiking trails starting in Werda: here, a connection between two cycle routes and a mostly level route; there, destinations and landscape features along the hiking trails.

In winter, Werda offers a ski lift with a downhill run of about 400 metres, particularly suitable for families with children and beginners. There is a ski hut at the top station where you can warm up and get refreshments. In addition, about 10 km of cross-country ski trails are available in winter, alongside the ski lift. Downhill skiing and cross-country skiing thus provide two different options for a winter stay. As winter sports facilities are seasonal, check whether they are available during your planned travel dates before you set off.

Discover more destinations: Kottengrün, Chemnitz, Mittelbach

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