Bostalsee
Saarland
Bostalsee is a man-made reservoir located in the municipality of Nohfelden in northern Saarland, Germany. Created in 1979, it covers an area of 120 hectares with a maximum depth of 18 meters and a volume of 8 million cubic meters. The lake was developed as a major tourist project to enhance the recreational infrastructure and ecological conditions of the St. Wendel district. Surrounded by villages such as Bosen, Eckelhausen, Gonnesweiler, and Neunkirchen/Nahe, it offers a variety of leisure activities including sailing, fishing, windsurfing, swimming at its beach, and hiking or cycling along its 6.8 km circular trail. The southwestern portion of the lake is designated as a nature reserve, protecting local flora and fauna. Since 2013, small-scale hydropower generated by the dam is used to illuminate the walking path in winter. Nearby, a large holiday park operated by Center Parcs provides accommodation and tropical indoor swimming facilities, making Bostalsee a year-round destination. Motorboats are generally prohibited to preserve the tranquil environment. The lake's dam is 500 meters long and is classified as a reservoir managed under strict safety regulations. Bostalsee's blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and ecological significance makes it a unique attraction in the Saar-Hunsrück Nature Park region.
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Tip: The best time to visit Bostalsee is during the warmer months when outdoor activities like sailing, windsurfing, and swimming are available. For hiking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and scenic views. It is recommended to purchase tickets or book accommodations at the nearby Center Parcs holiday park in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Visitors should note that motorboats are not allowed on the lake, ensuring a peaceful environment. The circular walking trail around the lake is well-lit in winter, thanks to hydropower from the dam, making off-season visits possible. Discounts may be available for families, groups, or longer stays at the holiday park.
Zajímavosti
- •Bostalsee is the largest artificial recreational lake in southwest Germany.
- •The dam is 500 meters long and classifies Bostalsee technically as a reservoir.
- •Since 2013, hydropower from the dam powers lighting for the circular walking trail in winter.
- •The southwestern part of the lake is a protected nature reserve.
- •The lake is the endpoint of the 'Road of Sculptures' starting in St. Wendel.
- •A large holiday park with 500 holiday homes and a tropical indoor swimming pool opened in 2013 nearby.
Historie
Bostalsee was initiated in the early 1970s by Werner Zeyer, then head of the St.
Wendel county council and later Saarland's minister president, aiming to boost tourism and improve ecological conditions.
The reservoir was completed and filled in 1979, creating the largest artificial recreational lake in southwest Germany.
Over time, the lake area has undergone maintenance, including dam repairs between 2007 and 2009.
Since 2013, its hydropower has been harnessed to light the lakeside walking path during winter months.
The southwestern part of the lake has been designated as a nature reserve to protect local wildlife.
The development of a large holiday park by Center Parcs in 2013 further advanced the site's role as a major regional tourist destination.
Průvodce po místě
Circular Walking Trail
A 6.8 km path encircling the lake, offering scenic views, access to sculptures such as Leo Kornbrust's 'Liebesthron' and Shlomo Selinger's 'Requiem für die Juden', and opportunities for birdwatching in the nature reserve area.
Bostalsee Dam1979
A 500-meter-long dam that created the reservoir, serving both flood protection and recreational purposes. It also supports small-scale hydropower generation.
Center Parcs Holiday Park2013
A large holiday resort on the lake's shore, featuring 500 holiday homes across six villages and a tropical indoor swimming pool, offering year-round leisure and accommodation options.
