Welcome
International Day of Lakes 2025
Bodensee © Colourbox
Germany is home to more than 12,000 lakes, ranging from the Alpine Lake Constance (Bodensee) in the south to the Müritz in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, the largest lake entirely within German territory.
Many of them were formed during the last Ice Age around 12,000 years ago, shaping today’s landscapes.
Beyond their beauty, lakes connect regions and people: the Müritz-Havel Waterway, for example, links several lakes and rivers, creating a network for boating and nature lovers alike. Whether for swimming, sailing, fishing, or simply enjoying the view, Germany’s lakes are places where nature and culture meet.
Protecting these waters is a national priority. The German government enforces strict water quality standards under the EU Water Framework Directive, restores shorelines and wetlands, and funds projects to reduce agricultural runoff and nutrient pollution. Many lakes are also part of protected nature reserves, ensuring that biodiversity – from fish to migratory birds – can thrive.
