Aartal See

Germany Lake 1 - Excellent

Aartal See is a 58.2-hectare reservoir located 22 km northwest of Giessen and 17 km east of Dillenburg in the hilly terrain between the Dill and Lahn rivers. The lake was created as a flood protection measure and features a maximum depth of 9.2 m and average depth of 3.7 m. The bathing area receives 200–300 visitors daily during the season and is used for swimming, fishing, diving, sailing, and windsurfing.

Reviews

No reviews yet.

Write a review

Photos

Upload a photo

Water

Reservoir (Talsperre). Water surface area: 58.2 hectares. Maximum depth: 9.2 m. Average depth: 3.7 m. Main inflows: Aar River, Wilsbach, Weidbach, and Meerbach.

Location

Located on the administrative territory of Bischoffen and Hohenahr along the B255 road. The bathing access is at the middle section of the northern shore, west of Niederweidbach. Parking is available at the facility.

Facilities

Toilets, showers, and a kiosk. An 80 m long and 10 m wide sand beach is available. No designated non-swimmer zone.

Season

27 April 2026 to 31 August 2026

Water Quality

Classified as excellent water quality for the years 2021–2025. Monitoring shows enterococci and Escherichia coli levels generally within acceptable ranges. Nutrient loading is low. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) risk is classified as low based on trophic status (mesotrophic 2), though increased cyanobacteria development has been observed towards the end of the bathing season in recent years. Potential pollution sources include wastewater treatment systems and combined/stormwater discharges. A large waterfowl population has been observed, which may contribute to hygienic contamination.

Risks

Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) may develop towards the end of the bathing season, potentially causing allergic reactions and skin irritation. Large waterfowl populations present. Potential hygienic contamination from wastewater and stormwater discharges. Aquatic plants (macrophytes) and phytoplankton may occasionally occur.