Dutenhofener Badesee

Germany Lake 1 - Excellent

Dutenhofener Badesee is a gravel extraction lake located in the Lahn valley between Giessen and Wetzlar in western Germany. The lake covers 29.4 hectares and was created through sand and gravel extraction during road construction. The surrounding area is designated as a recreation and nature conservation zone, making it a popular destination for summer bathing. The water is normally clear but can become greenish due to algae growth. A sandy beach, measuring 60 metres long and 10 to 15 metres wide, is renewed annually for the swimming season.

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Water

Gravel extraction lake (Baggersee) with a surface area of 29.4 hectares, maximum depth of 11.4 metres, and average depth of 4.04 metres. Temperature stratification is limited due to depth structure, adversely affecting water quality. The lake is subject to regular flooding from the Lahn river, which introduces additional nutrient loading.

Location

The lake is located west of Giessen and north of Dutenhofen, directly between the Lahn river and the B49 expressway connecting Giessen and Wetzlar. Access to the bathing area is via two smaller roads from Dutenhofen crossing railway lines and the expressway. The bathing area entrance is on the southern shore of the lake beside the entrance to the adjacent campsite. Parking information is not specified.

Facilities

Toilets, showers, changing facilities, a kiosk, and a restaurant. A campsite is adjacent to the bathing and beach area.

Season

27 April 2026 to 31 August 2026.

Water Quality

Classified as excellent quality (Ausgezeichnete Qualität) in years 2021–2025 based on monitoring of enterococci and Escherichia coli indicator bacteria. Water temperature ranges between 10 and 26 degrees Celsius during the bathing season. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) mass occurrences have been observed in previous years, classified as medium risk. Observed massenaufkommen of cyanobacteria during the bathing season has been documented. The lake is mesotrophic (classification: mesotroph 2) with low risk of future cyanobacteria mass blooms.

Risks

Potential nutrient enrichment from Lahn river flooding during high water events. Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) development is possible during summer due to nutrient content in the water. Water birds in the adjacent nature and bird protection area may contribute contamination. Cyanobacteria can produce substances harmful to swimmers, including allergic reactions and skin irritations.