From all viewpoints around Lake Baldeney, the Korte Cliff is considered by many to be the most beautiful. It was named for Rudolf Korte, who was director of horticulture in Essen from 1921 to 1938.

Lake Baldeney and Baldeney Trail

In 1931, the lake was dammed as a reservoir for the purification of Ruhr water. Today, the lake in the south of Essen is one of the top destinations among recreation areas—for water and land activities—in the Ruhr Metropolis.

Lake Baldeney is the largest of six Ruhr reservoirs. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

Take a tour along the Baldeney Trail. Well-marked hiking trails ensure a unique experience of nature. – © Jochen Tack / City of Essen

The ships of the "Weiße Flotte Baldeney" are in permanent service from April to October. The fleet's five motorboats regularly depart from Scheppen for scheduled and special trips. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

Recreational sailors pursue their sporting passion on Lake Baldeney. On the northern lakeshore, the winding tower of the former Carl Funke colliery is visible. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

The weir dams up the Ruhr for about eight kilometres to form Lake Baldeney. A lock connects the different water level and a hydroelectric power plant generates electricity. The weir also serves as a pedestrian bridge. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

Lake Baldeney is the largest of six Ruhr reservoirs. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

With its well-developed lakeside paths, the Lake Baldeney reservoir is a paradise for cyclists, inline skaters, joggers and strollers. On the approximate 14.7-kilometre tour around the water, there is something for everyone.

With its marked hiking trails, the "Baldeney Trail" (a 27-kilometre, new, circular footpath around the lake) provides a unique nature experience. The landscape along the trail is varied. Steep forests, narrow paths, and magnificent views prevail on the northern side of the lake. Expansive fields and traces of mining history characterise the southern side. From time to time the trail passes houses and small estates. Those who do not want to set out on their own and prefer the company of others, Simply Out Tours offers guided hikes.

The landscape along the trail is varied. Steep forests, narrow paths, and magnificent views prevail on the northern side of the lake. Expansive fields and traces of mining history characterise the southern side. - © Jochen Tack / City of Essen

The scenic beauty of the lake can be enjoyed particularly well from the water. So it's no surprise that canoeists, yachtsmen, and rowers are out on the lake all year. Annually, elite German sailors meet here for the "Essener Woche," Germany's largest inland lake regatta.

Sailing regattas on Lake Baldeney are held every year. In addition, there is a regatta course for rowers and canoeists with a small spectator stand. – © Editing Department / City of Essen

Anyone who is not as sporty, or just prefers something more comfortable, can view the wooded banks of the lake and the Ruhr from the ships of the "Weiße Flotte." They take off from April to October for a trip around Essen's local waters or a long-distance cruise on the Ruhr to the neighbouring town of Mülheim. A stopover in Essen-Kettwig can be included on request. As well, there are numerous restaurants and beer gardens. And the sight of the sandy Baldeney Beach—with palm trees, surf school, and cocktail bar—quickly get people in a holiday mood.

Downloads

Hiking Map Baldeney Lake

Baldeney Trail 2017

Visit