hike around the Springsee

The hike around Springsee is one of the most idyllic short loops in the Dahme-Heideseen Nature Park. The approximately four-kilometer trail follows the shoreline almost continuously, offering stunning views of the clear water and tranquil forest landscape. Parts of the route coincide with the popular 66 Lakes Trail, making this a particularly varied and relaxing hike.

Springsee, formerly also called "Grundsee," is a natural lake of approximately 58 hectares located in the municipality of Storkow (Mark) in the Oder-Spree district. As a mesotrophic, calcareous, and stratified lake, it is considered one of the region's ecologically valuable bodies of water. Completely surrounded by forest, the lake exudes a special tranquility. Especially on windless days, the tall trees are reflected on the water's surface, lending the landscape an almost fairytale-like atmosphere.

The many small details along the path are particularly charming. Opposite the campsite is the so-called "Love Tree." Also worth seeing is the small bridge over the romantic lily-covered stream, which connects Springsee with the Glubigseen chain of lakes. Decades-old thuja trees and the "Great" and "Little Springsee Springs," both protected as natural monuments, lend the hike an additional special character.

Springsee is also a popular swimming lake. Several small sandy bathing areas line the shore, while the official bathing area is located on the grounds of the nature campsite at Springsee. The water quality is regularly monitored and offers excellent conditions for swimming and relaxation, especially during the summer months. The absence of motorboats gives the lake a pleasantly tranquil and natural feel.

A short section of the hike runs along a military restricted area on the west bank. However, this shouldn't deter you: the hiking trail is perfectly safe and easily walkable.

Springsee also holds special historical significance. On its eastern shore, a listed memorial stone commemorates the resistance fighters Erich and Charlotte Garske. Erected in 1944, this monument is one of the earliest of its kind in Brandenburg.

start / finish: Naturcampingplatz Springsee
length / duration: 4 kilometers / about 1 hour
Arrival: Arriving by car is recommended. Hikers with cars can park on the campsite grounds for €4 per day. If they stay longer than just the loop around the lake, for example for swimming, there is a day entrance fee of €2,50.
Logo / Route marker:
Road condition / route development: Mostly natural, easy-to-walk paths along the shore.