Großräschener See: Tourist rush is missing - what is missing?

Großräschener See: Tourist rush is missing - what is missing?

Großräschener See, Deutschland - The Großräschener See, one of the ten lakes in the Lausitzer Seenland, has been officially released for boats and for swimming for about two weeks. The official approval took place on June 20, 2025 and marked an important step for the region's tourist potential. This decision focused on a lake, the flooding of which began in 2007 and was only completed in 2024. With an area of ​​820 hectares and a maximum depth of 55 meters, the lake offers a variety of water options and leisure activities.

Despite the start of the holiday in Saxony, the rush to the new lake has so far been evident. The general manager of the IHK Cottbus emphasizes the decisive role of the connections between the various lakes in the Lusatian Seenland in order to increase the tourist attractiveness. At the moment, however, some channels are still under development, which limits tourist use. It should be emphasized that only exemptions for certain water sports clubs were granted before the approval.

tourist developments and challenges

The catering businesses on Lake Großräschen, such as the “Haus Vier” restaurant, have so far reported of minor effects on their business. Tourism offers in the region have hardly changed since opening, with a small passenger ship offering some tours. A lack of ships and specialists currently inhibits tourist development.

In order to effectively integrate the Großräschener See into the Lausitzer Seenland, it is necessary to open further waterways. The Lake Association includes, among other things, the Senftenberger, Sedlitzer, Partwitzer and Geierswalder See. The Senftenberger See is already connected to the Geierswalder See, and this in turn with the Partwitzer See over the Barbara Canal. The opening of three other waterways, including the Ilsekanal, is planned for the coming year.

infrastructure and leisure activities on the Großräschener See

The water tourist use on Lake Großräschen is allowed from April to October, with certain blocking areas exist. The bathing area on the designated urban beach is accessible to locals and visitors, but unpleasant. The planned port infrastructure will offer space for around 130 boat bailiffs as well as a harbor promenade and various services for water sports enthusiasts in the future.

Tourist development began with the IBA terraces, which have already been awarded the Brandenburg architecture award, and the construction of a sea hotel. The foot and cycle paths through the ship tunnel can already be used, which makes access to the lake easier. Various offers are available in the region for overnight guests, and information on accommodations and camping are available. However, there is a clear need for new hotels and tourist offers to promote tourism on Lake Großräschen.