Großer Galgenteich is a scenic reservoir tucked into the Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge) right next to the town of Altenberg in Saxony. Built back in the 16th century to support the local tin mining industry, it now serves as a drinking water supply and flood protection basin — a place where mining history quietly blends into a peaceful natural setting.

Surrounded by forests and the gentle hills typical of the Ore Mountains, the lake has a calm, unhurried atmosphere throughout the year. Summer brings pleasant lakeside walks, autumn dresses the surrounding woods in color, and winter transforms the area into a small paradise for cross-country and downhill skiers alike. The neighboring Kleiner Galgenteich adds to the charm, creating a cozy, intimate water landscape perfect for a relaxed family outing.

How to get there

• Altenberg town center — local trail, approx. 20-30 minutes on foot, easy difficulty
• Parking near the campsite by Großer Galgenteich — direct access, a few minutes' walk, easy difficulty

Practical information

• Rowing boats are no longer available on the lake
• The swimming area is located at the neighboring Kleiner Galgenteich, not at Großer Galgenteich itself
• A campsite and a summer toboggan run are available nearby
• In winter, both downhill and cross-country ski routes are accessible

Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Altenberg mine and the famous Altenberger Pinge — an impressive collapse crater that stands as a striking reminder of centuries of tin mining in the region.