Olbersdorfer See is the largest lake near Zittau, and its story is anything but ordinary — this glassy blue expanse now fills what used to be an open-pit lignite mine. Today it's the go-to spot in the region for swimming, watersports and simply relaxing by the water.

Set in the gently rolling landscape at the foot of the Zittau Mountains, the lake has a surprisingly scenic, almost Mediterranean feel on sunny summer days, with sandy beaches and views stretching toward the hills. In summer it buzzes with swimmers, beach volleyball players, surfers and triathletes, while in the quieter months it turns into a peaceful place for a lakeside stroll. The water reaches depths of up to 40 metres, giving it that striking deep-blue colour that catches most first-time visitors off guard.

How to get there

• Olbersdorf/Zittau, lakeside car park — 4.5 km loop trail around the lake, approx. 1-1.5 hours, easy
• Longer 6 km loop — for those wanting to explore more of the shoreline, easy

Practical information

• Main swimming area on the north beach — best conditions and easy access
• South beach only reachable on foot via the path network
• The lake has a small island that serves as a bird refuge
• Boat and equipment rentals, a fish restaurant, campsite and hotels available in season

Fun fact: where the lake now spreads out, a historic church once stood — it was demolished by explosion in 1986 to make way for the expanding mine. A plaque and the iron cross from its tower still mark the spot today, visible from the Kirchbergaussicht viewpoint.