The Rauschenbach Dam is one of those reservoirs where quiet water meets the forested hills of the Ore Mountains. Located in the upper Flöha valley near the Czech border, it serves as a drinking water reservoir but also makes for a peaceful and scenic outing.
The surrounding landscape is typical of the Erzgebirge — gently rolling, forest-covered hills mirrored in the calm water, especially beautiful in autumn and early summer. In winter the area turns quiet and snow-covered, perfect for a contemplative walk. A striking feature is the arched bridge carrying the road across the reservoir, offering one of the most photographed views in the region.
How to get thereInterestingly, the bridge crossing the reservoir was the first major prestressed concrete bridge built in East Germany, and during the 2002 flood the emptied reservoir absorbed the flood waters, sparing nearby towns from major damage.