The Schönheiderhammer Pre-dam is a small reservoir on the Zwickauer Mulde river that pre-treats water before it flows into the Eibenstock Dam, the largest reservoir in Saxony. It's a peaceful spot for anyone wanting quiet water scenery in the Ore Mountains, away from the crowds of the main reservoir.

The surrounding landscape features the gentle, forested hills typical of the Ore Mountains, and the dam crest offers a nice view over the water framed by greenery. In summer the area invites walking and cycling, in autumn the forests turn colorful, and in winter the route can be quiet and snow-covered. The atmosphere is calm and low-key — better suited to a contemplative stroll than an action-packed day out.

How to get there

• Schönheiderhammer — dam crest open to pedestrians and cyclists since 2006, easy route
• The long-distance Görlitz-Greiz trail also crosses the dam crest

Practical information

• Swimming and boating are prohibited to protect the drinking water supply
• A water education trail runs from Schönheiderhammer to the Eibenstock Dam, also crossing the pre-dam crest
• A hiking map of the area can be downloaded from the Saxon dam authority's website

Fun fact: the dam has been in operation since 1980 and forms a key part of the multi-barrier system protecting drinking water quality for the Chemnitz and Zwickau region.