Harkortsee

Harkortsee, nestled between the cities of Hagen, Herdecke, and Wetter in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a picturesque reservoir that offers a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities. This serene lake, completed in 1931 by the Ruhrverband as a river purification plant, is one of the six Ruhr reservoirs and is named after Friedrich Harkort, a notable figure in the region's industrial history.

The Lake in Numbers

Harkortsee boasts an impressive 3.1 million cubic meters of storage capacity. The lake begins its journey at the Ruhr Viaduct between Hagen and Herdecke and concludes at a weir below the Ruhr Bridge on the B 226 between Hagen and Wetter, with a dam height of nearly eight meters. To the north, the lake is bordered by the steep slopes of the Ardey Mountains, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape.

The Lake and Its Three Functions

Primarily, Harkortsee was created for the fine purification of Ruhr water, especially since both the Lenne and Volme rivers historically discharged significantly polluted water into the Ruhr. The modernization of the Hagen sewage treatment plant between 2003 and 2005 has significantly improved the water quality, making previously substantial residual pollutants negligible.

The enhancement of water quality in the reservoir is largely due to biological self-cleaning processes. However, the slow flow of water causes the reservoir to silt up, necessitating dredging every few decades. Additionally, Harkortsee functions as a balancing basin for the upstream Hengsteysee and its pumped storage power plant in Herdecke. The water levels of both reservoirs fluctuate daily, but Harkortsee releases water evenly throughout the day, matching the irregular inflow.

From the outset, Harkortsee has also served as a recreational area, offering opportunities for water sports and tranquil relaxation along its shores.

Tourism at the Lake

Harkortsee is surrounded by numerous attractions that draw tourists year-round. On the lake's shore in Wetter lies the historic Burg Wetter, a castle with roots in the Middle Ages. Across the lake in Hagen, visitors can explore Wasserschloss Werdringen, a water castle that houses a renowned museum of prehistory and early history.

On the Herdecke side of the lake, the Cuno power plant stands as a testament to the region's industrial heritage. During the warmer months, the passenger ship Friedrich Harkort cruises the lake, offering scenic tours. For those looking to get closer to the water, there are boat rental services and a mini-golf course. Additionally, the Avalonia bouldering area provides a unique outdoor climbing experience.

Protected Areas

Given its ecological significance, both the lake's surface and its surrounding areas are protected by various conservation measures. These protections ensure the preservation of the region's diverse flora and fauna.

Nature Reserves

The Harkortsee Former Yacht Harbor Nature Reserve and the Kaisbergaue Nature Reserve are two key protected areas around the lake. These reserves safeguard critical habitats and support a wide range of species.

Landscape Protection Areas

The Harkortsee Landscape Protection Area, along with the Schede/Auf dem Heil/Rostesiepen/Kallenberg/Harkortberg/Harkortsee/Ruhrauen Landscape Protection Area, encompass the lake and its surroundings. These areas are designated to maintain the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the region.

Fauna-Flora-Habitat Area

The FFH Area Felsen am Harkortsee (Rocks at Harkortsee), covering 2.52 hectares, features both natural and human-made rock formations on the southeast-facing slopes north of the lake. This area is protected to preserve the habitat of the splendid thin fern, a species listed in Annex II of the EU Habitats Directive.

Conclusion

Harkortsee is a hidden gem in North Rhine-Westphalia, offering a perfect blend of natural splendor, historical intrigue, and recreational activities. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Harkortsee has something for everyone. Its tranquil waters, scenic landscapes, and rich heritage make it an ideal destination for a day trip or a longer stay. So, pack your bags and set out to explore this enchanting lake and its many wonders!