The dam serves as part of a complex water management system supplying nearly 400,000 residents in southern Thuringia.
It is the second-highest rock-fill dam in Germany, designed specifically for drinking water supply rather than power generation.
The reservoir capacity is approximately 25 million cubic meters of water.
Because it is a protected drinking water zone, all water-based activities like swimming, boating, and fishing are strictly prohibited.
The reservoir is fed primarily by the Schleuse river, which originates in the nearby high-altitude terrain of the Thuringian Forest.
Talsperre Schönbrunn is a drinking water reservoir located in the Thuringian Forest, constructed between 1967 and 1977. The dam wall is a rock-fill structure reaching a height of 65 meters and spanning 230 meters in length. It impounds the Schleuse river, creating a reservoir that covers approximately 115 hectares when full. The site serves as a primary source of high-quality drinking water for the surrounding region and is strictly protected. A circular trail surrounding the reservoir spans approximately 12 kilometers and is open to hikers and cyclists. The surrounding landscape consists of dense coniferous forests characteristic of the Rennsteig region.
The crest of the dam wall provides the most expansive panoramic view of the reservoir and surrounding forest.
Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the circular path includes elevation changes and uneven terrain.
Bring your own supplies, as there are limited commercial facilities directly adjacent to the water due to environmental protection laws.
Ensure your mobile device has offline maps, as cell signal can be intermittent in the valley.
Attempting to enter the water or off-trail areas, which is enforced by local authorities to maintain water purity.
Stay on marked paths; swimming and water access are strictly prohibited due to drinking water protection status.
