The lake was created by excavating over 2.5 million cubic meters of earth from the site of a dismantled steel mill.
It is part of a massive structural transition project aimed at transforming Dortmund's industrial south into a service and technology-oriented district.
The water depth varies significantly, reaching up to 4.5 meters in the main basin.
The project includes an integrated drainage system designed to prevent the flooding of the Emscher valley.
Remnants of the historic Hörder Burg (Hörde Castle) are preserved adjacent to the development, dating back to the 12th century.
A specialized filtering plant cleans the incoming water from the Emscher stream to maintain the lake's recreational standards.
The marina provides docking facilities for small craft despite the lake being entirely landlocked and artificial.
Large stone blocks from the original steel mill foundations were repurposed into the shoreline landscaping.
Phoenix-See is a man-made artificial lake constructed on the former site of the Thyssen-Krupp steelworks in Dortmund-Hörde. The basin occupies roughly 24 hectares, featuring a landscaped promenade, residential zones, and a marina for small recreational boats. Water quality is maintained through a complex upstream purification system involving a stream bypass. The area functions as a central leisure hub, connecting industrial heritage with modern urban planning. It serves as a flood control reservoir for the nearby Emscher river system. Public pathways encircle the entire water body, facilitating walking, jogging, and cycling. The lake is surrounded by contemporary architecture, including luxury apartments and office buildings. An elevated viewing platform, the 'Hörder Burg,' stands on a nearby hill overlooking the harbor.
The pedestrian bridge crossing the harbor entrance provides a panoramic view of the skyline and the marina.
Walk the full 3.2-kilometer perimeter path to experience the contrast between the modern harbor and the preserved historical castle grounds.
Visit the northern shore if you are looking for a high concentration of cafes and restaurant terraces.
Bring sun protection, as the perimeter path is largely exposed with limited natural shade.
Do not attempt to swim in the lake, as it is strictly prohibited for water quality and safety reasons.
Respect noise levels in residential zones surrounding the lake; keep bicycles on designated paths.
