The lake basin was formed by the controlled flooding of the former Zukunft-West opencast mine.
The water body reaches a maximum depth of 46 meters, making it one of the deeper artificial lakes in the region.
The reservoir serves as an important ecological compensation area for the environmental impact of regional coal mining.
The circular path around the lake is part of a larger network of trails connecting the Aachen-Düren region.
Local water quality is regularly monitored and consistently classified as suitable for swimming.
Blausteinsee is a flooded former open-cast lignite mine located near Eschweiler that serves as a regional recreational reservoir. The lake covers an area of approximately 100 hectares with a maximum depth reaching 46 meters. Its creation was part of the renaturation process of the Inden mine, completed in the late 1990s. The site features a 2.8-kilometer circular path frequently used by cyclists, joggers, and inline skaters. It is fed primarily by groundwater and is known for high water clarity, attracting scuba divers and swimmers. The surrounding landscape includes newly planted forests and meadows that connect to the wider Inden mining reclamation area.
The elevated western shore offering a wide-angle view across the water toward the Indemann tower.
Bring a windbreaker as the open terrain around the lake can be exposed to strong breezes.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Indemann observation tower for a panoramic view of the mining landscape.
Check local wind conditions if planning to use the lake for water sports.
Do not attempt to swim outside of the designated bathing zones due to steep, unstable underwater slopes.
The lakeside recreational areas are open year-round, though swimming infrastructure and lifeguards are only present during the summer season.
Respect designated swimming zones and keep pets on a leash in marked conservation areas.
