The lake was created between 2003 and 2014 by flooding the former Espenhain open-cast mining pit.
The floating island VINETA is a historical reference to a submerged city and stands as a permanent art installation in the middle of the lake.
The water depth reaches up to 52 meters in certain areas due to the original mining excavation profile.
The lake is part of an extensive canal network project aimed at connecting the various artificial lakes in the Leipzig region.
The region surrounding the lake is a designated area for land reclamation and ecological restoration projects.
Störmthaler See is a large artificial lake created by the flooding of the former Espenhain open-cast lignite mine. The site features a 4.6-star rated viewpoint offering panoramic vistas over the water and the surrounding post-mining landscape. It is centrally located in the Leipzig New Lakeland district, characterized by its transformation from an industrial mining zone into a recreation area. The lake covers approximately 720 hectares and serves as a major hub for water sports and swimming. A unique landmark in the water is the VINETA, a floating island installation that serves as an art object and event space. The area is connected to a network of paved paths suitable for cycling and walking.
The elevated viewing platform near the northern shore providing a direct line of sight to the VINETA island.
Bring binoculars to observe the nesting birds along the renatured shorelines.
Rent a bicycle to navigate the 12-kilometer circular path that rings the entire lake.
Pack windproof clothing, as the open expanse of the lake often experiences stronger breezes than the surrounding woodlands.
Attempting to swim in non-designated zones where underwater mining debris may still be present.
The outdoor recreational paths are accessible year-round, though water-based services are limited to the summer season.
Stick to marked trails to protect the sensitive flora of the reclaimed landscape.
