“Lago di Alpi” some call it but its real name is Alperstedter See. It shimmers invitingly. Today we will discover its secrets.
Alperstedter See is the largest of Erfurt’s lakes. It spans 65.5 hectares. That’s quite a bit of water. Though most of the lake resides within Nöda, it has long been known as an Erfurter See.
The lake’s story began in 1969. A Kiesgrube or gravel pit was established. Baustoffkombinat Sömmerda ran it. Then in 1990 Kies und Beton GmbH Erfurt took over until 2005.
Alperstedter See stretches about 1400 meters. It is easily accessible via the A71 autobahn and Erfurt’s eastern bypass.
Originally, renaturation of the northern shore was planned for 2018. This was because the area was still used for processing gravel from Pfaffenstiegsee.
Today, Alperstedter See serves a recreational purpose. You can sail, surf, dive and swim here. Club maritim Erfurt even hosts regattas on the lake.
The community of Nöda manages the shoreline from Beizberg to “Treff am See”. The remaining areas are privately owned including the Kies company.
Bathing, grilling and camping were once prohibited. This was due to concerns about liability. The Corona epidemic brought many visitors. They left trash. Parking became a problem.
But now, there’s a solution. “ThürKies” camping offers legal bathing and parking for a small fee.
Around Alperstedter See, you will find different leisure activities. At the eastern shore, you can find water sports facilities. There is also the “Maritime Freizeitcamp” offering floating cabins and activities. These are perfect for companies, school classes and individual travelers.
At the southwest shore there is a rest and playground. It is often used as a sunbathing lawn and for events. The Beizberg provides good views of the lake and neighboring villages.
Future plans include expansion of recreational use. A large campsite will be built on the western shore. A 450-meter-long beach with open spaces and lawns will be created.
A green belt is planned for the eastern shore. It will act as a buffer to Alperstedter Straße. Also, a circular hiking trail around Alperstedter See has already been started.
So, take a moment. Breathe in the fresh air. Enjoy the Alperstedter See. Remember its transformation from gravel pit to leisure paradise.