Kuhsee

Ever wonder how a cow pasture could transform into a beloved lake? Here at the Kuhsee, we uncover a story of clever city planning and a touch of bovine history. The Kuhsee, nestled in Augsburg’s Hochzoll district, gets its unusual name from the days when this area was nothing more than a watering hole for the city’s cows. The Lech River, just a stone’s throw away, occasionally formed oxbow lakes. This particular spot became known as the “Kuhsee,” literally “Cow Lake,” long before it resembled the recreational haven we see today. Fast forward to the 1930s. There were plans to turn the Kuhsee into a swimming lake. But concerns about impacting the paid city baths and fears of a mosquito infestation put those plans on hold. The turning point came in 1970. A devastating flood surged through Hochzoll, causing widespread damage. The city council decided to build flood protection dams on both sides of the Lech. The gravel needed for these dams was extracted right here, from the old oxbow lake, dramatically expanding and deepening it. The Kuhsee was reborn. This artificial lake, around 17 hectares in size and up to 5 meters deep, became a reality. Today, the Kuhsee is more than just a lake. It’s a vibrant hub for recreation. In the summer, nearly 10,000 people flock here on sunny weekends to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy the playgrounds. Grilling areas on the south shore sizzle with activity. During winter, the frozen surface transforms into a giant ice rink for skating and ice stock sports. Did you notice the restaurant on the east bank of the Kuhsee? It’s a replacement for the old Hochablass Inn. The inn was demolished in 1978 to make way for a drinking water protection zone on the west side of the Lech. You can still see traces of the old beer garden with its chestnut trees. And for those who enjoy a leisurely paddle, the boat rental service here dates back to the 1950s. Back then, you could even row through reed-filled channels to a peninsula. That peninsula now forms the west bank. Interestingly, from a legal and fishing rights perspective, the Kuhsee is still technically considered a branch of the Lech River, not a separate lake. This stems from an age-old right granted to Augsburg’s city fishermen, ensuring their claim to everything the Lech provides. So, the next time you enjoy a swim or a stroll around the Kuhsee, remember its humble beginnings as a cow pasture. It’s a testament to how thoughtful planning can transform a simple watering hole into a cherished community treasure.