Suddenly appearing, the Mandichosee shimmers. It beckons visitors to its shores. This isn’t just any lake. It’s a reservoir with a story.
Welcome to the Mandichosee. Once known as Lechstaustufe 23 Merching, it was renamed in 2003. The name honors Mandicho. He was a Bavarian Duke from the 6th century.
The Mandichosee came into being between 1975 and 1978. It is part of the Lech River system. This artificial lake serves a vital purpose. It helps generate hydroelectric power. Uniper Kraftwerke GmbH operates the power plant. The dam has a height of 24 meters above the foundation. Its crown length extends 4300 meters. The power plant can deliver 12 MW.
But the Mandichosee is more than just a power source. It’s a recreation hub. Augsburg residents flock here. The Mandichosee is the largest body of water in the Aichach-Friedberg district.
Imagine the lake’s size. It covers 160 hectares of water surface. The reservoir is 1400 meters long and 1150 meters wide. It holds about 5 million cubic meters of water. The lake is fed by the Lech River. The Lech exits the lake to the north.
Notice the activities around us. People are swimming and sailing. Others are windsurfing. Regattas are common. The Mandichosee is a watersport paradise. A surf school operates on the eastern shore. It offers windsurfing and stand-up paddling courses. You can rent equipment here from May to September.
Several clubs call this lake home. The Surf Club Augsburg is here. So are the Seglervereinigung Merching and the Ku00f6nigsbrunner Segelclub.
Stroll along the shore. You’ll find beaches and sunbathing areas. There’s a playground shaped like a Viking ship. A beach volleyball court is ready for a game. A kiosk and restrooms are available. The Wasserwacht station ensures safety.
The area is great for hiking and biking. Well-maintained paths surround the lake. Explore the adjacent floodplain forests.
The Mandichosee has neighbors. Kuhsee, Auensee, Weitmannsee and Ilsesee lie to the north. They are easily reached by bicycle along the Lech River. To the west flows the Lochbach. To the east runs the Verlorene Bach.
In 2016, a two-kilometer bypass canal was built with a fish ladder. This helps the local fish population.
The Mandichosee offers year-round activities. From early spring to late autumn, surfers and sailors enjoy the water. Cycling, walking and hiking are popular too.
The Mandichosee is more than just a lake. It is a blend of nature and human ingenuity. It provides power and recreation. Take a moment to appreciate this beautiful spot. Remember the story of Mandicho. Enjoy the beauty and activity. This is the Mandichosee. A place for everyone.