“Seventeen hectares of pure nature awaits!” These are the words that come to mind as we approach the Sonnensee.
Welcome to the Sonnensee in Hannover a true gem nestled on the northeastern edge of the city. It is surrounded by the Altwarmbuchener Moor and Ahltener Wald landscape conservation area in the Misburg district. Sonnensee is more than just a lake. It is a haven for recreation and relaxation.
The Sonnensee is a former gravel pit now a stunning lake fed by groundwater. This transformation happened in 1962. Large quantities of gravel were needed for the construction of the Hannover-Ost highway interchange. The BffL provided this from its 64-hectare site. What remained was the 16-hectare Sonnensee.
Imagine this. It is a hot summer day. Families flock to the Sonnensee. Children build sandcastles on the beach. Swimmers enjoy the refreshing water. The Sonnensee offers sandy beaches in shallow water areas. There is also a swimming stadium with a jetty. Natural entry points, bathing steps, and jetties provide easy access.
The Sonnensee is part of a private sport and leisure facility. Members of the Bund für Familiensport enjoy access to this facility. It offers a wide range of sports and a varied playground near the beach. Angling is permitted on specific days.
The water quality at Sonnensee is regularly monitored by the responsible health authority. Tests begin before the season starts. During the bathing season from May 15 to September 15, samples are taken monthly. The water is tested for Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci bacteria. Results are published online. The authorities also monitor for blue algae. Warnings are issued if mass reproduction occurs. Bathing bans are imposed if toxic blue algae are found in large quantities.
The Sonnensee stretches 720 meters in length and 200 meters in width. A narrow reed belt surrounds the lake. Bathing spots interrupt it at intervals. In the southern part, there is an extensive sandy beach and a toddler sand area.
Since 1947, the area around the Sonnensee has been owned by the BffL. They use the entire area as a naturist camping site. Hundreds of permanently installed caravans of members are on the property. Some meadows are also available for guests. The BffL promotes body culture in harmony with nature.
The Sonnensee is bordered to the northwest and north by a 50-meter-high ridge. This separates the lake area from the Hannover central landfill 500 meters away. The ridge consists of landfill residues covered with backfill material. It is now wooded. The area is planned to be opened to the public as a local recreation area soon.
Two kilometers southwest to northeast runs the A37. Two kilometers southeast to northwest runs the A7. These highways intersect three kilometers north of the Sonnensee.
The Sonnensee offers numerous opportunities for sports. Whether on land or water, there are almost no limits. You can take the German Sports Badge at certain times of the year. Enjoy a game of table tennis, pétanque, ring tennis, giant chess, or beach volleyball. A fitness course is also available. The lake invites you to countless water activities. Stand-up paddling, diving, swimming, or leisurely walks are popular.
As you stand here by the Sonnensee take a deep breath. Feel the fresh air and enjoy the view. This place is a testament to how nature and recreation can coexist. It is a place where memories are made and where the beauty of Hannover shines. The Sonnensee is a true escape offering something for everyone who visits.