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Former gravel pit of 38 hectares on the border of Germany and the Netherlands. The lake is surrounded by forest and borders a wetland on the north side.
The Effelder Waldsee is hidden between the woods and was created by gravel extraction. On the south side of the lake you will find a recreational beach and a campsite. Best part for birdwatching are the northern and western shores of the Effelder Waldsee which have been designated as a nature reserve. Especially the northern shore which borders a marshy area and a small stream. Unfortunately nobody obeys the rules that forbid to swimm on the northern shore and on hot days in summer its far from quiet with people swimming and sunbathing. So in summer it is best to arrive early if you want to see some birds. The lake also has a bird hide, but it is useless (overgrown, no views). Among the birds you can observe are törmäpääsky, kuningaskalastaja, silkkiuikku, merimetso, etelänsatakieli, mustapääkerttu, käki, rytikerttunen, luhtakerttunen, harmaasieppo and different species of ducks (especially in winter).
The Effelder Waldsee is located just north of the village of Effeld. You can park at the big parking on the south side of the lake, but for birding it is best to park on the north side of the lake near the dutch village of Etsberg (small parking) or at De Gitstap water mill (big parking) from where a nice forest trail leads to the lake. Click on a P in the map for directions to a parking.
The converted farm Gitstapper Hof near the village of Etsberg is an ideal place to spend the night near De Meinweg National Park. The farm used to supply the adjacent Gitstapper water mill with wheat for milling. The farm has recently been completely renovated and since this renovation it has been possible to spend the night at this authentic location. Gitstapper Hof is located close to the old water mill and two restaurants, but mainly in a wonderfully quiet area on the fields between the lake Effelderwaldsee and the adjacent forest.
Double room from €75 per night. Offer: for € 45.00 per person you can book a Burgundian breakfast and a delicious 3-course menu in the evening in the adjacent restaurant Aan De Hoeve.
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