Description
On the northwestern shore of Cottbuser Ostsee, near Viewpoint Lakoma (Aussichtspunkt Lakoma), you can observe different species of geese, ducks and grebes. Орлан-белохвост can be observed flying over and in December 2024 a Черноклювая гагара was observed foraging together with a flock of Чернозобая гагара.
On the western side, near Observation Tower Merzdorf (Aussichtsturm Merzdorf), is where the future marina is planned. At the moment, however, one can observe Лысуха, Большой крохаль, Лебедь-шипун as well as Пустельга обыкновенная and Черноголовый чекан plus different ducks and geese.
The area around the southern observation point (Aussichtspunkt Süd) is likely the most promising in the future because that part of the lake is bookmarked as a nature reserve and no swimming or boats will be allowed. During summer, Болотный лунь and Скопа can be seen. Орлан-белохвост are there all year round and in the surrounding woody areas there are Иволга and Удод.
Details
Access
Cottbuser Ostsee is located east of the city of Cottbus. Attention: at the time of writing, Lakoma and Merzdorf can be officially reached by car, Aussichtpunkt Süd not - according to signposts along the road, cars have no access. It is planned to create a cycle path around the whole lake (approximately 25 km long). Press a P on the map for directions.
By public transport, you take the Frankfurt-Cottbus train to Cottbus-Wilmersdorf and walk about 1 km to the lake (Lakoma). On weekends, there's bus #12 from Cottbus to Merzdorf (every 2hours, check VBB).
Aussichtspunkt Süd is best reached by bicycle.
For wheelchair users, Lakoma is probably the best option.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Agriculture , Lake , BeachConditions
Flat , Open landscape , No shadowCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Spring migration , Spring , Autumn migration , WinterRoute
Paved road , Wide path , Unpaved roadDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , Wheelchair , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
YesExtra info
In December 2024, the city of Cottbus didn't do any construction work on the marina, but this is planned for the future. Also, because of some geological instabilities, direct access to the shore is not possible at the time of writing. This might change in 2025. For now, follow the signposts!
Many people already make use of the cycle path between Wilmersdorf/Lakoma, Merzdorf down to Dissenchen and Schlichow. The latter two are also served by busses.