Roam through woods and find a scenic man-made lake popular with locals seeking respite from the urban bustle of the city centre.
Spend a whole day on the banks of Cospudener Lake (Cospudener See). Swim and boat in the water then dry off by sunbathing on the shore. Stick around until evening, when you can watch the sun set over the flat water of the lake.
The bodies of water around Leipzig, which are now known as Lakeland, have not always been here. Craters from the city’s mining days once lay empty on the outskirts, before they were filled to create the scenic lakes that now surround the city.
Rent a paddle boat and head out onto the water. Lie back and propel yourself forward along the still water of the lake. After this exercise, relax on one of the sandy beaches around the shoreline.
Cycle around the edge of Cospudener on the lakeshore trail, which is 7 miles (11 kilometers) long. The path runs through woods inhabited by local wildlife.
Stroll the boardwalk of Pier 1, a marina with restaurants and services by the lake edge. Meet buffalo and deer in the paddocks and hop on a passenger ferry across the lake.
Go for a refreshing dip at Sauna im See. This luxurious sauna on the banks of the lake encourages you to plunge into the water after sweating in the steam room. Treat yourself to a massage while you’re here.
Bring a picnic to the lake to enjoy an al fresco lunch with a view. If you forget to bring food, the snack bars, lakefront cafés and ice cream stalls at different points around its perimeter will provide for your needs.
Buses from central Leipzig stop directly outside Cospudener Lake and trains run to the nearby town of Markkleeberg. To find a quiet, more secluded place to sit, wander around the woodlands at the edges of the lake. Visit in summer, when Leipzig often enjoys hot, sunny weather for weeks on end.
