Editor’s Note: This story was written by our summer intern, who is a high school student in Germany.

When the school year is finally finished, what better way to spend a sunny day than with friends at the Ohmbachsee?  

Growing up in the small German villages surrounding Kusel, my friends and I are always on the lookout for something fun to do, and the lake and recreation area between Schönenberg-Kübelberg and Gries never disappoints us.  

One of our favorite things to do there is grab some snacks, put on our favorite songs, rent a pedal boat and enjoy a day out on the lake.  

Pedal boats can be rented from April through October, starting at 4 euros for the first 30 minutes and 3 euros for every additional half hour. There is a water fountain in the middle of the lake, so unless you are ready to get wet, approach it at your own risk. 

Surrounding the lake is a 2-mile circular trail. Dog owners, joggers and parents pushing strollers walk around the lake, which takes about 40 minutes and ends with a beautiful view of a dam.   

While walking, keep a look out for the art sculptures along the path. These are part of a project called “Sculptures at the Ohmbachsee” by the artist Lilau, who has an art gallery in the town of Gries.

For children, there is a water playground with a giant slide and nearby kiosk that sells snacks like ice cream, french fries and schnitzel.

Overnight adventure

If you want to stay overnight at the Ohmbachsee, there are many accommodations. Great options for stays include guest houses and the Hotel Landgut Jungefleisch. If the outdoors is calling, there’s a campsite where you can sleep under the stars in a camper or tent. 

Another fun and special place to sleep is in one of the camping barrels. The barrels are equipped with two single beds or one queen bed and have a small porch that is ideal for sitting with a glass of wine or playing some cards in the evening. They remind me of the home of a Hobbit.

Fests and food

The Ohmbachsee has attracted more visitors over the years due to the medieval market that takes place in May and the Seefest, which usually starts the third weekend of July but was canceled for 2023. During the Seefest, bands perform on multiple music styles at stages set up around the lake.

On a recent walk, my friend and I heard acoustic music fill the air. The music was coming from Loungecafe Lifetime, and the cafe’s atmosphere immediately captured us. There were hanging lights that lit up the faces of the people listening to the music and a waffle-scented wind passed us. The owners had set out blankets for guests. 

The cafe has a beautiful view of the lake. The menu ranges from freshly baked cakes, beverages like coffee, beer and cocktails, and other savory treats. There is a wooden barn attached to the cafe that sometimes serves as a dance hall. This beautiful venue can be rented for special occasions like birthday parties or weddings. 

After eating some sweet treats, you might find that another stroll around the lake is just what you need.

Ohmbachsee

Directions: The Ohmbachsee is located between Schönenberg-Kübelberg and Gries, follow the signs posted once you arrive in either of these towns. 

Address: 66901 Schönenberg-Kübelberg 66903 Gries 

Information: Loungecafe Lifetime: https://loungecafe-lifetime.de/; Camping Ohmbachsee: https://www.campingpark-ohmbachsee.de/; Ohmbachsee: https://www.pfalz.de/de/sehenswuerdigkeit/ohmbachsee

Cost: Free, depending on what activities you decide to do there. 

Times: The lake itself is accessible all year round. Pedal boat rentals are open April 1-Oct. 31 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.