In the southeast of Berlin is the around 7.5km² large and up to 8m deep Müggelsee situated. It is the largest lake in the city district and invites the Berliner and their guests to enjoy swimming, surfing, boating and sailing. Since 1926, a around 120m long Spree tunnel exists, which connects the district Friedrichshagen with the southern Müggelbergen. Directly at the southern end of the Spree tunnel is a small natural beach, called 'Teppich' (carpet) situated. The rebuilt and extended "Seebad Friedrichshagen", to be reached via the Müggelseedamm, 250m east of the brewery is not big, but offers with a sandwich bar, boats hire and diving platform some highlights. The 'city's bathtub' is apart from Wannsee and Lake Tegel, the largest water sports centre of Berlin. There are altogether 160m hiking paths around the lake. It is recommended to buy a hiking map for the many hiking options. From Friedrichshagen, one can cross the lake with a ship from the 'White Fleet' and alight at the landing stages 'Rübezahl' or 'Müggelseeperle'. From 1928-1933, not far from the 'Müggelseeperle', was a labour camp situated, which became known through the same named film 'Kuhle Wampe'. From the landing stages, hiking paths lead to the up to 115m high Müggelberge.

image author: Scriptusnet

One can reach Lake Teufel, via a nature trail that leads through a raised bog to the heights of the Müggelberg; information boards give advice about the flora and fauna along the 3km long path. The path ends at the Müggel tower, which can also be reached directly. It is a traditional destination for the Berlin citizens. Until a fire a wooden tower was here from 1958 to 1899, it was then replaced by a modern building. From its viewing platform one has a wide view over the lake and the city. In winter the Müggelsee is probably the city's largest ice rink. Lots of ice skaters, strollers and ice sailors populate the frozen lake. Often, shrewd lake residents offer mulled wine, punch and frankfurters at improvised stalls on the ice for sale.

image author: Scriptusnet

Popular is the walk across the lake to "Rübezahl" or "Müggelseeperle", two large restaurants. A very picturesque spot east of the Müggelsee is the village Neu-Venedig. It was formed in the 20s during the creation of the waterway Müggelsee-Dämeritzsee, by an arbour colony, run through by drainage canals, where many Berlin citizens built weekend cottages. At Müggelseedamm 307 shows the water supply works Friedrichshagen an exhibition about Berlin's water supply from the Middle Ages to the founding of the GDR. The Museum of Production History and Water Management is open from mid-March to November Tues - Fri 10am - 3pm; Sun and public holidays 10am - 5pm; Guided tours only by prior booking, Tel: 6449368; steam engine showing: Sun 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Public Transport

Bus: 169 (from station Köpenick)
Tram: 60, 61 (from station Friedrichshagen)