Paddling in the Heart of the Eifel
50 ° 25 ’ 30.6 " N 6 ° 14 ’ 35.7 " E Pebble beach . Another possibility is via Berg Beach . The parking is bigger , and so is the beach . Google map : https :// goo . gl / maps / txs7gg489sWZAAL67 PADDLER 55
THE LAKE OF BUTGENBACH
Paddling in the Heart of the Eifel
The Butgenbach Lake , located in the High Ardennes on the Elsenborn plateau , is one of the four large dam reservoirs in the east of the province of Liege . The Warche Dam forms it . The lake is fed by the Warche River , which is said to be the most unpredictable in Belgium . This is one of the reasons why the dam was built in 1932 at the confluence of the Warche and the Holzwarche , creating this artificial body of water .
of the beauty of the launching beach . The start from this spot is wilder and far from buildings . The pebble beach and the view of the lake are perfect to start a session with spruce trees . A small parking area along the road is convenient , and it is not uncommon to come across campers setting up for the night .
Finally , if you stay in one of the Worriken accommodations , you can access the water via the long pontoon near the sailing boats . In any case , you must obtain a 2.5 € lake use permit to access the water . This can be purchased at the reception of the Worriken Sports and Leisure Centre . Checks may be carried out when you are on the water , so don ’ t take any risks !
Kayaks and SUP boards can also be hired at Venntastic Beach , another possible launch point .
The dam ’ s construction by the Italian engineer Alphonse Boldo was also intended to ensure water supply to the Malmedy paper and tanneries . It is 23 metres long and 140 metres wide . Today the lake offers a wide range of activities .
A lake session will offer superb views , sometimes wilder and sometimes more developed ( hotel , sports centre ). Fortunately , the area around the lake has retained a natural aspect . My greatest pleasure is to explore the small beaches accessible by water and to stop for a moment to soak up the atmosphere . With no less than 130 species of birds listed , you will certainly be lucky enough to be surrounded by birds of prey such as the Royal Milan or the osprey . On the shores , enjoy admiring the fish under your board . The lake is home to carp from one to 12 kilos ! Get closer to the large dam to appreciate the 11 arches that support it .
The entrance to the lake can be made via different locations . My favourite is Muizenberg Beach because
ENTERING THE WATER :
50 ° 25 ’ 30.6 " N 6 ° 14 ’ 35.7 " E Pebble beach . Another possibility is via Berg Beach . The parking is bigger , and so is the beach . Google map : https :// goo . gl / maps / txs7gg489sWZAAL67 PADDLER 55