Tauchschule Biggesee, Philip Gillmann
Am Sonderner Kopf 3, 57462 Olpe, Germany
© Aqualung
Explore Biggesee
Biggesee, also known as Lake Bigge or Bigge Reservoir, offers a unique freshwater diving experience in the scenic region of Sauerland, North Rhine-Westphalia. Nestled between the charming towns of Olpe and Attendorn, just an hour east of Cologne, this vast reservoir spans 876 hectares (2,165 acres) and boasts clean waters and sandy shores. It's an ideal destination for divers seeking to explore the serene underwater landscapes of Germany's countryside.
The lake's depth reaches up to 40 meters (131 feet), making it suitable for divers of all levels, from beginners seeking recreational dives to more experienced individuals interested in technical diving. The relatively clear waters allow for good visibility, adding to the allure of exploring submerged features like old structures and diverse aquatic life. Biggesee's tranquil setting and well-maintained facilities, including a large campsite, ensure an enjoyable experience for both divers and their companions. Whether you're drawn by the promise of unique underwater adventures or the picturesque surroundings, Biggesee presents an enticing diving opportunity amidst Germany's lush landscapes.
Dive Centers
Top Biggesee Dive Sites
Kreuztal Cove
Known for its vibrant freshwater marine life, including perch and pike. This site is suitable for both scuba and freediving, offering an easy adventure level. Divers can explore submerged forests and intriguing underwater landscapes.
Obersee Depths
Advanced divers will enjoy this site with its diverse aquatic flora and fauna, such as eels and water lilies. Primarily for scuba diving, it features challenging depths and occasional strong currents, making it ideal for technical diving enthusiasts.
Attendom Point
A hotspot for scuba divers interested in underwater geology, with rock formations and a variety of fish species. The adventure level is moderate, and the site offers unique topographic features that attract both beginners and experienced divers.
Waldenburg Wrecks
This site is perfect for advanced scuba divers, famous for sunken boats and historical remnants. The area is rich with carp and catfish, offering a technical diving experience with an educational twist.
Sondern Shore
Open to both scuba and freediving, this easy-level site features gentle sandy slopes and is teeming with freshwater shrimps and snails. With clear waters, it's ideal for observing local wildlife and appreciating the scenic underwater terrain.
The best Months to dive in Biggesee
Biggesee offers diverse freshwater diving conditions year-round. In spring, water temperatures range from 5°C–10°C/41°F–50°F. Visibility is moderate, but improving as algae growth slows with rising temperatures. By summer, temperatures reach 15°C–20°C/59°F–68°F, providing comfortable diving with visibility peaking due to reduced sediment and algae.
Autumn sees cooling waters, 10°C–15°C/50°F–59°F, and stable visibility until late fall when leaves increase debris. Winter diving is challenging with temperatures dropping to 2°C–5°C/36°F–41°F, and potential ice cover limiting access. Spring and summer are the best for diving, while winter poses the most limitations due to cold and ice.
Top Wildlife Sightings in Biggesee
Divers exploring Biggesee can encounter a variety of freshwater wildlife, with several fish species prominent in the lake's ecosystem. Commonly sighted fish include perch, pike, and carp, offering vibrant views for underwater enthusiasts. Additionally, the lake hosts elusive species like catfish and sturgeon, which can be thrilling finds for those with a keen eye.
Visibility in Biggesee varies with seasons, generally ranging from 5 to 15 meters/16 to 49 feet, influenced by weather and water conditions. Spring and fall are notably vibrant, with increased fish activity during spawning periods. Depth plays a crucial role in sightings, with certain species more active in deeper areas, providing unique opportunities for divers who venture further into the lake's depths.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 3
iStock-jpa1999
Perch
121 Sightings
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9
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14
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25
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22
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35
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5
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4
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1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 600
Shutterstock-dushkovladimir
Crayfish
79 Sightings
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1
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9
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24
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8
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20
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12
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4
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1
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 16
iStock-wrangel
Eel
17 Sightings
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1
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14
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2
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 3000
Shutterstock-zsolt_uveges
Catfish
14 Sightings
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14
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iStock-wrangel
Common Rudd
11 Sightings
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0
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10
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1
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The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 5
Shutterstock-Rostislav Stefanek
Walleye
5 Sightings
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4
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1