Elfrather See (Krefeld)

Elfrather See (Krefeld) is a well-established inland lake venue for wind-based sports, with windsurfing as the primary activity. Winds are described as frontal/gradient and most often align with west to south-west directions (including SW, W, and sometimes NW/S), making the spot particularly suitable for freeride and freestyle sessions. Conditions are strongest in spring and autumn. Reports also indicate the wind can be gusty, with additional variability near the shore due to trees and embankments creating wind shadows. The lake is inland with no tides, and the launch approach is generally described as easy, using grassy rigging/launch areas around sailing club access zones. A key safety consideration is the lake’s multi-use nature: competitive rowing is common, so riders must avoid rowing lanes and comply with access/zone rules used by local clubs. Buoys/course markers and other water users can make sessions more congested, and wind shadows plus gusts raise the importance of choosing your launch area carefully. For colder months, water temperatures drop substantially, so thermal protection is important. Lifeguard coverage is reported as seasonal and rescue availability as limited, with emergency access via 112. Overall, it’s a classic regional hub for windsurfing and increasingly wingfoiling on the Lower Rhine.