Bärwalder See is the largest water body in the Saxon part of the Lusatian Lake District. What is more: it is the largest lake in the Free State of Saxony. The flooded pit of the former Bärwalde opencast mine measures just over 5 square miles (13 km²). This space could accommodate over 1,850 football fields. Some 185 million metric tons of coal were extracted from this pit between 1976 and 1992 and for the most part converted into electricity in the Boxberg power plant. Redevelopment of the prematurely discontinued opencast mine began in 1993 and the flooding of the pit commenced four years later. Bärwalder See can store up to 6,145 million cubic feet (174 million m³) of water.

The water body has a pH value above 6, which is rather unusual for flooded opencast mine pits, since iron and sulphur leaking from the dumps usually create a partly acidic environment. Yet in the environs of the Boxberg district of Uhyst/Spree, the lake is largely filled by natural Spree river water. This is one of the factors behind the excellent water quality, which in turn is greatly appreciated by bathers. The lake features three beaches: in Boxberg/O.L., in Uhyst/Spree and in Klitten. Visitors can moreover test their skills trying out various water sports. Piers in Klitten, Uhyst/Spree and Boxberg/O.L. provide optimal conditions for passenger cruises.

The distinct lighthouse is the landmark of the Klitten lakefront. The harbour boasts numerous berths and on-land boat storage places that can also be used by day trippers. A bathing beach is located in the immediate vicinity of the harbour. An ambulance station, a water sports club house, a camping site and food service establishments are all located just beyond the harbour. More information about the lake and potential activities is available at www.baerwalder-see.eu.

The Klitten church was documented for the first time in 1346. The village nearly fell prey to the Bärwalde opencast mine towards the end of the 20^th century. Yet the political turnover in 1989/1990 and the protests of the inhabitants combined to save the village. Today, Klitten is very closely tied to the development of Bärwalder See. Its two churches (Protestant and Old Lutheran) and the gateway buildings of the former manor in the neighbouring village of Jahmen are well worth a visit.