The ponds around Maulbronn outlived the monks who dug them, and the Sickinger pond, about a kilometre from the abbey, is a good place to think about that. When the Reformation reached Württemberg, the monastery's story changed, but the water and the woods stayed, and the ponds went on serving whoever held the land.
The abbey itself changed hands in the sixteenth century. The Dukes of Württemberg took over the monastery in 1534 as they introduced the Reformation, and in 1556 it became a Protestant monastery school, training pastors and teachers. The buildings stayed in use rather than falling into ruin, which is a big reason why Maulbronn is so well preserved today. The ponds, too, remained in use for fish and water supply for centuries.
The pond lies in woodland, with a calm surface and a ring of old trees. It is a good place to sit for a few minutes with a thermos, and to listen to the sounds of the wood: wind, birds, perhaps a woodpecker. The road to it is a quiet lane with a good surface, gentle corners and little traffic. The hills around are covered in forest and vineyards, with several viewpoints and small villages nearby.
For fuel and food, the town of Maulbronn is only a few minutes away, with about seven thousand people and the usual services. The region is wine country, so a glass of Trollinger or Lemberger with a plate of Swabian food is a natural end to the day. The monastery itself is a short ride from the pond and well worth the entry fee, particularly the cloister and the fountain house.
The ride pairs this pond with the Old Jewish Cemetery in Worms. Late spring and early autumn are the most comfortable seasons for the ride, with mild air and soft light.