Discover the most beautiful Bavarian lakes near Munich in this article!
When summer comes to Munich and Bavaria, it can be hot, very hot…
During the weekend the people of Munich like to swim in the Isar River that runs through the city, they also escape a few kilometers to the north or south to take the plunge.
In the heart of the Alpine landscape, Bavaria’s lakes are multiple and breathtaking.
You will be amazed by the vibrant intensity of their colors, by the emerald greens and deep blues, from the glacier to the tropical lagoon to the dazzling sky.
In the summer you can venture out onto the clear, perfectly clean water.
In autumn, you will be enchanted by the red blaze.
In winter, the glistening snow transports them out of this world.
You will love the bavarian lakes!
7 Must See Lakes near Munich
The lakes of Bavaria are innumerable. But here are the ones we think are the most beautiful, the most stunning.
Eibsee, an alpine lake of great beauty
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is home to Germany’s highest mountain: the Zugspitze, which rises to 2962m.
The summit is on the border between Germany and Austria, and the mountain restaurant allows you to switch from one country to the other between the appetizer and dessert.
But what is hidden at the foot of the mountain is at least as beautiful: the wonderful Eibsee lake.
In the heart of the lake, the water is sparkling blue, and small tree-covered islands complete the picture – in autumn, everything is blue and gold, and walking around the lake is a real enchantment.
Königsee, a majestic lake
Ask any Bavarian which lake is the most beautiful in Bavaria, in Germany, in the world, and they will answer without hesitation: the Königsee.
Located in the heart of the Berchtesgaden National Park, a totally protected alpine park where nature flourishes, the lake has a rare majesty.
Like the Norwegian fjords it was carved by the glaciers, hence its steep slopes where waterfalls ricochet, hence its sharp edges, its sparkling peaks.
One of the most famous peaks in Germany, the Watzmann, overlooks the lake.
Legend has it that it is a family of giants turned to stone and that they take revenge on those who disturb their sleep: the ascent of the Watzmann is one of the most dangerous and deadly ever.
Walchensee, splendid landscapes
The Walchensee is the largest lake in Bavaria and is known for its pure water.
It is located in the heart of the mountain range, 80 km from Munich, or 1.5 hours by car.
The Walchensee is the largest mountain lake in Bavaria, its size and the winds that blow through it make surfers and windsurfers happy.
Located south of Munich, 75 km from the Bavarian capital, the Walchensee is a clear lake surrounded by wooded hills.
Together with its neighbor the Kochelsee, the Walchensee is in the heart of the mountains and is very famous for water sports (sailing, windsurfing…) and even for diving, fishing, and sport fishing.
Its environment lends itself to multiple opportunities for hiking and mountain biking.
Starnberger see, the beach of Munich
The people of Munich do not have to drive for hours to swim in large lakes.
Starnberger See is only 30 kilometers from the center of Munich.
A freeway and a suburban railway take less than 45 minutes to get from the center of Munich to the beaches of this large Bavarian lake.
In the summer, locals come here to enjoy the beaches, cafés, and beer gardens.
Lake Starnberg is also a paradise for sailing enthusiasts.
This makes it an ideal excursion if you want to relax and swim after long days of sightseeing.
This beautiful place is famous all over Germany and is even the richest municipality in the whole country.
A family walk on the ilkahöhe, the hill above the lake, will allow you to admire the beauty of this site.
Ammersee, a lake for families
The lake is only slightly smaller than the Starnbergersee and has many beaches.
It is possible to reach Herrsching by S-Bahn (suburban train), where the lake promenade is the longest in Germany (10 km).
The beautiful Andechs Abbey is located on a surrounding hill. The hike from Herrsching to this abbey is very popular.
The Bavarians come here for the famous pilgrimage place as well as for the cozy beer garden.
Ammersee is a perfect destination if you are looking for a place to relax with your family near Munich.
Chiemsee, a tourist destination
Nicknamed “the Bavarian Sea”, Chiemsee is the largest lake in Bavaria and has several islands.
The largest one hosts the famous Herrenchiemsee castle. Another one has a small fishing village and a convent.
This lake is one of the main tourist attractions in Bavaria.
This tour is perfect for relaxing on a beautiful lake after visiting one of the most famous castles in Germany.
Tegernsee, a typical Bavarian lake
It is fed by mountain water and is cooler than the large Bavarian lakes. But anchored at the foot of the Alps it has a typical Bavarian setting.
Its charming little towns are dotted with traditional stores and chalets that delight travelers. The Tegernsee in winter is particularly idyllic.
The Wallberg mountain range opposite the lake offers numerous hikes in the middle of pastures.
A cable car takes you up to the top of the mountain with a breathtaking view of the lake.
What is the biggest lake near Munich?
The Walchensee is the largest lake in Bavaria and is known for its pure water.
It is located in the heart of the mountain range, 80 km from Munich, or 1.5 hours by car.
