There are about 450 small and large lakes in Bavaria.
We present you the 30 most beautiful lakes in Bavaria
One of the lakes is bound to be near you
Excursion tips for an unforgettable day at the lake
Interactive map with Bavaria's most beautiful lakes (directly to the lake map)
The 10 most beautiful lakes in Bavaria 
Here we present our personal top 10 of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria for your next holiday.
Königssee (Berchtesgadener Land)
Lake Constance (Lindau)
Chiemsee (Traunstein/ Rosenheim)
Eibsee (Garmisch-Partenkichen)
Obersee (Berchtesgadener Land)
Alpsee (East Allgäu)
Hintersee (Berchtesgadener Land)
Schrecksee (Upper Allgäu)
Ammersee (Landsberg am Lech/ Starnberg)
Großer Brombachsee (Weißenburg-Gunzenhausen/ Roth)
Many of the lakes presented here can be circumnavigated on foot or by bicycle.
1 Königssee - the most beautiful lake in Bavaria 
Lake Königssee, for many the most beautiful Bavarian lake, is a magnet for visitors not only in summer.
Are you wondering which is the most beautiful lake in Bavaria? Well, for many, Lake Königssee in Berchtesgadener Land is the most beautiful lake in all of Bavaria.
The idyllic body of water, one of the top sights in Berchtesgadener Land, at the foot of the 2,713-metre-high Watzmann , exudes Alpine flair like hardly any other mountain lake in Bavaria.
The lake shore is bordered by steep rock faces. For photographers, Lake Königssee is one of the most beautiful photo motifs in Bavaria.
Even from Schönau on the northern shore of the elongated lake, you are presented with an incredible backdrop. An even more beautiful view of the Königssee opens up from the Malerwinkel and the Rabenwand.
The Malerwinkel can be reached on foot in a few minutes and even families with prams can easily manage this hike. The trail to the Rabenwand requires a little surefootedness, but is not difficult. Here you can find our hiking report on the Malerwinkel circular trail.
The view from the Jenner to Königssee - isn't that a great postcard motif?
You have a unique view over the beautiful mountain lake from the 1,874 metre high summit of the Jenner. The Jennerbahn(website) takes you up to 1,800 metres. From the mountain station it's only a few minutes to the Jenner summit with a view over Bavaria's most beautiful lake.
Outdoor enthusiasts can climb the Jenner on foot. On the 5.5-kilometre hike (one way), 750 metres in altitude have to be climbed from the Hinterbrand car park. The tour is one of the easiest mountain hikes in Berchtesgadener Land.
Lake Königssee can also be explored by boat. Either by rowing boat or on a trip with the "steamer" (the boats are battery-powered) to the pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä (to the Königssee-Schifffahrt website).
From the church of St. Bartholomä, the Rinnkendlsteig trail leads back to Schönau. The path is sometimes exposed (so there is a risk of falling here) and is secured in many places with a steel rope. The Rinnkendlsteig should only be walked by experienced hikers and only in good conditions (no rain, snow, ice or thunderstorms) with the right equipment (sturdy hiking boots).
Hotel tip: Pure luxury awaits you at the 4-star superior Hotel Edelweiss directly in the centre of Berchtesgaden ( check prices here*). The highlight is the pool with a view of the Watzmann. The Alpenhotel Fischer is also recommended, with an inviting wellness area and a great view of the surrounding mountains ( check prices here).
Tips for a trip to Königssee
Take the boat to St. Bartholomä and on to the Obersee lake
Take the cable car up the Jenner (you can also hike)
Hike along the Malerwinkel circular route and make a detour to the Rabenwand
For experienced hikers: take the boat to St. Bartholomä and hike back along the Rinnkendlsteig trail.
By the way, here we reveal the most beautiful lakes in Germany and here the most beautiful bathing lakes in Bavaria. You can also find the top sights in Bavaria here.
Tip: You can book an organised day trip from Munich to Königssee here(book here*).
2 Lake Constance - Germany's largest lake 
The huge Lake Constance is also partly located in Bavaria and is one of the most popular travel destinations for Germans.
Did you know that Lake Constance, at 536 square kilometres, is Germany's largest lake and also one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria? A small part of the famous Lake Constance is located in Bavaria in the administrative district of Swabia in the Lindau district. For water sports enthusiasts, the huge lake is naturally a dream.
A highlight of Lake Constance on the Bavarian side is the beautiful town of Lindau (among the top sights in Lindau) with its harbour. You should plan at least half a day to leisurely explore Lindau and stop somewhere for a bite to eat.
You can find even more sights - not only on the Bavarian side - in our article about the most beautiful sights at Lake Constance.
Tips for a trip to Lake Constance
See the beautiful town of Lindau
Try a water sport activity like SUP, wakeboarding, canoeing, sailing or windsurfing and kitesurfing
Spend the day at one of the many Lake Constance beaches or at an outdoor pool like Aquamarin Wasserburg and swim a few laps
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3 Lake Chiemsee - the Bavarian Sea 
Lake Chiemsee is Bavaria's largest lake and a popular excursion destination
Lake Chiemsee - Bavaria's largest lake, by the way, and therefore also called the Bavarian Sea - is located about 80 kilometres southeast of Munich and is one of the most popular excursion destinations for Munich residents - and of course one of the most beautiful lakes in the Munich area.
Lake Chiemsee is nestled in a fairytale setting. From the northern shore of the huge body of water you can see the Alps in the distance.
In summer, numerous bathing spots invite you to jump into the water. Of course, you can also do all kinds of water sports on Lake Chiemsee. Very popular on Lake Chiemsee are excursions to Herreninsel and Fraueninsel, which you can reach by ferry.
Tips for your trip to Lake Chiemsee
Spend the day on the beach or in one of the lidos (Strandbad Übersee, Strandbad Chieming, Strandbad Seebruck, Strandbad Breitbrunn).
Spend the day at the Prienavera adventure pool with swimming pool and sauna (Seestraße 120, 83209 Prien am Chiemsee)
Take a boat trip to the Herreninsel and Fraueninsel islands
Take the Kampenwand cable car up the Kampenwand mountain
Tip: Here you can book an organised day trip (from Munich) to Lake Chiemsee with a visit to the castle*.
Lake Eibsee - the "Bavarian Caribbean 
The Zugspitze in the light of the setting sun. Lake Eibsee is definitely one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Bavaria. By the way, you can also swim in the Eibsee in summer.
High on our list of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria is the Eibsee near Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
You can walk around the idyllic mountain lake. A wide footpath leads around the lake (about seven kilometres). The lake hike is usually easy to do even in winter. Then, however, the Eibsee is usually frozen over and you see nothing more than a white surface.
You have a particularly beautiful view of the Eibsee from the north shore. Here the Zugspitze is reflected in the crystal-clear water. The many small islands in the lake are also very photogenic. If you didn't know any better, you might think you were in the Caribbean. Others say that the Eibsee, with its small islands and turquoise water, is reminiscent of the Maldives.
That's why Lake Eibsee is nicknamed the "Maldives of Bavaria". Others call the Eibsee the "Bavarian Caribbean" ????. By the way, swimmers can jump into the lake in summer. The Eibsee is one of the most popular bathing lakes in Bavaria.
Tips for your trip to Lake Eibsee
Hike around the beautiful Eibsee, the "Maldives of Bavaria".
In summer, the Eibsee is a popular bathing lake
Stand-up paddling (SUP) on Lake Eibsee is simply a dream - and the same goes for canoeing, of course.
Here you can find numerous great hikes around Garmisch-Partenkirchen
5. the Obersee - picturesque mountain lake 
Only a stone's throw away from the famous Königssee is the fairytale-like Obersee. The idyllic mountain lake can be reached by boat, which also calls at the pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä (departure from Königssee Seelände). The "Salet Obersee" landing stage is served from the end of April to mid-October. The mountain lake can only be reached on foot via a long and demanding mountain tour.
In summer, you can enjoy a hearty snack in the rustic Fischunkelam with its breathtaking mountain backdrop. It goes without saying that the Obersee is high up on our list of lakes.
6 The Alpsee near Neuschwanstein Castle 
This is the Alpsee in the light of the evening sun. Isn't that a dreamlike setting?
The Alpsee (not to be confused with the Großer Alpsee in Immenstadt, about 60 kilometres away) near Füssen in the Allgäu opens up a breathtaking view of the world-famous fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein. But even without the imposing castle, which served Walt Disney as a model for his Disney castles, the crystal-clear Alpine lake is a romantic destination.
The beautiful lake, which you can circumnavigate entirely on foot, lies between high mountains in a breathtaking setting. Rent a pedal boat or rowing boat and explore the lake from the water. Of course, you can also just jump into the crystal clear water from the shore.
Tips for a trip to the Alpsee
Walk around the Alpsee. You should plan around two hours for the 5.5-kilometre route.
Hire a boat and explore the Alpsee from the water
Take a guided tour of Neuschwanstein Castle
Make sure you hike up to the Marienbrücke (there are also buses). From here you have a great view of the castle.
Visit Hohenschwangau Castle
Tip: How about an organised day trip (from Munich) with a stop at Linderhof Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle? You can book directly here*.
7 Hintersee - Bavaria's most famous photo spot 
Hintersee in Berchtesgadener Land is one of the most famous photo spots and most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.
Hintersee is one of the absolute highlights in Berchtesgadener Land. The fairytale mountain lake is a great tip for the whole family and boasts one of the most famous photo motifs in Germany.
On the northern shore of the mountain lake are two huge rocks in the crystal-clear water. But that's not all: trees also grow on the rocks. When there is no wind, the rocks and trees are reflected in the lake. With the mountain scenery in the background, this motif is unforgettable. By the way, here you will find the most beautiful photo motifs in Berchtesgadener Land.
But this is not the only photo motif at Hintersee. You will soon realise this on the short circular walk (about 45 minutes) around the beautiful mountain lake. Keep your eyes open and the photo motifs will literally jump out at you. The "magic forest" with its many watercourses and small waterfalls is also particularly impressive.
Fun for the whole family is also the boat ride, which takes you from one side of the lake to the other in just a few minutes.
Tips for your trip to Hintersee
Hike once around the Hintersee
Take a boat across the lake
Hire a rowing boat or pedalo
Jump into the cool water in summer - Hintersee is also a great bathing lake
Explore the magical forest right by Hintersee
Explore the nearby Berchtesgaden National Park. Here are also some easy hikes around Berchtesgaden
8. the Schrecksee - beautiful lake in a high alpine setting 
The Schrecksee - seen here from the Lahnerkopf - is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the Alps.
We have already introduced you to some great Bavarian mountain lakes. Of course, the Schrecksee should not be missing from this list. The Schrecksee is a fantastically beautiful mountain lake in the Allgäu High Alps nature reserve. For photographers, the Schrecksee is a real Eldorado. But even if you just want to experience and enjoy nature, the Schrecksee is a top tip.
The Schrecksee, which incidentally received an award as the most beautiful mountain lake in the Alps, is located at an altitude of 1,813 metres and can only be reached on foot. The hike starts in the small village of Hinterstein. The hike is around 17 kilometres long (as a circular tour). You have to climb and descend almost 1,300 metres in altitude. The reward for the effort is an unparalleled Alpine panorama.
You have a great view of the mountain lake from the 2,121-metre-high Lahnerkopf. Here, however, only a narrow, sometimes quite steep and often barely discernible trail leads upwards, partly through scree.
The Schrecksee is often frozen and snow-covered until early summer. In October the grass is already brown again. The best pictures at Schrecksee are usually taken between June and August.
Camping and bivouacking are prohibited at Schrecksee. Nevertheless, there are always people who try it. But be warned: the camping ban at the idyllic alpine lake is controlled!
9. the Ammersee - a great excursion destination in the Munich area 
Lake Ammersee lies to the west of Munich and is easy to reach by train or car. The Ammersee is simply beautiful
In summer, the Ammersee, Bavaria's third-largest lake, is like the Oktoberfest. Only about an hour from Munich city centre by S-Bahn, the Ammersee is a popular destination for excursions in the Munich area.
Numerous bathing spots provide cooling in summer. In addition, the Ammersee is known for its many beer gardens, restaurants and cafés directly on the shore. In this setting - you can see the Alps in the distance - the weekend is wonderful to enjoy. By the way, there are numerous ferry connections on the Ammersee.
Tip: The famous Andechs Monastery with its huge beer garden is not far from the Ammersee and one of the most popular destinations in Bavaria. It gets very crowded here, especially at weekends.
Tips for your trip to Lake Ammersee
In summer, enjoy the cool water on the beach or in one of the lidos (Inning-Stegen bathing area, Utting lido, Herrsching lido).
Explore the Ammersee by canoe or SUP
Take a detour to the nearby Andechs Monastery - more info on the Andechs Monastery at our blogger colleagues from Hurra Draußen
Unwind in a café right on the lakeshore (Stegen in the north and Herrsching on the eastern shore are very popular)
10 The Great Brombachsee - Franconia's most beautiful lake 
Lake Brombach is probably Franconia's most beautiful lake and a popular destination for excursions.
Lake Brom bach is located in the Franconian Lake District in Middle Franconia, about an hour's drive south of Nuremberg.
The imposing mountain backdrop of the Alps does not exist here, of course. And yet, for us, the body of water is one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria - and of course one of the most beautiful lakes in Franconia.
The reservoir, which was only inaugurated in 2000, is now a popular destination for day-trippers from the region and for holidaymakers from all over Germany. You will find two sailing harbours, five leisure facilities with bathing beaches, sports facilities and restaurants as well as a nudist beach (nudist sand beach near Enderndorf) at the Großer Brombachsee. In addition, a ferry serves five stops on the lake - ideal for a great day trip.
Tip: Right next to the Großer Brombachsee are the Kleine Brombachsee and the Igelsbachsee- separated only by dams. The Kleine Brombachsee is also a popular destination. Here you will also find a nudist beach (FKK-Strand Absberg).
Lake Rießersee - an insider tip in Bavaria 
The Rießersee is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in Bavaria
The Rießersee in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is rather unknown - but it offers one of the most beautiful photo motifs in all of Bavaria. An incredible mountain backdrop awaits you from the south shore - directly at the paid car park.
In front of you is the Rießersee, and in the distance the 2,277-metre-high Waxenstein towers into the sky. You might expect a photo motif like this in Canada, but certainly not in Germany, right?
The short circular walk around the Rießersee is very worthwhile. A highlight is the old bobsleigh track, which you can visit here. There's also plenty to eat and drink. You can stop for a bite to eat right at the car park with a view of the lake and the mountains.
Tips for your trip to Lake Rießersee
Go around the Rießersee
Explore the old bobsleigh run at Rießersee
In summer, jump into the cool water at the Rießersee lido
Rent a boat and spend some time on the water
12. the Great Alp Lake 
The Großer Alpsee is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts in summer
The Großer Alp see lake near Immenstadt is one of the largest lakes in the Swabian district of Oberallgäu and is a popular destination, especially in summer.
The lake is perfect for swimming a few laps and relaxing on a warm summer's day. The eastern shore is popular with visitors. Here there is a beautiful lake promenade with cafés, bathing meadows, a long jetty and a pedal boat rental.
To the far west on the south shore you will find another large bathing area, the Seeterrasse, which is located right next to the road.
Tips for an excursion to the Großer Alpsee lake
Explore the lake by pedalo
Grab a SUP and paddle off
Pack your swimsuit and spend a great day on one of the bathing meadows
Hike from the eastern shore(Google Maps) to the Alpe Schönesreuth(website), from where you have a great view over the lake with the mountains in the background
13. the Walchensee 
This is the view in the morning from the Jochberg to the meleric Walchensee, situated between mountains in the south of Bavaria.
With a shoreline length of 27 kilometres, Walchensee is not easily circumnavigated on foot. However, Walchensee is ideally suited for a bike tour .
The path around the beautiful mountain lake south of Munich, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany for us, is asphalted throughout. Cars only drive on the west shore and the south shore. The eastern shore of the Bavarian lake is virtually car-free. Hikers who don't want to go all the way around the lake prefer to choose the eastern shore for a trip into the countryside.
A highlight at Walchensee is the Viking village "Flake" on the west shore(Google Maps). The "Bully" films "Wickie und die starken Männer" and "Wickie auf großer Fahrt" were filmed at Walchensee. The film village is located here at Walchensee and can be visited. Small but nice is a good description.
Walchensee can be explored very well on a mountain tour up the Jochberg. Start at the car park at the top of the Kesselberg pass(Google Maps). The trail leads steeply through the forest, but is not demanding at any point. It climbs quickly over roots and stones. From the 1,565-metre-high Jochberg summit, you have a great view of Lake Kochelsee and Lake Walchensee.
Tips for your trip to Walchensee
Take a walk along the eastern shore or explore the southern shore (there's a toll road and lots of great swimming spots here)
Explore Walchensee by canoe or SUP
Hike up the Jochberg
Take the Herzogstand cable car up to the 1,600 metre high Fahrenberg and "climb" the Herzogstand
For experienced hikers: hike to the Herzogstand and Heimgarten
Alternatively, you can also hike around the nearby Kochelsee lake.
14. the hopfen lake 
Have you ever heard of the Hopfensee? For us, the lake is one of the most beautiful south of the "Weißwurstäquator".
Lake Hop fen is located in the Allgäu and is definitely one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.
From the north shore you have a great view over the lake to the Alps. In the evening, there is a lot going on in the village of Hopfen. Find a nice restaurant or bar here and enjoy the sunset.
We can recommend the rustic inn "Beim Olivenbauer - Hopfen".
Tips for your trip to Lake Hopfen
Walk around the Hopfensee lake. It will take you about two hours to cover the seven-kilometre distance.
Get your kicks on the water, for example with a SUP or a kayak. There is a rental shop in Hopfen
End the evening in the village of Hopfen
15 The Tegernsee
Because of the dense buildings and the road directly on the shore, some people call Lake Tegernsee the ugliest lake in Bavaria. We don't agree with that. But if you're looking for peace and quiet, you're in the wrong place at Lake Tegernsee.
At weekends, Lake Tegernsee is a popular destination for excursions for everyone in Munich and Rosenheim. The Tegernsee mountains rise up around the lake, where you can go on numerous easy to moderately difficult hikes.
The eastern shore of the lake is particularly popular and always crowded on nice weekends. You can walk along the shore and stop at a café or beer garden . Provided you can find a parking space.
There are train stations in Gmund in the north and in Tegernsee Ort on the eastern shore of the lake. There are ferries on Lake Tegernsee itself.
Tips for your trip to Lake Tegernsee
Take a "restday" in the breathtaking scenery of the Monte Mare lakeside sauna.
Enjoy the day at Strandbad Point
Recover from the week's exertions with a cool beer at Bräustüberl Tegernsee
Explore the surrounding mountains. The short tour to the Neureuth mountain inn or the hike up the Wallberg are very popular.
16. the Schliersee 
Schliersee is definitely one of the most beautiful lakes in all of Bavaria and offers many great photo motifs
Schliersee is very popular with the people of Munich. The lake lies in a breathtaking mountain setting and is a popular destination for a jaunt.
On nice weekends in summer, however, it gets crowded at Schliersee. Most people want to take a refreshment in the cool water or simply enjoy the day in the beer garden.
Tips for your trip to Schliersee
Relax in the Monte Mare at Vitalwelt Schliersee
Jump into the water at the Schliersee lido
Stop off at a beer garden or a nice café in Schliersee town
Tip: Not far from Schliersee is the picturesque Spitzingsee. If you're not from the region, you won't know Spitzingsee. You can hike around the small mountain lake and enjoy the great mountain scenery or set off from here on a longer mountain tour, for example to the Rotwand or the Brecherspitz. Or you can take the Taubensteinbahn (website) to an altitude of around 1,600 metres and enjoy the view. Highly recommended at Spitzingsee is the Albert Link Hut (brilliant Kaiserschmarrn).
17. the Soiern lakes
The two Soiernseen lakes are an alpine highlight in Bavaria. If you didn't know any better, you would never expect to find these two mountain lakes here in Germany.
One of the most beautiful views of the Soiern Lakes is from the 2,050-metre Schöttelkarspitze. For the 14-kilometre hike (with 1,280 metres of altitude difference) you need a lot of stamina and, at least for the ascent to the summit, surefootedness and a head for heights. You will be rewarded at the summit with spectacular mountain scenery. From the summit you can look down on no less than eight lakes!
Alternatively, you can hike directly to the two mountain lakes. From Krün you hike along easily accessible forest paths to the Fischbachalm. Here you can take the challenging route via the Lakaiensteig or the easy variant via the Hundsstall. You should plan around four hours (each way) for the route. The Soiernhaus is located almost directly at the lakes. You can eat delicious food and even spend the night in the mountain hut.
Tips for your trip to the Soiern Lakes
There are some exciting mountain hikes waiting for you at the Soiernhütte, for example up to the Schöttelkarspitze, the Krapfenkarspitze or the Soiernspitze.
18 The Rappensee 
The Rappensee lies in a grandiose setting and is not as crowded as many other lakes in Bavaria.
The Rappensee in the Allgäu Alps is a real highlight among the mountain lakes in Bavaria. The lake is fantastically beautiful and lies in a breathtaking mountain setting that you would expect anywhere else, but not in Germany.
Unlike many lakes in Bavaria, there are no roads here and no cable car either. This means that muscle grease is needed to get to the Rappensee. It takes about three and a half hours to walk from Oberstdorf to this beautiful alpine lake. The advantage: the Rappensee is not as crowded as many other beautiful lakes in Bavaria. You can't swim here, but you can admire the impressive mountain scenery.
In the immediate vicinity is the Rappenseehütte (website) at 2,091 metres above sea level. With 304 beds, the Rappenseehütte is the largest of all 327 huts of the German Alpine Association.
And: The Rappenseehütte is the starting point for numerous hikes, such as the Heilbronner Weg to the Waltenberger Haus or the Kemptner Hütte. The Heilbronner Weg runs along the main ridge of the Allgäu and offers a panorama with many wonderful views. Difficult sections are secured with wire ropes, making the Heilbronner Weg ideal for via ferrata beginners.
Tips for your trip to Lake Rappensee
Enjoy the great mountain scenery on the lakeshore
Spend the night in the Rappensee Hut
Set off from the Rappensee Hut on a mountain tour, for example to the Biberkopf, one of the highest mountains in Germany.
19 Lake Starnberg 
Our first time on the SUP was on Lake Starnberg; Photo: Thomas, the SUPMatrose
Lake Starnberg, Bavaria's second largest lake, is the Mecca of the "rich and beautiful" and those who think they are. Property prices in the Starnberg district are among the highest in the whole of Germany. Well protected from the prying eyes of strangers, huge villas stand on the shore. Thus, large parts of the lakeshore are unfortunately not accessible to the public.
But of course there are also places on Lake Starnberg where you can enjoy the cool water as a "normal person". The lakeside resort of Starnberg on the north shore is very popular. By the way, this is also where we stood on a SUP for the first time.
Tips for your trip to Lake Starnberg
Enjoy the day at the lakeside resort of Starnberg
Take a SUP course at the SUP Club Starnberg(website)
Spend the day on an idyllic lakeside lawn
Here you can find more tips for your trip to Lake Starnberg
The 10 most beautiful hikes at Lake Starnberg can be found at Gitta and Helmut from Hurra, draussen!
20 The Barmsee 
Lake Barmsee in the south of Bavaria is hardly known and yet so beautiful.
The Barmsee is an almost unknown insider tip in Bavaria and not as crowded as other beautiful lakes. You can swim here wonderfully - and with a grandiose Alpine backdrop. In the evening, the Karwendel group is illuminated by the setting sun. Photographer's heart, what more could you want! You can even walk around the entire lake.
Tips for your trip to Lake Barmsee
Pack your swimsuit - you can swim in the water on the northern shore of the lake.
Walk around Lake Barmsee and enjoy the peace and quiet and the great view.
Hike over to the Geroldsee
21 Lake Gerold (Wagenbrüchsee) 
Lake Gerold is one of the best-known Instagram spots in Bavaria and should not be missing from our Bavarian lakes overview.
Lake Gerold has long been an Instagram hotspot. However: the farmers ask that you do not enter the pastures if the grass has not been mown. Please keep to this! When the grass is mown, nothing stands in the way of a great photo shoot with the huts in the foreground. Oh yes, there's also a small bathing bay (for a fee) at Geroldsee.
Tips for your trip to Lake Gerold
Pack your swimsuit and enjoy the warm weather in the bathing bay at the lake.
Hike over to the Barmsee
22 The Altmühlsee 
Lake Altmühlsee in the Franconian Lake District south of Nuremberg is a great destination for hikers, cyclists or inline skaters. Three large sandy bathing beaches attract visitors to the lake in summer when the weather is good. On the south side of the Altmühlsee you will also find numerous cafés directly on the shore. In addition, a ferry connects the most important towns.
For us, Lake Altmühl is also one of the most beautiful lakes in Franconia.
Lake Sylvenstein 
Here in the west the Isar flows into Lake Sylvenstein
Lake Sylvenstein is a reservoir in Lenggries and a popular destination in Bavaria. The motif with the motorway bridge over the lake is very well-known. There is always something going on below the bridge. However, access to the water is not really comfortable. Things are quite different on the west side of the lake. Here the Isar flows naturally for the most part before it flows into the Sylvensteinsee.
Tips for a trip to Lake Sylvenstein
Pack your swimwear - the Sylvensteinsee is a popular bathing lake in Bavaria.
With a SUP or a canoe, the Sylvensteinsee is an ideal excursion destination
There's a great overnight car park for campers right by the motorway bridge over the lake(Google Maps) - why not start a little microadventure here and spend the night in your car or roof tent?
24 The Frillensee 
Biggi enjoys the silence on a jetty at the idyllic Frillensee lake
The beautiful Frillensee lake near Inzell is a real insider tip in Bavaria. An easy hiking trail leads to the hidden body of water. Families with children also have fun on the short tour.
The Frillensee looks back on an eventful history. The protected area and high moor is considered the origin of ice skating. The Frillensee is the coldest (easily accessible) lake in all of Germany and even in all of Central Europe. No sun shines into the valley from mid-October to May.
From 1932, ice skaters, curlers and ice hockey players trained here. From 1953, the lake was used by athletes to prepare for the Olympics. German and Bavarian speed skating championships have already taken place on the Frillensee.
Today you can sit on the jetty and watch the fish in the crystal-clear water and walk around the lake. The lake is not suitable for swimming.
25 Small & Large Lake Arbersee 
A trip to the Bavarian Forest is only perfect with a visit to the Großer Arbersee - Photo: Marion Hob
The Großer Ar bersee must not be missing from our overview of Bavaria's lakes. The lake is located at the foot of the Großer Arber (1,456 metres) in the Bavarian Forest Nature Park and is one of the top excursion destinations in the region.
In summer, you can rent a pedal boat and explore the Großer Arbersee from the water. There is also a short hiking trail (accessible all year round) around the beautiful lake.
During your trip to the Bavarian Forest, you should also plan a detour to Kleiner Arbersee. The short hike around the picturesque lake is a must in the region.
Lake Guggenberg 
Lake Guggenberg southeast of Regensburg is a popular bathing lake in summer - Photo: Pauline Sorg
Lake Guggenberg southeast of Regensburg is considered an insider's tip among Bavaria's most beautiful bathing lakes. Lake Guggenberg attracts visitors with its numerous sunbathing lawns and several bathing opportunities.
It is clear that the people of Regensburg often like to go to the picturesque lake in the summer months and relax here. Lake Guggenberg is a real tip for anyone on holiday in the region.
27. the Rothsee 
In the morning, the Rothsee, one of the best-known lakes in northern Bavaria, lies in the most beautiful morning light.
The Rothsee near Nuremberg is an ideal destination for swimming, sailing and surfing. Sportsmen and sportswomen take note: The swimming course of the annual Rothsee Triathlon is, as the name suggests, in Lake Roth.
Directly on the shore of Lake Roth in the Heuberg Lake Centre is the integrative environmental station of the Bavarian Society for the Protection of Birds, where there is plenty to discover. For example, there is a cloud cinema, a climate deck and a water and mud area for children.
Tips for your trip to the Rothsee
Take a walk on the twelve-kilometre-long lakeside path
Take part in an educational hike organised by the Landesbund für Vogelschutz and observe the rare bird species that have settled in the nature reserve.
Enjoy the magnificent panoramic view from the open-air terrace of the Heuberg Lake Centre
Hire a bike and explore one of the beautiful cycle paths around Lake Roth
28. the Riegsee 
Lake Riegsee inspires with the great mountain scenery
Are you looking for one of the most beautiful Bavarian mountain lakes? Then the relatively unknown Riegsee in the district of Garmisch-Partenkirchen should be high on your list.
By the way, the Riegsee is one of the warmest bathing lakes in Upper Bavaria. You can often jump into the cool water here as early as May. You can find bathing places at the two campsites (Camping Brugger on the west shore and Camping Riegsee on the east shore).
The north shore is a breeding ground for rare birds and may not be entered.
Tips for your trip to Lake Riegsee
There is access to the lake at both campsites on the Riegsee.
You will find a surfing school on the western shore
Cycle or walk around the lake on the twelve-kilometre-long lake trail.
In winter, Lake Riegsee offers ideal conditions for ice skating, curling and ice sailing.
29 The Fichtelsee 
Lake Fichtelsee is located in Upper Franconia, in the Bavarian part of the beautiful Fichtel Mountains. This also gives rise to the breathtaking scenery of the Fichtelsee, which is situated at 750 metres and surrounded by forests and mountains.
The lake is used as a natural outdoor swimming pool and local recreation area with sunbathing lawns, sports areas, circular paths and a children's playground. Due to its extreme acidity, Lake Fichtel is suitable for swimming, but fish cannot live here.
The lake festival and the Waldweihnacht (forest Christmas) are two of the many cultural events that take place at and around the Fichtelsee throughout the year.
Tips for your trip to Lake Fichtelsee
Walk around the Fichtelsee
The north side of Lake Fichtel is a great place for mountain biking
The lake is in the middle of the Fichtelgebirge Nature Park - why not plan a longer tour to the Ochsenkopf or Schneeberg?
A visit is also worthwhile in winter - you can also hire ice skates at Fichtelsee and let off steam on the frozen surface.
30. the Forggensee 
In the distance you can see Neuschwanstein Castle. For us, the Forggensee, shimmering turquoise in the sun, is definitely one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria.
Let's move on to the last lake in our list: Lake Forggensee in Ostallgäu near Füssen is one of the largest lakes in Bavaria (and the largest reservoir in Germany in terms of surface area). Accordingly, the beautifully situated lake is well known. At weekends and especially during the summer holidays, the bathing places are often crowded.
The Halbinsel bathing area with a view of Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the top sights in the Bavarian Alps, is particularly popular with visitors.
In the winter months, the reservoir is almost completely drained. Then you can walk across the bottom of the lake and look for remnants of long-forgotten times. Many hundreds of years ago, there were even Roman settlements here. The highlight is the brick remains of a Roman estate.
The idyllically situated Forggensee with the adjacent Illasbergsee (the open-air swimming pool with a nice bar is something of an insider's tip for out-of-towners) is only completely filled between 1 June and 15 October.
Tips for your trip to Lake Forggensee
Pack your swimming trunks - Lake Forggensee is a bathing paradise in summer.
Sailing, surfing, kiting - all this is possible on Lake Forggensee.
Cycle around the lake (around 30 kilometres) and enjoy the views
Take a detour to nearby Neuschwanstein Castle
Book a trip on the steamboat
Sit in a lakeside café and enjoy the day
Lakes in Bavaria that you can walk around
Some of the lakes presented here are perfect for a leisurely Sunday stroll with the whole family. You can easily walk around the following lakes in a fantastic setting, sorted by length of walk:
Rießersee (1.1 kilometres)
Großer Arbersee (1.7 kilometres)
Fichtelsee (2.1 kilometres)
Hintersee (2.6 kilometres)
Barmsee (5.1 kilometres)
Alpsee (5.2 kilometres)
Frillensee (5.3 kilometres with access)
Rothsee (6.7 kilometres, optional 11.2 kilometres)
Hopfensee (6.8 kilometres)
Eibsee (6.9 kilometres)
Altmühlsee (11.5 kilometres)
Großer Brombachsee (14.9 kilometres, optional 24 kilometres)
Lake Kochel (15.5 kilometres)
The shortest hike takes you around the idyllically situated Rießersee lake near Garmisch-Partenkirchen. With a length of only one kilometre, the tour is even suitable for families with small children (see our excursion tips for families with children in Bavaria).
If you hike around the Großer Brombachsee south of Nuremberg, you will have to hike at least 15 kilometres. You can even extend the tour to 24 kilometres. The 16-kilometre hike around Lake Kochel in the Bavarian Alps is also worthwhile.
For a two-day lake hike in Bavaria, Lake Chiemsee is a good choice. If you want to hike around Bavaria's largest lake on foot, you'll have to cover around 58 kilometres. However, you can shorten the hike by taking a boat - or alternatively, you can cycle around Lake Chiemsee.
Insider tips: Top 10 unknown lakes in Bavaria 
There are around 430 lakes in Bavaria. In addition to the lakes presented here, there are of course many other beautiful lakes to explore - including real insider tips that are usually only known to the locals. With a little spirit of adventure, you will discover many great places.
Here is a list of ten beautiful yet unknown lakes in Bavaria that are not as crowded as the well-known bodies of water in the Free State.
Weicheringer Lake near Ingolstadt
Weißenstädter See in the Fichtelgebirge mountains
Steinberger See in the Upper Palatinate Lake District
Waginger See, the warmest bathing lake in Upper Bavaria
Luegsteinsee, beautiful natural bathing lake near Oberaudorf
Christlessee, fairytale mountain lake near Oberstdorf
Niedersonthofener See lake near Kempten in the Allgäu region
Obernzenner Lake between Rothenburg and Nuremberg
Ellertshäuser Lake in the Schweinfurt Rhön region
Nageler Lake in the Fichtel Mountains
Recommended travel guides for your Bavarian holiday
Bavaria has much more to offer than beautiful lakes. We highly recommend the following travel guides for your trip to Bavaria.
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Map with the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria at a glance
On our interactive map you can find Bavaria's most beautiful lakes at a glance:
Bavaria's largest lakes at a glance
Now you know the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria. Here are the largest lakes in Bavaria, sorted by surface area:
Lake Chiemsee (80 km²)
Lake Starnberg (56 km²)
Lake Ammersee (47 km²)
Lake Walchen (16 km²)
Lake Forggensee (15 km²)
Lake Tegernsee (8.9 km²)
Lake Brombach (8.7 km²)
Staffelsee (7.7 km²)
Lake Waginger (6.6 km²)
Lake Simssee (6.5 km²)
Lake Kochel (6.0 km²)
Ismaninger Reservoir (5.8 km²)
Königssee (5.2 km²)
Altmühlsee (4.5 km²)
Wörthsee (4.3 km²)
Sylvensteinsee (3.9 km²)
Rottachsee (2.8 km²)
Small Brombach Lake (2.5 km²)
Großer Alpsee (2.5 km²)
Lake Tachingen (2.4 km²)
Although Lake Constance has an area of 536 km², only a small part of it lies in Bavaria. We do not count the Oberpfälzer Seenland and the Eggstätt-Hemhofer-Seenplatte as the largest lakes because they consist of many small lakes.
Our Lakes FAQ
Here you will find the answers to all your questions about lakes and waters in Bavaria:
What is the most beautiful lake in Bavaria?
For many - including us - Lake Königssee in Berchtesgadener Land is the most beautiful lake in Bavaria.
Where is the Bavarian Caribbean?
Lake Eibsee near Garmisch-Partenkirchen at the foot of the Zugspitze is also called the Bavarian Caribbean because of its turquoise blue water and is also often compared to the Maldives.
Which lake in Bavaria has a sandy beach?
There are several lakes in Bavaria with a sandy beach for swimming. These include Lake Chiemsee, Lake Großer Brombachsee, Lake Constance, Lake Altmühlsee and Lake Guggenberg.
What are the most beautiful mountain lakes in Bavaria?
For us, the most beautiful mountain lakes in Bavaria are Königssee, Obersee, Alpsee, Eibsee, Hintersee, Walchensee, Schrecksee, Rießersee, Soiernseen and Rappensee.
What are the most beautiful lakes for children in Bavaria?
For families with children (for swimming and excursions), the Chiemsee, the Ammersee, the Starnberger See, the Große Brombachsee, the Tegernsee, the Bodensee, the Große Alpsee and the Rothsee are particularly suitable.
What are the warmest lakes in Bavaria?
The warmest lakes in Bavaria include Lake Waginger, Lake Chiemsee and Lake Großer Brombachsee.
Which is the largest lake in Bavaria?
The largest Bavarian lake is Lake Chiemsee with an area of around 80 quadtrat kilometres. Lake Constance (536 square kilometres) is only partly in Bavaria.
Recommended lakes articles on other travel blogs
On other travel blogs you can also find great articles about beautiful mountain lakes in the Alps:
Here we tell you about the most beautiful lakes in Tyrol
"The 11 most beautiful mountain lakes in the Alps for those who enjoy time out" on WellSpaPortal
"Lake love - The 5 most beautiful lakes in Austria" on Weltentkundler
"Königssee - A picturesque fairytale location" on Coeser
"Around Lake Chiemsee" on Naninka's Travel Spots
"Hiking around the Easter Lakes near Iffeldorf" on Hurra, draussen!
