If you’re like me, enjoying getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life to indulge in natural beauty, then I have some great news for you. I want to share my top 5 favorite lakes in Bavaria, which are just a couple of hours away and offer a perfect blend of tranquility and excitement. These beautiful lakes in Bavaria are my go-to places for self-care to escape everyday chaos. So, put on your hiking boots or grab a paddleboard, prepare a picnic basket, and let’s visit these gorgeous jewels of Bavaria.

The Top 5 Lakes in Bavaria to Escape A City Life and Unwind

1 – Eibsee: A Bavarian Gem

Of course, Eibsee has to be at the top of my list. Even before making Munich my home, I knew this lake would take a special place in my heart. This true Bavarian beauty is my favorite lake of all time (so far). Eibsee is tucked away at the base of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak. It is like something straight out of a postcard with picture-perfect turquoise waters surrounded by lush forests and gigantic mountains – a sight to behold.

The best way to experience Eibsee is by taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside trail or by paddling. The views are breathtaking, especially on a clear day when the sun dances off the surface of the water.

If you love getting your feet wet and crave a bit more excitement, rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the lake from a whole new perspective. Looking to cool off? Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters with mountain views – trust me, it’s an experience that will reset your energy instantly.

When you’re ready to get some food, there is a cozy lakeside restaurant where you can have a meal while soaking in the stunning scenery. But honestly, I prefer just to pack a lunch and enjoy a little picnic on Eibsee’s beach or one of the little side pocket shores that the lake has all around. My favorite spot to picnic and rest after an adventurous day before traveling home is a little rocky beach with a perfect view of Zugspitze Mountain.

Eibsee is one of the lakes in Bavaria I have visited the most so far (and I also take all my guests here all the time, haha). I come here any time of the year, mostly for walks and, in summer, for picnics, swims, and paddling. I like that you can never predict the color of the lake, as it changes like a chameleon. I love its beauty!

2 – Walchensee: The Bavarian Caribbean

Next, one of my favorite lakes in Bavaria is Walchensee, also known as the “Bavarian Caribbean” due to its clear, turquoise-green water.

This gorgeous lake, situated near the charming village of Kochel am See, offers a tranquil retreat from the chaos of everyday life, inviting you to unwind and reconnect with nature. Walchensee is my preferred destination for summer weekends for activities such as paddling, swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. It’s an excellent location to relax and enjoy the sunshine, especially if we have a hot day in town.

Nestled amongst the rugged beauty of the Bavarian Alps, this teal water lake is nothing short of spectacular. Its serene waters reflect the greenery that surrounds it, and the views from the lakeside are mesmerizing. The lake’s crystal-clear waters stretch out before you, surrounded by little rocky beaches and tranquil meadows, making it the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the sunshine. We, who live in Munich and around, are so lucky to have this lake nearby.

What I love about Walchensee most is that its real magic lies in the endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. No other holiday destinations are needed when you have Walchensee on your doorstep, and if you are into windsurfing, sailing, kayaking, paddling, or just lounging on the lakeside shores, there’s something here for everyone.

Also, I love that no motorboats are allowed here, so the water meets the requirements of class I water quality. And if you’ve had enough swimming and you’re feeling particularly adventurous, why not hike up to one of the nearby mountain peaks for a bird’s-eye view of the lake? The vistas are truly out of this world, offering a glimpse into the raw beauty of the Bavarian Alps.

3 – Alpsee: Where Nature and History Meet

The third one on my “Favorite Lakes in Bavaria” list is Alpsee, a lake located southeast of the small town of Füssen in the Ostallgäu district. Although it has just under five kilometers of shoreline, it is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, making it a picturesque destination. This crystal-clear lake is also full of history, with Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles nearby, giving it a storybook-like feel.

Alpsee is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, and paddling. When you’re ready to take a break, there are plenty of cozy lakeside cafes where you can relax and enjoy the lakeside atmosphere or have a picnic on the shore of the lake to take in the stunning views.

While Alpsee may not be the best choice if you’re looking to sunbathe or just lay around on the shore, as the main beach can feel touristy due to visitors coming to see the castles, that’s not to say that more private beaches cannot be found if you move further. I haven’t explored this lake enough yet, so if you know of any good spots, I would love to hear about them!

4 – Königssee

Prepare to be awestruck as we make our way to the majestic Königssee, often referred to as the “King’s Lake.” Tucked away amidst the towering cliffs of the Bavarian Alps, this glacial lake lies just south of the town of Berchtesgaden, in a deep cut that is surrounded by sheer limestone mountains within the Berchtesgaden National Park.

Königssee is one of my favorite lakes in Bavaria I like to visit in autumn, when the trees burst with colors of gold, orange, and red, creating a stunning and picturesque view. When the wind blows, the rustling and dancing of the leaves add even more magic to the scene, making it a natural painting that is truly incredible.

Königssee offers a wide range of activities, including boat tours and kayaking excursions on the lake, which allow you to explore its pristine waters and stunning shoreline. Moreover, there are hiking trails that wind around the lake and into the surrounding mountains. These hiking trails offer breathtaking views and opportunities for wildlife watching. You can also find some of the best scenic viewpoints around the shore of Obersee Lake, another one of the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria, which is a perfect spot for enjoying a meal amidst the natural beauty of Königssee.

There are many things to do in Königssee, such as walking around St. Bartholomew’s, hiking to Obersee Lake and Röthbach Waterfall, or simply swimming in the lake. However, the real highlight of Königssee for me is the boat trip across its shimmering surface. As you glide along the tranquil waters, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the scenery, including the iconic Obersee and the towering Watzmann mountain. It’s the scenery that is truly majestic and will leave you speechless – trust me, I speak from personal experience.

5 – Tegernsee

Last but certainly not least on my list of “Favorite Lakes in Bavaria” is Tegernsee – a true Bavarian gem nestled amongst the rolling hills of the Tegernsee Valley. I call Tegernsee “Summer Fun” lake, as this sparkling lake is surrounded by charming villages, lush forests, and picturesque mountains, making it the perfect destination for a peaceful but full-of-things-to-do getaway.

One of the best ways to experience Tegernsee is by taking a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade, where you can soak in the stunning views and breathe in the fresh mountain air or just lay on the beach. And if you love water as much as I do, why not rent a paddleboard, catamaran, or kayak and explore the crystal-clear waters at your own pace?

But Tegernsee is not only for swimming and watersports. There are many beautiful hiking and biking trails to explore the surroundings, offering stunning views and opportunities to unwind. Picnic areas and scenic viewpoints are scattered throughout the area, providing perfect spots for enjoying a meal while taking in the natural beauty of Tegernsee.

Also, Tegernsee isn’t just about outdoor adventure – it’s also a haven for foodies and culture enthusiasts. Be sure to sample some of the local delicacies at one of the lakeside restaurants or breweries, and don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Tegernsee Abbey, which dates back to the 8th century.

Tegernsee is one of those lakes in Bavaria where you never get short of things to do. There’s always something for everyone, whether you are into watersports, love keeping your feet on the ground, like adrenaline, or prefer to take it easy. There is a vast variety of activities, including cultural attractions, local events, festivals, and relaxing spas and wellness centers.

As with many lakes in Bavaria, they can be a little crowded. To avoid that, I always walk or drive a little bit further from the popular areas and find little beaches where I can enjoy more privacy and peace. Honestly, most often, those little places turn out much cuter and cozier, where I can enjoy serenity, journal, meditate, and escape from busy city life.

In conclusion, the lakes in Bavaria offer a diverse array of natural beauty and recreational opportunities, each with its own unique charm. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a place to relax and unwind, these tranquil escapes are sure to captivate your senses and leave you longing to return time and time again.

This post summarizes my favorite lakes in Bavaria. However, I plan to describe each lake in a separate post to provide a comprehensive travel guide with more details, such as how to get there, things to do, and my favorite spots to run away from the city. Subscribe so you do not miss out on upcoming posts.

P.S. Also, I think that the sixth lake is coming up here on my “Favorite Lakes in Bavaria” list. The Lake Hintersee in Ramsau is next on the lakes to visit, and I think it is going to be magical, so it’ll have to join this list. Stay tuned!