Discover Alpine Lakes
Bavaria is home to more than 200 lakes, offering endless opportunities to experience the region’s natural beauty. From peaceful alpine lakes surrounded by towering mountain peaks to larger lakes with charming villages, walking paths, and inviting shorelines, each offers something unique to discover. Spend the day strolling along the water, swimming in crystal-clear lakes, enjoying a scenic boat ride, or simply relaxing and taking in the views. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape, Bavaria’s lakes are a beautiful way to experience the landscape, fresh air, and unforgettable scenery of southern Germany.
Please consult with Alpine Adventures with any questions pertaining to these lakes or for information on other Alpine lakes within the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area.
Explore our recommended lakes below, or click here to discover other options.
Other Guided Tours
Neuschwanstein Castle
Griesbräu Brewery
Ettal Monastery and Schnapps
Horse & Carriage Ride
Mittenwald
Berchtesgaden
Linderhof and Oberammergau
Dachau Concentration Camp
Winter Partnach Gorge
Night Sledding
Kids Night Out
Summer Partnach Gorge
Alpine Coaster Adventure
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Innsbruck-Swarovski World
Local Lakes
The lake is a beautiful emerald green color, noteworthy for any traveler. The Badersee is located approximately 6 kilometers from Garmisch. Row boating is available.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Follow your directions toward the Eibsee
• Turn left toward Eibsee, follow signs to Badersee
• Turn Left on the corner by the bus stop, right outside of Grainau
• The road will lead you to the parking lot - you will have to take a walking path to the Badersee (approx. 15 minutes)
At 3244 feet above sea level, this is Garmisch’s most popular lake for swimming. It is located 10 kilometers (10-minute drive) from Garmisch. The lake lies at the foot of the Zugspitze, and rises 6,600 feet above the lake surface. There is a minimal parking fee.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Turn Left out of the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
• Turn Left at the light onto Zugspitzstraße
• Turn Left toward Grainau (you will see signs toward the Zugspitzbahn
and the Eibsee)
• Stay on this road and it will take you straight to the Eibsee
The lake sits approximately 1,803 feet above sea level and stretches about 4 miles long and 2.5 miles wide, with depths reaching approximately 198 feet. Its peaceful shoreline and mountain views make it a wonderful destination for a relaxing day trip.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Turn left out of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
• Turn right at the traffic light onto Zugspitzstraße.
• Follow the main road through Garmisch-Partenkirchen until it connects with Route 2.
• Continue on Route 2 toward Munich, which connects with the A95 / E533.
• Take the exit toward Bad Tölz / Kochel am See.
• Follow signs toward Kochel am See and Kochelsee.
*Neuschwanstein Castle is offered as a tour
Alpsee and Schwansee are two scenic lakes located beside the famous Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles. Surrounded by forested mountains and Alpine scenery, the lakes offer beautiful views, peaceful walking paths, and opportunities for swimming during the warmer months. They are approximately 65 kilometers (1-hour drive) from Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Turn left out of the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
• Turn left at the light onto Zugspitzstraße
• Follow signs toward Grainau and Austria
• Continue through Grainau and cross into Austria toward Reutte
• Follow signs toward Füssen / Deutschland
• After crossing back into Germany, follow signs toward Schwangau / Königsschlösser (Royal Castles)
• Continue to Hohenschwangau and park in one of the designated visitor parking areas
• Alpsee is located directly beside Hohenschwangau; Schwansee is nearby and can be reached by walking trails
Peaceful mountain lake located approximately 2,562 feet above sea level. Surrounded by forest and Alpine scenery, the lake features a traditional inn and restaurant overlooking its beautiful waters. Swimming and boating are also available. Pflegersee is approximately a 50-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Garmisch.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Turn left out of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
• Turn right at the traffic light onto Zugspitzstraße.
• Continue onto Burgstraße.
• After passing the AGIP gas station, move into the left-turn lane.
• Follow signs toward the Werdenfels Ruins.
• Continue up the hill and follow the road to Pflegersee.
Scenic mountain lake located approximately 2,340 feet above sea level, nestled beneath the forested slopes of the Katzenstein and Riesserkopf. Just a pleasant 20-minute walk from Garmisch, the lake offers beautiful Alpine views and a peaceful setting. Boating, swimming, and dining are available.
TRAVEL BY CAR
• Turn right out of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
• Continue along St.-Martin-Straße.
• Turn right at the sign for Riessersee.
• Follow the road uphill to Riessersee.
Alpine Lakes – Know Before You Go
- Check the weather. Alpine weather can change quickly, even during the summer months.
- Swimming is at your own risk. Alpine lakes can remain very cold, even on warm days. Swim only where permitted and within your ability.
- Check local swimming and boating rules. Swimming, boating, paddleboarding, and other activities may be restricted in certain areas.
- Pack for the conditions. Bring layers, rain protection, sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring water and snacks. Food and beverage options vary by lake and may have seasonal or limited hours.
- Bring euros in cash. Some parking areas, restaurants, kiosks, and boat rentals may not accept cards.
- Expect limited parking. Popular lakes can fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive early when possible.
- Parking may require payment. Check posted parking regulations and payment options.
- Check seasonal availability. Boat rentals, restaurants, swimming areas, and other services may operate seasonally.
- Stay on designated paths. Help protect shorelines, wildlife, and sensitive Alpine environments.
- Dogs may have restrictions. Leash requirements and swimming rules for dogs vary by lake.
- Leave no trace. Take all trash with you and leave the lake as you found it.