The most beautiful lakes in the region – part 1

The best time to visit one of the many small and large lakes is in the summer months. There’s something for everyone here with a range of sporting activities, interesting tours and opportunities to relax by the water. In this article, we would like to tell you about some of the best lakes which can be reached from the east of Munich and from the surrounding region.

Chiemsee

With its stunning panorama, numerous attractions and range of leisure activities, Chiemsee is Bavaria's largest lake and has plenty of variety to offer visitors.

If you love the water, there also many different waters sports. Take a ride in a paddleboat, rowboat or electric boot and enjoy the wonderful view. It’s sure to be an interesting experience. If that’s too relaxed for your liking, you can always try sailing, stand-up paddle boarding or surfing. And of course, Chiemsee is always good for taking a dip.

There are, however, also many activities you can enjoy on land. From strolls around Chiemsee to guided hikes and mountain tours in the Chiemgau Alps, visitors can connect with nature however they see fit.

And those seeking relaxation and beautiful scenery at Chiemsee will enjoy the cozy beer gardens, cafés and restaurants over a coffee and cake or a hearty meal.

Highlight: The Fraueninsel and Herreninsel islands are just a pleasant ferry ride away from several departure points. The islands offer many attractions, including galleries and museums, and are also perfect for casual strolls.

Schliersee

There’s no shortage of activities at Schliersee either. Come and cool off in one of the many swimming areas or at the beachside park on a warm summer’s day. Dog lovers can also bring their faithful companions with them to all of the beaches.

We recommend going on the 45-minute cruise in the “Schliersee III” in order to get the most of the lake. Electric boats, pedalos and rowboats as well as kayaks and boats from which you can swim are also available to rent, and are the perfect way to explore the lake. Kids and adults can also learn the basics of sailing or advance their skills at the sailing school at Schliersee. There is also a two-hour trial course available for those interested in getting started. Schliersee is also a fishing paradise, and the many jogging paths in the region for beginners and the more serious among us are ideal for runners, hikers and Nordic walkers/bladers.

And there are plenty of cafés, cozy restaurants and beer gardens right by the lake for all of your sustenance needs. Some of these establishments even offer a direct view of Schliersee and the surrounding mountains, making the Bavarian specialties, hearty meals, coffee and cake taste even better.

Highlight: The adventure path, roughly 500 yards long and on the western shore of Schliersee, features interactive stations in information boards, offering plenty of fun and games for kids.

Tegernsee

The magnificent Tegernsee is located east of Munich. In addition to hikes, Nordic walking and bike tours, visitors are also invited to enjoy the different boats or even a cruise around the lake. For divers there are also trial courses, advanced courses as well as guided dives available. A particularly good way to enjoy the view of the lake is by hot-air ballooning or paragliding. It is sure to be an unforgettable and breathtaking experience. A morning hot-air balloon ride across Tegernsee takes around 1.5 hours. A total of around four hours should be planned for the entire event. There are also trial courses and comprehensive training courses available for paragliding.

Highlight: Tegernsee is a wonderful place to go swimming. With multiple beaches, the Bad Wiessee water park, the Abwinkl outdoor swimming pool and the heated pools in Kreuth and Rottach-Egern, there are plenty of places to get your toes wet.

Simssee

Those seeking calm and relaxation will find it at Simssee and the surrounding region. Visitors can enjoy the diverse landscape around the lake by bicycle or sailboat, in the water, on a hike or by taking a leisurely stroll, or while climbing. The many restaurants and inns also provide the perfect place to just relax.

Highlight: The nearby spas offer a range of wellness programs for visitors to treat themselves to. And the relatively low level of tourism creates an air of calm among the picturesque landscape of Simssee.

The INDUWO “FreiRaum Vaterstetten” new building project is currently under construction east of Munich. It is well connected to many of the area’s popular lakes. It takes just under an hour to reach Tegernsee or Schliersee by car from Vaterstetten. Chiemsee and Simssee are also easily reachable in around an hour.

Have a good summer!

Your DEMOS Team