Königssee, Bavaria
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Königssee - by Martin Falbisoner (CC BY-SA 4.0)
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Description
The Königssee is a natural lake in Germany's south-eastern Bavarian Alps, near the border with Austria and for the most part within the Berchtesgaden National Park. Its shape is reminiscent of a fjord: 7.7km long and 1.7km across for a total area of 5.2 km2 and, with a max. depth of 190m, it the country's 3rd deepest lake. The area is popular with hikers, the quality of its echo (bouncing off the surrounding rock walls) and for its boat tours. The picturesque St. Bartholomä church is located on a peninsula about halfway down the western lake shore. This Roman Catholic pilgrimage church can only be reached by ship or trail.
Access & Transport
The closest main city is Salzburg, Austria - 50mins / 30km away across the border. Munich is 2h15 / 160km away. It is possible to reach by train + bus via Freilassing and Berchtesgaden but this is time consuming. Some companies also seem to offer direct tourist bus services from Munich but not in a consistent fashion, so it is worth looking into it.
Instructions & Recommendations
Check the boat tours schedule ahead of time - advance booking is likely to be required during the peak summer season. Other nearby activities include the Eagle's Nest (Das Kehlsteinhaus).
Environmental & Social
This is a green activity unless you are planning to use a motorboat. Revenues from tourism help the rural economy but, in this case, there is a clear issue of over-commercialization
Conclusion
Königssee is without a doubt one of the most charming lakes in Southern Germany; on a clear day its clear waters and mountains rising almost vertically around it are a sight to behold. The problem though is the bucket list phenomenon and photo sharing frenzy has thrown more tourists at the area than it could handle during the summer. Our recommendation: avoid July & August and, if that is not possible, choose another lake.
Key positive
Gorgeous scenery
Plenty to see and do in the region for outdoor enthusiasts
Key negative
Overly touristic and commercialized
Time consuming to get to without a car
Suitability
Visitors with reduced mobility will be able to get near the lakeshore and on some of the boats
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:2h 15m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo