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Lake Walchen (Walchensee)

Seestraße, Kochel am See, Bayern

Description

Walchensee is one of Germany's largest (16km2) and deepest alpine lakes. It is located in the middle of the Bavarian Alps about 800m above sea level and fills a tectonic valley, which explains its significant depth (av. 82m and max 192m). It is surrounded by wooded mountains, including the Herzogstand–Heimgarten group at 1,731m -1,790m, which offers visitors hiking opportunities from where they can enjoy panoramic views of the turquoise-green coloured lake (due to the high calcium carbonate content of the water). Leisure activities include sailing, windsurfing and even scuba diving (there are some wrecks in the lake, including WW2 aircrafts). From spring to fall there is also a gondola lift (the Herzogstandbahn) that can transport visitors up the Fahrenberg.

Access & Transport

The lake is a few kms south of the town of Kochel and 85km south of Munich on the A95 (exit 10 Murnau towards Schlehdorf and Kochel). There are regional trains running from Munich to Kochel (RB66) and then bus #9608 runs from there to Walchensee.

Instructions & Recommendations

Many activities and properties close during the winter.

Meta review

The lake and surrounding mountains get rave reviews from visitors who enjoy the uncrowded atmosphere, amazing vistas and many hiking trails - including from the kid's friendly Herzogstanbahn cable car. According to travellers there, this is one of the best spots in the Bavarian Alps and even a simple stroll along the lakeshore with a lunch in a local restaurant or a picnic is a wonderful way to spend the day.

Environmental & Social

This is a green activity Revenues from tourism help the rural economy

Conclusion

The Lake Walchen offers travellers a mostly pristine environment with a blend of nautical activities, a beautiful shoreline and hiking trails with breath-taking views. One of the best options for a day out from Munich or a regional road trip.

Key positive

Gorgeous scenery

Family friendly destination

Key negative

None

Suitability

No restrictions

About this Rating

TYPE

Desktop

RESEARCHED IN

June 2024

PROVIDER

Koreval

Included Items
None
Timing
Duration of visit
"Closure" reflects the winter conditions, but the lake remains accessible to visitors

av. transport time:1h 30m

est. visit time:4h

Sunlight based

Sunrise / early morningOk

MorningOk

Lunch timeOk

AfternoonOk

Sunset / eveningOk

Night – bef. midnightNo

Night – aft. midnightNo

Pricing
Free

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