Lake Walchen (Walchensee)
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Walchensee - by Datingscout on Unsplash
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.
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
av. transport time:1h 30m
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo