Bavaria is Germany’s largest state, located in the south of the country. It’s home to many green spaces, breathtaking lakes charming cities like Munich, Nuremberg and Augsburg that are very popular for tourists. However, if you’re looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some magnificent scenery, Bavarian Lakes are for you.

Below we comprised a list of five different lakes in Bavaria that make for a great holiday, whether it be a quick, romantic trip to summer, family holiday.

Ammersee

The Ammersee is the third largest lake in Bavaria and is only a 45 kilometres train journey or drive from Munich. Whether you visit for a day or stay for a few days, you’ll have plenty of time to bathe in the clear water. Aside from bathing, many choose to take out a pedalo, fish or book onto a steamboat ride, especially if the weather is warm.

There are also plenty of cycling and hiking trails, of all different levels, dotted around the lake. Families with children can seek nearby wildlife, and avid cyclers can challenge themselves. Keep an eye out for the stone figures called ‘the bathers’ on the jetty in Schondorf.

Chiemsee

The largest lake in Bavaria is the Chiemsee, also referred to as the Bavarian Sea because of its sea-like tides and Tethys Sea origin. On arrival, you’ll notice three islands situated in the centre of the lake. Ferries operate regularly, taking visitors to and from the mainland to each of these small islands.

This place is ideal for tourists who want to de-stress and enjoy a weekend retreat, surrounded by glistening waters and endless green spaces. Water sports are organised for more adventurous travellers, while others make their way to the nearest town, Prien am Chiemsee, via the Chiemsee railway. Discover local restaurants and cafés serving up tasty dishes before exploring the Herrenchiemsee New Palace.

Tegernsee

An hour away from Munich is the beautiful Tegernsee Lake, where you’ll find swans floating about and pebbles on the shore, glistening in the sun. Sit back, relax on the beach and watch cyclists climb up the mountains in the distance. To explore the lake for yourself, hop on a motorboat or rowing boat and take in the scenery which looks like it’s taken inspiration from a children’s storybook.

Located at the bottom of the lake is the municipality of Rottach-Egern, teeming with traditional Bavarian buildings, decorated with stunning murals, lattice balconies and pots of colourful flowers. You’ll want to keep your camera close to you to snap these picturesque homes.

Kochelsee

With mountains in the back and the spectacular lake in front, it should come as no surprise that Kochelsee draws many artists and sports enthusiasts to its grounds. The German painter, Franz Marc called this area his home for many years and continued to paint this landscape in his expressionistic ways. You can see his masterpieces in the Franz Marc Museum located on the east side of the lake.

During the summertime, you’ll find the lake covered in sailing boats, windsurfers and kayaks and the beach lined with sunbathers and people paddling in the shallow waters. Go for a walk around sunset to watch the sun fall behind the mountains and turn the sky a blend of pinks and oranges.

Königssee

If you’re looking for a unique experience, book an electric boat ride across Lake Königssee to see the sheer rock faces create identical reflections in the waters below. The surrounding Berchtesgaden National Park is the perfect place for some quiet, immersed in lush, green forestry. Paddleboats are also available should you wish to get up close and personal with nature.

The water’s emerald green colour creates a mystifying atmosphere, making this a glorious and peaceful setting. Watch out for the bubbles of fish coming up to the water’s surface and listen to the songbirds echo over the mountains. This small slice of paradise attracted many painters, so much so the bay on the northern tip of the lake, is named Painter’s Corner.

Bavaria is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to see some of Germany’s most breathtaking lakes and their charming towns. Call us on 0800 988 3369 or contact us via our website and we’ll tailor-make your holiday to include the destinations you wish to visit.