Top 20 Lakes around Riegsee
Best lakes around Riegsee are found in a charming Bavarian municipality, known for its picturesque bodies of water. The region's lakes are recognized for their excellent water quality and mountain views. These lakes are among the warmest bathing lakes in Upper Bavaria, offering diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, each providing unique features and activities.
Best lakes around Riegsee
- The most popular lakes is Great Ostersee, a lake that is the largest…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Herzogstand summit and views of Walchensee and Kochelsee
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Heimgarten Summit
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The Heimgarten is not as frequented as the Herzogstand (mountain railway!), But because the ridge …
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View of Walchensee and Kochelsee from Jochberg
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Lake Staffelsee
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Great Ostersee
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Tips from the Community
Anyone who has hiked the 6 km up here can fortify themselves here. Awesome view included.
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Beautiful path along the southern side of the Staffelsee
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Great view of the foothills of the Alps, the lakes and the Alps... not nearly as busy as on the Herzogstand 🤩 Super nice rustic hut.
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The Osterseen are a group of bodies of water south of Lake Starnberg in the Weilheim-Schongau district in Upper Bavaria. The southern and central Osterseen with the Großer Ostersee belong to the municipality of Iffeldorf, the northern Osterseen from the Stechsee and the Frechensee to the municipality of Seeshaupt. Iffeldorf is around five kilometers by road northwest of Penzberg, 20 km southeast of the district town of Weilheim and 50 km south-southwest of Munich city centre. The 20 larger individual lakes have a total area of around 225 hectares and an average depth of a good nine metres. The Kleiner Gröbensee and about 15 unnamed smaller lakes, each with an area of only a few hundred square meters, are not included here, seven of which are already heavily silted up. The Osterseen and the silting-up zone bordering to the west are located in the landscape protection area "Protection of the Osterseen and their surroundings in the communities of Frauenrain, Iffeldorf and Seeshaupt". The area received this protection status as early as 1955. Since 1981 there has also been the Osterseen nature reserve with an area of 1,083 hectares. About a third of this is on the surface of the water bodies, 494 hectares are high, low and intermediate moors, 172 hectares consist of semi-natural mixed forest. Around five percent of the Osterseen landscape consists of riparian regions, silted-up areas and meadows. The nature reserve is divided into three parts, which are separated from each other by the train line of the Kochelseebahn and the state road 2063: Südliche Osterseen, Nordliche Osterseen and Frechensee. In May 1997, the Osterseen were reported to Brussels as a SPA (European bird sanctuary) and FFH area according to the Fauna-Flora-Habitat Directive. In addition to the Eggstätt-Hemhofer lake district and the Seeoner lakes, the area is the largest and most structured icefall landscape in the Bavarian Alpine foothills. The complex of boggy and nutrient-poor lakes, low, transitional and raised bogs alongside bog and swamp forests with its extraordinary diversity of species in the networked habitats, biotopes and ecological niches is of Europe-wide importance for basic scientific research. The beauty of this landscape has always attracted artists. The painter Georg Schrimpf in particular, a main representative of the New Objectivity art movement, created several oil paintings of the Osterseen in the 1930s. Source: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osterseen
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The cycling and hiking trail at Lake Staffelsee is worth a trip at any time of the year. Not suitable for racing bikes.
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Nice path for walks, hikes. Also suitable for MTB and cyclocrossers. Due to its proximity to the Murnau train station, this path is often the starting point for trips around the lake.
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A beautiful lake clean not overcrowded fits
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Riegsee are known for being warm for swimming?
The Riegsee itself and Lake Staffelsee are both recognized as some of Bavaria's warmest bathing lakes, making them ideal for swimming and water sports. The Froschhauser See is also a peaceful swimming lake.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Riegsee?
Yes, the region offers numerous hiking trails. For instance, there's a popular circular hiking trail around the Riegsee, approximately 10 km long, offering direct access to the shore and scenic mountain panoramas. You can also find various routes for gravel biking, cycling, and MTB trails that explore the lake areas and surrounding landscapes.
What unique natural features can be found at the lakes around Riegsee?
The Riegsee is known for a unique 'floating island' that can detach during heavy rains. Lake Staffelsee is notable for having the most islands among lakes in the Alpine foothills. The Great Ostersee is the largest of 24 lakes in a glacial area, offering a varied landscape of wide views, glittering waters, and quiet forests.
Are there family-friendly activities available at the lakes?
Absolutely. The Great Ostersee features a small beach perfect for families to swim and relax. The Riegsee area also has the Riegsee Alpaca Farm, offering a unique experience for all ages. Many lakes, including Lake Staffelsee, are suitable for swimming, rowing, and sailing, which are great family activities.
What kind of views can I expect when visiting the lakes?
The lakes in the Riegsee region offer stunning mountain panoramas, with magnificent views of the Estergebirge and Ammergau Alps. From viewpoints like Herzogstand summit, Heimgarten Summit, and Jochberg, you can enjoy expansive vistas over lakes like Walchensee, Kochelsee, and Starnberger See, as well as the wider Alpine chain.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Riegsee?
Visitors particularly appreciate the warm, crystal-clear waters of lakes like Riegsee and Staffelsee for swimming and water sports. The beautiful shorelines, diverse recreational activities, and the stunning mountain views are also frequently highlighted. The tranquil nature reserves, such as the one surrounding Froschhauser See, are valued for quiet relaxation.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers various lakeside establishments, including beer gardens, which provide great views. While specific cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options are not detailed in the guide, the presence of popular lakes like Riegsee and Staffelsee suggests that amenities for visitors are available in the surrounding municipalities.
Are there any specific lakes known for water sports?
Both the Riegsee and Lake Staffelsee are excellent for various water sports, including swimming, fishing, sailing, and surfing, thanks to their warm waters and suitable conditions.
What is the Froschhauser See like?
The Froschhauser See is nestled within a nature reserve and is described as a peaceful swimming lake. It's an ideal spot for those seeking quiet relaxation, enjoying a book by the water, or simply listening to the birds. There is a designated bathing area for visitors.
How can I explore the lakes by boat?
On Lake Staffelsee, visitors can enjoy boat trips on the MS Seehausen, which offers panoramic views of the Alpine chain from its deck. Other lakes like Riegsee also offer opportunities for rowing and sailing with personal or rented boats.
Are there any lakes suitable for a quiet, relaxing experience?
Yes, the Froschhauser See, located within a nature reserve, is particularly noted for its tranquil and relaxing environment. It's a peaceful swimming lake perfect for quiet contemplation or enjoying nature.
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