Best lakes around Ellmau are found in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, a region characterized by its mountainous landscape and diverse natural water bodies. The area offers a variety of lakes, from pristine mountain lakes within nature reserves to family-friendly bathing lakes. These lakes provide opportunities for swimming, walking, and enjoying mountain reflections. The region's geography contributes to the distinct features of each lake.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
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The water flows from the lake via the approximately 500-meter-long Walchseebach stream on the eastern side into the Weißenbach stream. This stream, in turn, flows via the Kohlenbach stream into the Großache stream, which empties into Lake Chiemsee near Grabenstätt.
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Beautiful lake with numerous bathing spots and benches that invite you to linger.
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A beautiful wooden bridge to cross the Walchsee estuary.
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Great lake with numerous bathing spots 👍 it's worth driving around it, superbly laid out paths
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A bridge that somehow always has a nice atmosphere when you pass it.
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Excellent for a refreshing swim in summer
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Always a nice destination. You can drive or hike around the lake.
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In rainy weather, the Walchsee with all its clouds and mist is also beautiful to see.
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For swimming and relaxation, Hintersteiner See is highly recommended. It's known for its crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water and a public bathing beach on the northern shore. Another excellent option is Walchsee South Shore, which offers a refreshing swim with a stunning mountain panorama. Both lakes provide amenities for a comfortable day by the water.
Yes, several lakes cater well to families. Goinger Badesee is a natural lake with a white sandy beach, a shallow bay for children, a 100-meter open-air slide, and a large playground. Ahornsee Söll also offers a vibrant atmosphere for families, featuring a children's area with a sand playground, trampoline, and a diving platform.
The lakes around Ellmau are set amidst breathtaking natural scenery. You can expect to see pristine mountain lakes like Hintersteiner See within the Wilder Kaiser nature reserve, offering reflections of the mountains in its clear waters. Other lakes, such as Pillersee, are emerald-green natural bathing lakes at the foot of the Loferer Steinberge mountains, with parts designated as nature reserves. Many areas feature forests, meadows, and panoramic mountain views.
Yes, many lakes offer accessible walking paths. For instance, a path encircles Hintersteiner See; the northern section is asphalted and suitable for strollers, providing stunning panoramic views. Pillersee also has a flat circular path ideal for walks, and the area around Walchsee South Shore is easy to circumnavigate on foot or by bike.
Beyond swimming and sunbathing, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Hintersteiner Lake – Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser loop' or 'View of the Wilder Kaiser – Kaisergebirge loop'. For running, trails such as the 'Goinger Bach loop' are available. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the Cycling around Ellmau, Road Cycling Routes around Ellmau, and Running Trails around Ellmau guides.
Astbergsee, idyllically positioned on the Goinger Astberg at an altitude of approximately 1200m, is cherished for its stunning panoramic views of the Wilder Kaiser, which are often reflected in its waters. This makes it a popular spot for photography and peaceful relaxation amidst fresh mountain air.
Yes, at several lakes, you can rent water sports equipment. For example, at Hintersteiner See, you can rent Stand-Up Paddling (SUP) boards. At Pillersee, visitors can rent rowing boats, pedal boats, kayaks, and SUP boards, providing various options for enjoying the water.
Yes, you'll find dining options near many of the lakes. Hintersteiner See has restaurants on or near the lake, and a public bathing beach on its northern shore is equipped with a kiosk. Pillersee also offers various gastronomy options along its shore, ensuring you can grab a bite or a drink during your visit.
Water temperatures vary by lake. Goinger Badesee can reach a pleasant 24 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for swimming. However, mountain lakes like Pillersee, fed by underground springs, tend to be cooler, with temperatures rarely exceeding 19°C, offering a refreshing experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning mountain panoramas, the crystal-clear water quality, and the diverse recreational opportunities. Many enjoy the refreshing swims, the well-maintained walking paths, and the family-friendly amenities. The reflection of the Wilder Kaiser mountains in lakes like Hintersteiner See is a frequently mentioned highlight.
While popular lakes like Hintersteiner See can get busy, exploring options like Astbergsee might offer a more tranquil experience. Located at a higher altitude, it's cherished for peaceful relaxation and stunning views, often providing a quieter atmosphere away from the main bathing areas.
While specific public transport routes to every lake can vary, many popular destinations in the Wilder Kaiser region, including some lake areas, are generally accessible by local bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on reaching specific lakes like Hintersteiner See or those in Söll and Going.


Still not found your perfect lake around Ellmau? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.