Best lakes around Kirchsee are located in Upper Bavaria, approximately 30 kilometers south of Munich. This notable moor lake is part of the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor nature reserve, protecting its unique ecosystem. It is known for its excellent water quality and relatively warm moor water, making it suitable for swimming. The area offers broad views of the Alpine panorama and is surrounded by moor meadows.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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A beautiful lake surrounded by Preetz... from the shore you have a lovely view across the lake with the town church in the background.
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The Kirchsee is a lake in Holstein Switzerland. It is located in the Preetz municipal area in the Plön district. The original settlement area of Preetz and the town center are located on its western shore. Preetz Town Church, after which the lake is named, is also located there.
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When wet, very slippery...is also quite narrow
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The Kirchsee is a lake in Holstein Switzerland. It is located in the Preetz municipal area in the Plön district. The original settlement area of Preetz and the town center are located on its western shore. Preetz Town Church, after which the lake is named, is also located there.
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Very nice well maintained riverside path
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The jetty is manageable and only about 50 m long.
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You can eat delicious food here.
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Kirchsee is renowned for its unique moor landscape, part of the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor nature reserve. You'll find diverse shores, blooming meadows in summer, and broad views of the Alpine panorama, including peaks like Wendelstein on clear days. The lake itself is a beautiful moor lake.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. Visitors particularly enjoy View of Kirchsee and Preetz Town Church, which offers beautiful lake views and benches for relaxation. Another popular spot is Bench With a View of the Kirchsee and Preetz, providing a nice place to enjoy the scenery with views of the water and Preetz in the background.
Yes, swimming is highly recommended! Kirchsee is known for its excellent water quality, certified according to EU bathing water directives (German grade Güteklasse I). It's also fed by relatively warm moor water, making it ideal for swimming as early as April. Designated bathing areas are available on both the north and south shores.
Absolutely. The area is perfect for gentle walks, and a popular Kirchsee circular walk allows visitors to experience the diverse shores and surrounding nature. For more detailed routes, you can explore various hiking routes around Kirchsee, including easy options like the 'Wehrberg monument with a view – View of the church at Kirchsee loop from Preetz'.
Beyond hiking and swimming, you can rent watercraft like canoes or pedal boats at the Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee. The region also offers road cycling routes and running trails. In winter, when the lake freezes, it becomes a popular spot for ice skating and curling.
Yes, Kirchsee is very family-friendly. The designated bathing areas, calm waters, and gentle walking paths make it ideal for families. Highlights like the Boathouse Canoe Café & More offer watercraft rentals and a kiosk, adding to the family fun.
While the nature reserve status means some areas might have restrictions, generally, dogs are welcome on trails around Kirchsee. It's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in protected areas, and to check local signage for specific rules regarding bathing areas.
Kirchsee is beautiful year-round. For swimming, late spring through early autumn (April to September) is ideal due to the warm moor water. Summer offers blooming meadows and vibrant nature. In winter, if the lake freezes, it's popular for ice skating. Clear days in any season can offer stunning Alpine views.
Yes, the Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee offers home cooking from its kiosk restaurant. Additionally, the historic Kloster Reutberg monastery, located nearby, includes a well-known restaurant and brewery, making it a popular spot for refreshments after visiting the lake.
Kirchsee is approximately 30 kilometers south of Munich. The north shore offers amenities including a chargeable parking site, making it easily accessible by car. The south shore is quieter and can be reached by a 20-minute walk or bike ride from Kloster Reutberg.
Visitors consistently praise the picturesque nature, excellent water quality for swimming, and the tranquil atmosphere amidst moor meadows. The broad views of the Alpine panorama, the opportunity for gentle walks, and the proximity to Kloster Reutberg are also frequently highlighted as major attractions.


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