Heading to the very south of Germany in Bavaria, just a few kilometers before reaching the border towards Austria, one of the country’s most beautiful natural spots is hiding at the foot of Mt. Zugspitze (2.962 m; Germany highest mountain). After following a small road from Grainau village through the dark forests, you will reach one of the most beautiful German lakes – probably the most beatiful lake of Germany – lake Eibsee.
The Eibsee was formed almost 4,000 years ago due to the retreat of a nearby glacier and got its final shape by one of the largest landslides in the Alpine region. Eight small islands embedded in crystal clear emerald-green shimmering mountain water define its uniqueness and natural beauty. That’s why lake Eibsee was often compared to a German version of the Caribbean.
Despite having a max. depth of 35 m, many quite shallow areas and bays make the shores appear in tropical blue and turquoise colors. Its clear and even drinkable water comes directly from two small streams feeding the lake with fresh water from the surrounding mountains.
A standup paddler’s paradise
The crystal clear water and the large number of small islands and bays makes this lake for the perfect spot for standup paddling or kayaking. The lake can be accessed nearby the parking space next to the hotel. If you don’t have you own SUP, you can also rent one there.
There is nothing more relaxing than bringing a (waterproof) bag filled with snacks and drinks for a nice picnic on your board and head on towards one of the small enchanted islands. While staying on one of the small islands or the small secret bays only accessible from the lake you can also enjoy a swim in the fresh mountain water.
The Eibsee Trail
Besides all the watersport activities, you can also take the Eibsee round course and walk the 7.5 km around the lake. Since the trail is rather flat, it can be easily done in approximately 2 h (depending on how many photo stops you will take). It can be accessed at the hotel, where you have to decide in which direction you will begin your walk. While the south part is just passing along the slopes, the north part of the path offers access to wonderful small bays and spectacular views to Mt. Zugspitze in the background. In the north east a small bridge connects Lake Eibsee with the smaller ‘Untersee’. This area offers also a good access for swimming.
Good to know
Due to the close proximity of the Zugspitze cable car, parking space can be quite limited especially during the warmer summer days. Therefore, it is highly recommended to be there already early in the morning. If you are taking public transportation, head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen station and take the bus from there. Most tourists in the area take the cable car to Zugspitze or walk the round course. Kayaks, SUPs or small pedal boats can be also rented near the hotel. During summer times, there is also a restaurant with a nice lake-view terrace offering food and drinks to the daytime visitors. Lake Eibsee can be perfectly combined on a multiple-day trip with hikes in the Zugspitze region, a visit of the Höllentalklamm gorge or Neuschwanstein castle. And the best part at last: there is no entrance fee 😉
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