Clear water, gentle waves, and a view of the mountains – Bavarian lakes are among the most beautiful summer vacation destinations in Germany. For swimming, boating, hiking, or simply relaxing: Camping by the water in Bavaria is a true dream – and often closer than you think.
Below, we present what we consider to be the most beautiful lakes in Bavaria . Tip: Using the campsite guidance system, you can see on the map which campsites are located directly on the lake.
1. A classic: Lake Chiemsee
Often referred to as the "Bavarian Sea," Lake Chiemsee impresses with its size, diversity, and natural beauty: Lake Chiemsee is perfect for water sports, excursions to Fraueninsel or Herreninsel , and relaxing days on the shore.
Find campsites around Lake Chiemsee
Forggensee, Allgäu
4. Allgäu mountain scenery included: At Lake Forggensee
Located at the foot of Neuschwanstein Castle, Lake Forggensee offers a stunning panorama of the Allgäu mountains . The lake is perfect for cycling, boating, and relaxing days swimming. Due to its size, sailing is also very popular.
Discover your camping holiday around Lake Forggensee
2. Between rocks and history: Lake Kochel
Just about an hour's drive south of Munich lies Lake Kochel —framed by the Alpine foothills and a protected reed belt. The water is fresh and of excellent quality, perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day.
The sunbathing lawn near Kochel is especially popular with bathers. Water sports enthusiasts can also rent SUPs, rowboats, or pedal boats. The rocky path along the steep western shore is also very beautiful.
Discover your camping holiday at Lake Kochel
3. Almost Caribbean - pure nature and turquoise water: Lake Walchensee
Lake Walchensee is considered one of the deepest and clearest lakes in Germany. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, next to the aforementioned Kochelsee, it is the ideal summer destination for both those seeking peace and quiet and those seeking active vacations.
Walchensee, Upper Bavaria
5. Experience real Upper Bavaria: At Lake Tegernsee
Another classic among the Bavarian lakes is Lake Tegernsee. This lake embodies Bavarian hospitality paired with a touch of luxury. Here, rustic tradition meets fine dining, wellness, and clear mountain air. The entire Tegernsee region is well-developed and ideal for day trips or hikes.
Tegernsee, Upper Bavaria
6. Natural idyll and royal castles close by: Bannwaldsee
Not far from the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, northeast of Füssen, lies Lake Bannwald , a tranquil natural paradise. The lake is considered a nature reserve and is surrounded by gentle shores, blooming meadows, and paths with stunning views – perfect for swimming, strolling, or simply relaxing.
This makes the lake ideal for campers who want to combine nature and culture .
7. Bavaria's warmest bathing lake: Lake Waginger
Lake Waginger See in the Rupertiwinkel region is considered one of the warmest bathing lakes in Bavaria. Around the lake, you'll find large lawns, family-friendly swimming areas, bike paths, and a picturesque hilly landscape.
Excellent water quality and a mild climate await you – perfect for a relaxing nature holiday. Another plus: the shores are largely freely accessible and ideal for walks or leisurely picnics by the lake.
Click here for camping at Lake Waginger.
Königsee, Upper Bavaria
8. Majestic and unique: Lake Königssee at the foot of the Watzmann
Lake Königssee in Berchtesgaden National Park is one of Germany's most impressive lakes – and with good reason: It lies fjord-like, nestled between steep cliffs and features crystal-clear, emerald-green waters. Particularly famous is the world-famous pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomew , which is only accessible by boat.
Hike, marvel, pause – Königssee is both tranquil and impressive. Nearby you'll also find highlights such as the Malerwinkel , the Röthbach Falls (Germany's highest waterfall) , and the Kehlsteinhaus.
Königssee also lies at the foot of the mighty Watzmann massif. At 2,713 meters, the Watzmann is not only the highest mountain in the Berchtesgadener Land region, but also one of the highest peaks in Germany. For experienced hikers, the Königsetappe is ideal: a challenging tour past the Watzmann Cirque , via the Watzmannhaus , to the main summit. After the descent, you'll return to Königssee – and can then enjoy a relaxing return trip by boat.
If that's a bit too alpine for you, you can also experience the Watzmann on easier paths - for example on a hike to the Watzmannhaus or on the Malerwinkel circular trail with fantastic views of the summit and lake.
Find campsites near Lake Königssee here.
9. With a view of the Allgäu mountain idyll: At the Alpsee
Picturesquely nestled between hills and mountains, the clear shimmering water and the spectacular backdrop of Lake Alpsee in the Allgäu region sparkle - one of the most romantic lakes in Bavaria.
A well-developed circular path for a leisurely stroll with views of the water and the mountain backdrop runs directly along the shore. Pedal boats and similar equipment can also be rented on site.
Alpsee, Allgäu. Photo: erlebe.bayern - Gert Krautbauer
Extra tip: Active holidays on or in the cool water
Finally, here's an idea if you're looking for a bit more action by the water: Bavaria also offers a lot of gorges, caves and waterfalls that are perfect for a cool summer hike or, if you really want to jump into the cool water, a rafting or canyoning adventure .
Here are two interesting articles on this topic:
We wish you lots of fun in or on the water and a great summer!
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