Walchensee is one of Germany's deepest and largest Alpine lakes - a striking turquoise-green expanse of water framed by the forested peaks of the Bavarian Prealps, just 75 km south of Munich. Its exceptional clarity, reaching visibility of 8 to 10 metres, makes it a magnet for swimmers, sailors and hikers alike.

The lake sits in a mountain basin at 801 m above sea level, ringed by the Herzogstand-Heimgarten massif, the Jochberg and the long ridge of the Altlacher Hochkopf. In summer, strong thermal winds build up over the sunny southern slopes, making Walchensee a favourite spot for windsurfers, kitesurfers and sailors. In autumn and spring, low-lying fog from the foothills sometimes spills over the Kesselberg pass and drifts across the lake, creating a striking atmosphere. In winter, the lake rarely freezes completely due to wind and currents.

How to get there

• Kesselberg pass (between Walchensee and Kochelsee) - reached via road B11, easy by car
• Herzogstandbahn cable car to Fahrenbergkopf, then a 30-45 minute walk to the summit of Herzogstand with views over the lake

Good to know

• Motorboats are banned on the lake
• The island of Sassau is a protected nature reserve and closed to visitors year-round
• About 2.5 km of the southern shore is developed for swimming and recreation

Several wrecks rest on the lake bed, including at least three World War II-era aircraft, making it a popular destination for divers. The lake also inspired painter Lovis Corinth, who created more than 60 works featuring its distinctive scenery.