Eibsee
A breathtaking alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning views of the Zugspitze.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking
Eibsee
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its crystal-clear turquoise waters and stunning views of the Zugspitze.
"The best and cleanest lake in Germany! The water is a bit cold due to the fact that it is next to the peak of Germany."
🎯 Arrive Early to Park
Parking is scarce! Get there before 9 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The 9km loop trail is mostly flat but requires good footwear for a comfortable walk.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Eibsee Loop Trail
Around the lake
A 9km flat trail offering diverse, breathtaking views of the crystal-clear water and Zugspitze. Perfect for a relaxing walk or a photo opportunity.

Crystal Clear Waters
Lake Eibsee
Experience some of the cleanest and most pristine lake water in Germany, inviting for a refreshing dip on warmer days.

Boating on the Lake
Eibsee Boat Rental
Rent pedal boats, rowboats, or stand-up paddleboards to explore the lake's nooks and crannies at your own pace.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Early Bird Gets the Best Views
Parking & Transportation Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early to Park
Parking is scarce! Get there before 9 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The 9km loop trail is mostly flat but requires good footwear for a comfortable walk.
📸 Capture the Reflections
The lake offers stunning reflections of the Zugspitze, especially on calm mornings.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there's a restaurant, options are limited. Mobile toilets are available on the hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early to Park
Parking is scarce! Get there before 9 AM, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The 9km loop trail is mostly flat but requires good footwear for a comfortable walk.
📸 Capture the Reflections
The lake offers stunning reflections of the Zugspitze, especially on calm mornings.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
While there's a restaurant, options are limited. Mobile toilets are available on the hike.
🛶 Book Boats in Advance
Guided boat tours require online booking; rowboats can often be rented on-site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Eibsee is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and the scenic hiking trail. Visitors consistently recommend arriving early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere. While the lake is stunning, some find the limited dining options and parking challenges to be minor drawbacks.
"Beautiful, I recommend to go very early since the lake gets incredibly crowded from 9 a.m.
The walk doesn't have lots of climbing, mainly a flat trail with amazing views.
A relaxing walk and dogs enjoy it."
Marta Kõll
"Without a doubt, the best and cleanest lake in Germany! The water is a bit cold due to the fact that it is next to the peak of Germany🇩🇪🗻. Definitely go for a round tour around the lake, you will see variety of amazing views🌅 It might be overcrowded over the weekend."
ÖZGÜR FIRAT ÖZKAN
"Very beautiful. The water was warm on a chilly day. The walk around the lake is 9km. Very pure water, beautiful sights. Nice place to relax and take photos"
Jagoda Megwa
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take the regional train (RB6) from Munich to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Garmisch, you might need to take a bus or taxi to Eibsee. Driving is also an option, but parking is very limited and fills up fast.
Yes, there are bus connections to Eibsee, particularly from Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It's advisable to check local bus schedules in advance, as they can vary.
The train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a good start. From there, local buses or taxis can take you to Eibsee. Be prepared for potential crowds on public transport.
Eibsee is located directly at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany's highest peak. You can see the Zugspitze from Eibsee, and cable cars to the Zugspitze depart from near the lake.
Yes, Eibsee is accessible in winter, and the lake can freeze over, allowing you to walk on the ice. However, some activities might be limited, and road conditions should be checked.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There are no entrance tickets required to visit Eibsee itself or to walk the loop trail. However, you will need to pay for parking if you arrive by car.
Eibsee is a natural lake and is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. The visitor facilities, like the restaurant and boat rentals, will have specific operating hours.
Parking fees apply at Eibsee. The exact cost can vary, but it's a necessary expense if you're driving. Arriving early is crucial as parking lots fill up quickly.
Guided boat tours on Eibsee typically require advance online booking. For rowboats or pedal boats, you can often rent them directly at the lake.
No, the hiking trails around Eibsee are free to access. The main costs associated with visiting are parking and any activities like boat rentals.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning offers the best light for capturing the serene beauty and reflections of the Zugspitze. Late afternoon also provides beautiful golden hour light.
The entire loop trail offers stunning viewpoints. Look for spots with clear reflections of the mountains, the small islands, and the vibrant turquoise water.
Drone usage regulations can be strict in natural parks and near protected areas. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone at Eibsee.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Many visitors find the viewpoints near the small islands and along the western side of the lake particularly picturesque for capturing the full panorama.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant located near the boat rental area, which is the primary dining option directly at Eibsee. It offers meals and refreshments.
While there isn't a designated picnic area, you can find spots along the hiking trail to enjoy a packed lunch. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy by the lake. This is a good option to save money and have more variety.
The restaurant typically serves Bavarian and German cuisine, offering a range of dishes suitable for lunch or a snack.
Information on specific dietary options can vary. It's advisable to check the restaurant's menu in advance or inquire upon arrival if you have specific dietary needs.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The full loop around Eibsee is approximately 9 kilometers (about 5.6 miles) and typically takes around 3 hours to complete at a normal pace, including short breaks.
The trail is generally considered easy to moderate. It's mostly flat with some gentle inclines, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Eibsee and often enjoy the walk around the lake. Ensure your dog is on a leash and clean up after them.
Besides hiking, you can swim (though the water is cold!), rent boats (rowboats, pedal boats, SUPs), and take photos. In winter, you can walk on the frozen lake.
Yes, mobile toilets are available at various points along the hiking trail around Eibsee, which is convenient for longer walks.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options are limited to one restaurant. Mobile toilets along the trail are a lifesaver for families. The stunning natural beauty provides endless opportunities for kids to connect with nature and burn off energy in a safe and beautiful environment.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Consider renting a SUP or kayak for a more active way to explore the lake's perimeter. The proximity to the Zugspitze also means you can combine your Eibsee visit with a trip up Germany's highest peak for a more adventurous day.
📸 Photographers & Nature Lovers
Explore the entire loop trail to find diverse perspectives, from intimate forest paths to open, rocky shores. Don't miss the small islands and bridges, which add unique compositional elements. Visiting during the 'golden hour' before sunset can also yield spectacular results.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Eibsee Loop Trail
Along the way, you'll discover small, picturesque islands connected by charming wooden bridges, adding a fairytale-like quality to the landscape. The trail is well-maintained, and you'll find mobile toilets at intervals, which is a thoughtful amenity for a longer walk. The Eibsee location is truly a photographer's paradise, with countless opportunities to capture the stunning reflections and vibrant colors of the water.
Pro Tip: While the trail is beautiful year-round, consider visiting in autumn for vibrant foliage or in winter when the lake might be frozen, offering a completely different, magical perspective.
Boating and Water Activities
For those seeking a more guided experience, guided boat tours are also available, offering insights into the lake's history and natural beauty. It's important to note that these guided tours often require advance booking online, so plan ahead if this is your preferred option. The water itself is incredibly clear and pure, a testament to the pristine alpine environment. While it's fed by mountain springs and can be quite cold even in summer, some brave souls do take a dip!
Cost Consideration: Rowboat rentals typically cost around 15 euros for a group of four, offering an affordable way to enjoy the lake.
Winter Wonders at Eibsee
While the vibrant blues and greens of summer are replaced by a starker, monochromatic beauty, the reflections of the snow-covered Zugspitze on the frozen surface are spectacular. Access to the lake remains open, but it's crucial to be aware of weather conditions and Eibsee lake winter safety guidelines. Some facilities, like boat rentals, will likely be closed during the winter months.
Traveler Tip: Check local conditions before visiting in winter, as the degree of freezing can vary. Dress warmly, as it can be significantly colder at this altitude.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit