Geroldsee
A serene alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its picturesque wooden huts and stunning mountain reflections.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Geroldsee
Best Time
Golden light & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its picturesque wooden huts and stunning mountain reflections.
"This idyllic lake is truly heaven in Bavaria, a must-visit in the Garmisch region."
🎯 Easy Access from Gerold
Park in Gerold village (fee applies) for a short, easy walk to the lake. :car:
📸 Wide & Telephoto Lenses
Bring both lens types for diverse shots, from sweeping landscapes to hut details. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Wooden Huts
Lakeshore
Rustic wooden huts dot the shoreline, offering charming photo opportunities against the alpine backdrop.
Wildflower Meadows
Surrounding hillsides
In summer, the hillsides burst with vibrant wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene.
Alpine Panorama
Various viewpoints
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps reflected in the serene waters of the lake.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Getting There & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Easy Access from Gerold
Park in Gerold village (fee applies) for a short, easy walk to the lake. :car:
📸 Wide & Telephoto Lenses
Bring both lens types for diverse shots, from sweeping landscapes to hut details.
🚶♀️ Gentle Hike to Barmsee
The path to Barmsee is manageable for those with mild walking difficulties. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack Your Own Food
There are limited dining options, so bring snacks and drinks. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Easy Access from Gerold
Park in Gerold village (fee applies) for a short, easy walk to the lake. :car:
📸 Wide & Telephoto Lenses
Bring both lens types for diverse shots, from sweeping landscapes to hut details.
🚶♀️ Gentle Hike to Barmsee
The path to Barmsee is manageable for those with mild walking difficulties. :athletic_shoe:
🧺 Pack Your Own Food
There are limited dining options, so bring snacks and drinks. :sandwich:
☀️ Sunrise/Sunset Magic
Aim for dawn or dusk for the most spectacular light on the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Geroldsee for its stunning natural beauty, serene atmosphere, and picturesque wooden huts set against the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps. It's considered a hidden gem offering a peaceful escape. Some find it 'normal' if they don't explore beyond the immediate lake area, and parking fees can be a minor consideration.
"We missed this the first time around. From 2/E533, you will need to turn on “In Gerold”. From there, you will find a parking lot around the bend. You will need to pay 5 or 10 euro depending on how long you wish to stay. There is a short walk through the village before the hike to the lake starts. The trail itself is gravel and is an easy hike with nice views. Make this a stop along the way as you need less than an hour here."
K P
"Lake was frozen. It’s a nice place for a stroll. Paid parking possible on “In Gerold”."
Arjun Srivatsa
"I found this place to be normal, nothing spectacular about.Well it's for sure secluded and less crowded.I didn't do a lot of trek, might be that it's beautiful from the top of the hill.
Please make sure to carry your own food and also take away the leftovers.
You can park at the pension Simon and then walk.Parking costs about 5-10€."
R R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Munich Hauptbahnhof, take a train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen (approx. 1.5 hours), then a connecting train to Klais (10 mins) or a bus (9608) to Gerold (20 mins). From Klais or Gerold station, it's a 30-minute walk to the lake. +1
Yes, Geroldsee is well-connected by train and bus services from Munich and surrounding areas. The '9 Euro Ticket' was also a popular option for accessing it.
Yes, you can drive to Geroldsee. Parking is available in the village of Gerold, often near Pension Simon, for a fee.
The walk from the village of Gerold to the lake is relatively short and easy. The path is mostly gravel, making it manageable.
The journey from Munich to Geroldsee typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by public transport, depending on connections. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Geroldsee itself. However, parking in the village of Gerold usually incurs a fee of around 5-10 Euros.
No, tickets are not required for Geroldsee as it's a natural attraction. You only need to consider parking fees if you are arriving by car.
Geroldsee is a natural lake and is accessible at all times. However, the best experience is during daylight hours, especially for photography.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions, but it's always good practice to respect the natural environment and pack out any trash.
Yes, Geroldsee is popular for swimming, especially during the warmer summer months when the water is pleasant.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings for golden hour light and mist, and late afternoons for sunset hues, offer the most magical photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive alpine scenery, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details like the huts.
The entire shoreline offers various viewpoints. The area around the wooden huts and the meadows provide excellent photographic potential.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in protected natural areas before flying.
The combination of the serene lake, the majestic Alps, charming wooden huts, and seasonal wildflowers creates a uniquely picturesque landscape.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake, swim in the summer, have a picnic, and take in the stunning alpine scenery. It's also a great spot for photography.
The hike is generally considered manageable. While there are some uphill paths in the forest, it's not overly strenuous for most visitors.
Facilities are limited. It's best to come prepared with your own food and drinks. Restrooms might be available in the village of Gerold.
A visit to Geroldsee can be as short as an hour for a quick stroll, or longer if you plan to swim, picnic, or hike to nearby lakes.
Geroldsee is less crowded than some other popular Bavarian lakes, especially if you visit on a weekday or during off-peak hours.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack a picnic to make the most of the beautiful surroundings. While there aren't extensive playgrounds, the natural environment offers plenty of opportunities for imaginative play. Consider bringing a frisbee or ball. The gentle terrain also makes it suitable for strollers, though some paths might be a bit uneven.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Bring your own food and drinks to avoid expensive cafe stops. The natural beauty of the lake and surrounding Alps is free to enjoy. Hiking to nearby lakes like Barmsee also adds value without extra cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens kit, including wide-angle and telephoto options, to capture both grand landscapes and intricate details. Be prepared for potential mist in the early mornings, which can add a magical element to your shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating to Geroldsee: A Traveler's Guide
If you opt for driving, the village of Gerold serves as the primary access point. Look for designated parking areas, often near local guesthouses like Pension Simon. Be aware that parking usually comes with a small fee, typically between 5 to 10 Euros, depending on the duration of your stay. The drive itself offers beautiful views of the Bavarian countryside, making the journey part of the experience.
Many travelers find the journey to be part of the charm, with the walk from the station or village allowing you to soak in the initial atmosphere of the alpine region. It's a good idea to check train and bus schedules in advance, especially if traveling on weekends or holidays, to ensure a smooth transition.
Capturing Geroldsee's Beauty: Photography Tips
+1The surrounding wildflower meadows, particularly vibrant in summer, add splashes of color to your shots. Experiment with different angles to capture the interplay between the flowers, the lake, and the majestic Bavarian Alps in the background. Early mornings are also ideal for capturing the ethereal mist that often hovers over the water, adding a mystical quality to your photographs.
Many visitors recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons or on weekdays to avoid crowds and have more freedom to find the perfect composition. The reflections in the lake are often stunning, so keep an eye on the water's surface for mirror-like effects.
Exploring Beyond Geroldsee: The Three Lakes Hike
While the hike is not overly strenuous, there are some uphill sections in the forest between the lakes. Visitors with significant mobility issues might find these parts more challenging, but for most, it's a rewarding experience. The scenery along the way is beautiful, offering different perspectives of the alpine environment.
This extended exploration allows you to experience the diverse beauty of the region. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry water, especially if you plan to complete the entire loop. The combination of serene lakes and scenic trails makes this area a highlight for many visitors to Bavaria.
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