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Germany
Bavaria
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Allgäu
Ostallgäu

Alpsee

Top 13 Lakes around Alpsee

Best lakes around Alpsee are characterized by their location in the Bavarian setting, close to the Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles. The Alpsee itself is a pristine mountain lake known for its clear, blue-turquoise water and a shoreline of just under 5 kilometers. The region offers a mix of natural beauty, historical proximity, and recreational opportunities. Visitors can explore various lakes, each providing distinct features and activities.

Best lakes around Alpsee

  • The most popular lakes is View of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles from the Alpsee shore, a viewpoint that offers a beautiful view of the two castles from the lower end of the lake. Its location directly below Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles offers unparalleled photographic opportunities.
  • Another must-see spot is South Shore of the Alpsee, a lake area. This section provides impressive views of the castles when visibility is good, and is part of the circular hiking trail around the lake.
  • Visitors also love Memorial to Josef Schwarz, a man-made monument. This memorial is situated along the circular route, offering continuous views of the lake's beautiful color.
  • Alpsee is known for pristine mountain lakes, idyllic smaller lakes, and large reservoirs. Visitors can explore a variety of natural settings, from serene shores to expansive waters for water sports.
  • The lakes around Alpsee are appreciated by the komoot community. The community has contributed over 1000 photos and given more than 2600 upvotes to the 12 highlights in this region.

Last updated: April 26, 2026

Lake Alpsee

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Swimming here in the crystal clear water in summer and the view of the mountain panorama with the castles, what more could you ask for.

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Picturesque reflect the mountains in the deep blue water and on the other side of the lake you can see the castles Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau.

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From the lower end of the lake you have a beautiful view of the two castles.
Dog owners should know that when going around the lake you have to walk over gratings, they cannot be bypassed.

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South Shore of the Alpsee

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It is impressive when you can see the two castles from the lower end of the lake when the visibility is good.
Dog owners should remember that there are gratings at the lower end of the lake to overflow and they cannot be bypassed, so the dog should be able to or he must be carried.

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Memorial to Josef Schwarz

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Nice little round, and the lake always to the side. The color is always beautiful to look at

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Popular around Alpsee

Hiking around Alpsee

Cycling around Alpsee

MTB Trails around Alpsee

Road Cycling Routes around Alpsee

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Tips from the Community

山𝓐𝐋к𝓲ภG ᶠΔή 𝔰𝓶ⓩ💯%
June 29, 2025, Memorial to Josef Schwarz

A beautiful memorial

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On May 2, 1936, Josef Schwarz had an accident while felling wood

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Very nice view of the royal castle.

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Very crowded at the weekend, hardly any rest, easy to commit path

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The turquoise water against this mighty mountain backdrop.... ! Only about half of the circular route is accessible for wheelchair users or strollers!

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Fantastic view!

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Fantastically beautiful lake. The circular route is worth it. Great views of the lake and castles.

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Portraits of many Bavarian kings line the Fürstenstraße as a reference to the Museum of the Bavarian Kings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main lakes to explore in the Alpsee region?

The primary lake is the Alpsee itself, known for its crystal-clear water and proximity to the royal castles. Other notable lakes in the vicinity include Schwansee, offering a peaceful atmosphere, Forggensee, a large reservoir popular for water sports, and Bannwaldsee, known for scenic mountain views.

Are there good hiking trails around Alpsee?

Yes, the Alpsee region offers excellent hiking opportunities. A popular choice is the roughly 5 km long circular trail around the Alpsee, which provides numerous scenic viewpoints. The "Fürstenstrasse" (Princes' Road) also offers hiking from Hohenschwangau over the Schwarzenberg ridge. You can find a stamping point for the Schwangau Hiking Pass along the Alpsee Circular Trail at Wanderpass Stamping Point – Alpsee Circular Trail.

What kind of views can I expect around Alpsee?

The Alpsee offers breathtaking views, especially of the iconic Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles. From the lower end of the lake, you get unparalleled photographic opportunities, particularly from View of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles from the Alpsee shore and the South Shore of the Alpsee. The lake's beautiful blue-turquoise color is a constant highlight along the circular route, as noted near the Memorial to Josef Schwarz.

Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes?

Yes, the Alpsee region is suitable for families. The circular hiking trail around Alpsee is generally considered family-friendly. The Marien Monument at the Alpsee is also a family-friendly viewpoint. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in Alpsee's cool waters or renting boats. Schwansee offers peaceful strolls, and Forggensee provides boat tours and water sports.

Can I bring my dog on the trails around Alpsee?

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on trails around Alpsee. However, dog owners should be aware that parts of the circular trail around Alpsee include gratings that cannot be bypassed. Your dog should either be comfortable walking on them or be able to be carried over these sections.

What water sports are available on the lakes?

Forggensee, being one of Bavaria's largest reservoirs, is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and swimming. Alpsee also allows swimming and boat rentals. Bannwaldsee provides calm waters suitable for swimming and fishing.

What is the best time of year to visit the Alpsee region?

The Alpsee region is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and fewer crowds. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports. The winter months can transform the landscape into a picturesque snowy scene, though some activities might be limited.

Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?

Absolutely. The Alpsee is famously situated directly below the iconic Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles, offering a unique 'royal flair' to the natural landscape. The Marien Monument at the Alpsee is a historical monument dedicated to Queen Mother Marie of Bavaria, marking her favorite spot on the lake.

What other outdoor activities can I do near the Alpsee lakes?

Beyond hiking, the region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, cycling, and running. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'View of Neuschwanstein Castle' loop or 'To the Vilser Alm' via the MTB Trails around Alpsee guide. Cycling enthusiasts can find routes like the 'Alatsee' loop or 'Hohenschwangau Castle' loop in the Cycling around Alpsee guide. For running, consider routes like the 'Lechfall – Hohenschwangau Castle' loop from the Running Trails around Alpsee guide.

Is there public transport or parking available near Alpsee?

While specific details on public transport routes are best checked locally, the Alpsee is easily accessible from Füssen. Parking facilities are available in Hohenschwangau, which is the main access point for the castles and the Alpsee. It's advisable to arrive early during peak season.

What makes the Alpsee's water so special?

The Alpsee is renowned for its exceptionally clean, blue-turquoise water. It's considered one of the cleanest lakes in Germany, with visibility allowing you to see stones at its bottom. This pristine quality makes it very inviting for swimming and enjoying the natural beauty.

Are there any quiet spots or hidden gems around the lakes?

While Alpsee itself can be popular due to the castles, the Marien Monument at the Alpsee is noted as a favorite, quieter spot of Queen Mother Marie, offering wonderful views away from the main tourist crowds. Schwansee also provides a more tranquil atmosphere for relaxing strolls compared to the more bustling Alpsee.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Alpsee? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

HalblechSchwangauHohenschwangauFüssenPfrontenHopfen am SeeEisenbergRoßhauptenHopferauRieden am ForggenseeSeegNesselwangStötten am AuerbergLechbruck am SeeRückholzLechbruck am SeeLengenwangMarktoberdorfGörisriedBuchloeLamerdingenSchwarzenbergUnterthingauWaalHopfenseeIrseeMauerstettenRettenbach am AuerbergGermaringenPforzenEggenthalStöttwangBaisweilKaltentalRuderatshofenOberostendorfJengenAitrangFriesenriedKraftisriedWeißenseeBiessenhofenBidingenObergünzburgGünzachOsterzellUntrasriedForggenseeBachtelseeSchwansee

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Things to Do around Schwansee

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