Top 20 Lakes around Natural Park Allgäuer Hochalpen

For a family-friendly experience, consider Christlessee, known for its exceptionally clear, blue-green water and scenic walking paths. Another option is Lower Gaisalp Lake, which is accessible via a moderately difficult hike and allows swimming in summer, though the water is naturally cold.

Yes, you can swim in Lower Gaisalp Lake during summer, although the water remains icy cold. Schrecksee also allows swimming, but its near subzero temperatures make it a very bracing experience. Christlessee, while beautiful, is generally too cold for swimming even in summer.

Christlessee is renowned for its exceptionally clear, blue-green water, fed by strong karstic springs. Schrecksee also boasts emerald-green, crystal-clear waters, offering visibility of the lakebed.

Reaching Schrecksee involves a challenging 7-8 hour round trip hike with a strenuous 1,000-meter ascent. The hike to Lower Gaisalp Lake is considered moderately difficult, requiring good fitness. Christlessee is more easily accessible via a scenic walking path.

At Schrecksee, you'll find a small, lush island in its center, adding to its picturesque quality. Christlessee is unique because it never freezes due to its spring-fed nature. Lower Gaisalp Lake is set in a natural cirque basin, surrounded by rugged rocks and alpine meadows, and you might even spot chamois.

Yes, the hike to Schrecksee culminates in panoramic views of the alpine landscape. From Lower Gaisalp Lake, you can continue to higher points like Rubihorn or Geißfußsattel for even broader vistas. There's also a dedicated View of the Seealpsee highlight offering wonderful views.

The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can enjoy challenging mountain hikes, such as the 'Petersalpe – Lake Rappensee loop' or the 'View of Schrecksee – Schrecksee loop'. There are also options for gravel biking, like the 'Iller River near Sonthofen – Sonthofer Lake loop', and various waterfall hikes, including the 'Zipfelsbach Waterfall – Zipfelsalpe loop'. You can find more details on these activities in the respective guides: Mountain Hikes, Gravel Biking, and Waterfall Hikes.

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and tranquility. For instance, Lower Gaisalp Lake is described as having 'wonderful nature' and an 'idyllic' setting. Christlessee is admired for its 'crystal clear and beautiful' turquoise waters. The challenging hikes to these high alpine lakes are often considered highly rewarding for the views and serene environment.

Near Christlessee, there is a café that offers a place to rest and enjoy the views. For more remote lakes like Schrecksee, there are no huts or shops along the trail, so visitors should come prepared. The Rappensee Hut is a larger facility in the area, offering accommodation and food, and provides views of surrounding peaks.

The best time to visit largely depends on your desired activity. Summer is ideal for hiking and if you wish to brave a swim in the cold waters of Lower Gaisalp Lake. Spring, particularly during snowmelt, offers impressive views of waterfalls like the Gaisalpsee waterfall. While some lakes like Christlessee never freeze, winter hikes to high alpine lakes require proper gear and experience.

Yes, to preserve the fragile alpine environment, activities like free camping, campfires, paragliding, and drones are strictly prohibited at Schrecksee. The land surrounding Christlessee is also a protected area, emphasizing its pristine condition.