Attractions and Places To See around Kirchsee - Top 13
Best attractions and places to see around Kirchsee, a moor lake in Upper Bavaria, Germany, offer a variety of experiences for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Located approximately 30 kilometers south of Munich, near Sachsenkam, the region is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The Kirchsee is nestled within the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor Nature Reserve, one of Bavaria's oldest protected areas, providing a habitat for rare plants and endangered animal species. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the Alps across the crescent-shaped lake.
Best attractions and places to see around Kirchsee
- The most popular attractions is Bridge over the Schwentine at the Wehrberg grounds, a bridge that crosses the Kirchsee through which the Schwentine flows. This is an important bridge for hikers and cyclists, providing a direct route.
- Another must-see spot is Wooden Bridge Over the Lanker See, a bridge and viewpoint. From this bridge, located at the junction of Lake Kirchsee and Lake Lanker, visitors have views over Lake Kirchsee towards the town church.
- Visitors also love Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee, a cafe and lake facility. Here, visitors can rent watercraft to paddle on the Kirchsee, and the boathouse also functions as a kiosk restaurant.
- Kirchsee is known for its bridges, cafes, and natural attractions like the lake and surrounding nature reserve. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from scenic viewpoints to recreational facilities.
- The attractions around Kirchsee are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 220 upvotes and over 130 photos shared.
Last updated: October 23, 2026
Wooden Bridge Over the Lanker See
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The bridge leads to the other shore, where you can continue walking along Lake Kirchsee to the town church.
There are also hiking and cycling trails that continue to the Lanker See swimming pool or along the Schuster Acht.
It is also possible to climb the Wehrberg, which houses a memorial to those killed in World War I.
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Bench by the Lake
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From here you have a beautiful view of the church
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Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee
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Preetzer Café-Stuben
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Driller Bridge (Kirchsee Bridge) Preetz
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Tips from the Community
From the bridge, one has a magnificent view over the Kirchsee on one side and the Lanker See on the other... Behind the Kirchsee, the church tower of the town church rises, visible from afar.
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This bridge crosses the Schwentine River, which flows from Lake Lanker to Lake Kirchsee. From here, I have a view of Lake Kirchsee all the way to the town church and, on the other side, towards Lake Lanker. From here, you can observe various water sports enthusiasts, as well as geese, seagulls, and ducks. The Way of St. James, the E1, and the Schuster Acht all run along here.
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Right at the junction of Lake Kirchsee and Lake Lanker, through which the Schwentine River flows on its way from the Bungsberg to its mouth in the Kiel Fjord, there is a bridge and a small bay in front of it with sun loungers and benches for relaxing. From there, you have a view over Lake Kirchsee all the way to the town church. The bridge leads to the other shore, where you can continue walking along Lake Kirchsee to the town church. There are also hiking and cycling trails that continue to the Lanker See swimming pool or along the Schuster Acht. It is also possible to climb the Wehrberg, which houses a memorial to those killed in World War I.
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a cute, quaint little cafe with a beautiful garden in the pedestrian zone, a recommended stop
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The Preetz town church in its current form corresponds essentially to a design by Rudolph Matthias Dallin from the 1720s. Its foundation dates back to the 12th century. A first building, dedicated to Saint Lawrence, was replaced around 1200/10 by a small fieldstone church,[1] the foundations of which, discovered in 1727, were uncovered during the renovations between 1938 and 1941 and showed a simple rectangular floor plan measuring seven by twelve meters. On the west side of the nave stood a bell tower made of fieldstone.
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The Preetz town church is the main Protestant church in the town of Preetz in the Plön district of Schleswig-Holstein. It is located in the south of Preetz town centre on a hill on the western shore of the Kirchsee. It is surrounded by the parish hall, houses for pastors and other church employees and a church-run retirement home, which form an ensemble of church buildings.
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A nice place to fish and enjoy. From here you have a beautiful view of the church
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In dry weather, it's a really nice place to relax and unwind. In summer, you can watch canoeists, water birds and walkers and enjoy the scenery with a view of the water and Preetz in the background. For us, it's a perfect place to enjoy an ice cream from Eiscafe Bertow (Langebrückstr 3, closed in winter) :)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Kirchsee?
Kirchsee is a picturesque moor lake nestled within the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor Nature Reserve, one of Bavaria's oldest protected areas. You can enjoy the lake itself, known for its exceptional EU-certified bathing water quality, and the expansive moorland which blooms vibrantly in summer. The area also offers panoramic views of the Alps on clear days.
Are there opportunities for swimming at Kirchsee?
Yes, Kirchsee is very popular for swimming, especially during summer. Its relatively warm moor water makes it inviting, and there are designated bathing areas on both the north and south shores. The north shore also provides amenities like kiosks and toilets.
What historical or cultural sites are near Kirchsee?
A significant cultural landmark visible from the lake is Kloster Reutberg (Reutberg Monastery). Perched on a hill near Sachsenkam, this historic monastery is a well-known excursion destination and features a popular restaurant. The south shore's bathing area is a pleasant 20-minute walk or bike ride from the monastery.
Are there good hiking trails around Kirchsee?
Absolutely. The "Kirchsee Rundweg" (circular trail) is a popular option for experiencing the lake's diverse shores and the nature reserve. Numerous trails also connect directly to Kloster Reutberg. For more extensive options, you can explore various cycling and hiking routes in the wider region.
Can I go cycling near Kirchsee?
Yes, the area around Kirchsee is ideal for cycling. The "Kirchsee Rundweg" is suitable for a leisurely ride, and many trails connect to nearby attractions like Kloster Reutberg. For more dedicated cycling, komoot offers several cycling guides, including options for MTB trails and road cycling routes.
What facilities are available at Kirchsee for visitors?
The north shore of Kirchsee provides amenities such as two bathing areas, a kiosk, toilets, and paid parking. During peak season, a water rescue station is also present. The "Maikiki" Café and Kiosk, located between the parking lot and the northeast bank, offers refreshments.
Is Kirchsee suitable for families with children?
Yes, Kirchsee is very family-friendly. The warm, clean water is excellent for swimming, and the designated bathing areas are safe. Families can also enjoy paddling on the lake by renting watercraft from the Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee. The easy circular trails are also suitable for walks with children.
What is the best time of year to visit Kirchsee?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Summer is ideal for swimming and enjoying the vibrant blooms of the moorland. In winter, when the lake freezes over, it transforms into a popular destination for ice skating and curling. Clear days in any season can offer stunning panoramic views of the Alps.
Where can I rent boats or kayaks at Kirchsee?
You can rent watercraft, such as canoes or pedal boats, at the Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee. This facility also functions as a kiosk restaurant, offering refreshments.
Are there cafes or restaurants near Kirchsee?
Yes, there are several options. The "Maikiki" Café and Kiosk is located on the north shore. The Boathouse Canoe Café & More at Kirchsee also serves as a kiosk restaurant. Additionally, Kloster Reutberg has a popular restaurant, and the Preetzer Café-Stuben is highly recommended for its food and garden.
What are some unique viewpoints around Kirchsee?
You can find excellent viewpoints at the bridges crossing the Schwentine River. The Wooden Bridge Over the Lanker See offers views over Kirchsee towards the town church. Similarly, the Bridge over the Schwentine at the Wehrberg grounds provides important passage and scenic views. The Driller Bridge (Kirchsee Bridge) Preetz also offers great views of the Kirchsee from its northern tip.
Are there any specific rules or restrictions to be aware of in the nature reserve?
Yes, as Kirchsee is part of a nature reserve, certain activities are restricted to protect the delicate ecosystem. These include grilling, bringing animals into the water during bathing season, camping, and open fires. Please respect the signage and regulations in place.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor Nature Reserve?
The Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor Nature Reserve is a habitat for rare plants and endangered animal species. Visitors may spot various butterflies, especially when the meadows are in bloom during summer. The diverse ecosystem supports a range of flora and fauna unique to moorland environments.
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