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If you like to unwind and jump into glistening alpine lakes, then Walchensee could be your place to be for your next camping holiday. Here you'll find all the information you need, from the best campsites to the most exciting activities.
Are you dreaming of a spontaneous break right by the lake, far away from the stress of everyday life? Then camping at Walchensee might be just the thing for you! With its crystal-clear, turquoise-coloured water and picturesque mountain backdrop, the location offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. In this blog article, you can find out everything you need to know about camping at Walchensee - from how to get there and recommended campsites to activities and excursions in the surrounding area.
Walchensee camping: your new favourite spot in the Bavarian Alps
Only 75 kilometres from Munich and you're right in the middle of nature! With an area of around 16 square kilometres, Lake Walchensee in the middle of Upper Bavaria in the Two Lakes Region is one of the largest Alpine lakes in Germany. Its deep blue colour and the surrounding mountain landscape make it a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts and have earned it the nickname ‘Bavarian Caribbean’. The lake is also known for its excellent water quality and is ideal for swimming and water sports in summer. It is also surrounded by picturesque villages such as Kochel am See and the charming town of Walchensee. By the way: In contrast to Walchensee Camping at Lake Riegsee in Bavaria is still more of an insider tip, but no less worth seeing!
Getting to the campsite at Walchensee - simple and uncomplicated
Fancy a spontaneous road trip? Then hire an off-road campervan, preferably in Munich or in Nuremberg and jet off. Walchensee is easy to reach from Munich via the A95 motorway and the B11 main road and you can start your relaxing holiday in no time at all.
Top 3 campsites at Walchensee
If you are looking for a campsite on Lake Walchensee, we can recommend the following places with lake views and mountain panoramas:
⛺️ Campingplatz Walchensee 1: Camping Walchensee: This family-run campsite is located on the shores of Lake Walchensee, nestled in the mountain landscape. It offers more than 100 pitches and campsites, over half of which are right on the lake - a dream!
⛺️ Campingplatz Walchensee 2: Camping Kesselberg: Not directly on Walchensee, but on the nearby Kochelsee with no less fantastic mountain panorama, you can also find a cosy home on four wheels here. Or savour Bavarian delicacies in the beer garden. Or both!
⛺️ Walchensee campsite 3: Renken campsite: Also located on Kochelsee, the small but beautiful Renken campsite is also a very good choice. It offers 40 pitches and three rental caravans for short-stay holidaymakers who don't want to miss out on the camping feeling.
It never gets boring here! Lake Walchensee offers many opportunities for all kinds of activities. From swimming and sunbathing on the lakeshore to water sports, hiking and cycling to cultural sights, there is something for everyone. Here are seven activities that you should definitely try when camping at Walchensee:
Hiking and mountaineering - the mountain is calling!
The area around Lake Walchensee is a true paradise for mountaineers: From easy walks to challenging summit tours, there is something for every hiking fan. Here are some of the most beautiful routes in the region:
🥾Walchensee circular hiking trail: With views of the Kochelsee and Walchensee lakes, it feels like you're hiking by yourself. And even more so with a stop at the beautiful Jocheralm!
🥾Summit tour to Heimgarten and Herzogstand: On this challenging route to Herzogstand at 1,731 metres, you will be rewarded with one of the most beautiful views of Lake Walchensee.
🥾Hike to the Jochberg: The route to the Jochberg (1,565 metres) is one of the most popular hikes in the Bavarian Pre-Alps. So it definitely belongs on your hiking bucket list!
Cycling and mountain biking - exploring the lake on two wheels!
You can also explore the landscape around Lake Walchensee by bike. There are many routes for beginners and advanced cyclists. And with great mountain views and a pinch of adrenaline, every tour is an adventure in itself.
🚲 Walchensee circular tour: An easy route that is perfect for a relaxing day on the saddle of your bike, where you can stop at the most beautiful places as you please.
🚲 Walchensee round tour light on the southern shore: You can cycle the most beautiful part of the Walchensee round tour in just one and a half hours - leaving more time for a cosy stop for refreshments!
🚲 Cycle tour Isarblick: From Kochel you cycle past beautiful views of the Isar towards the banks of Lake Walchensee. Amazement is guaranteed - but probably also sore muscles.
Water sports - off into the cool water!
Lake Walchensee is an absolute must for all water sports enthusiasts! Sailing, windsurfing, kayaking - you can really let off steam here. And how about trying SUP to paddle across the turquoise waters of Lake Walchensee? Here you will find an overview of where you can find the right water sports equipment for hire.
Photography - Grab your camera!
Capture the beauty of Lake Walchensee with your camera: the combination of crystal-clear water, lush forests and impressive mountain panoramas offers countless motifs. The hikes suggested above are perfect for this, as they offer some of the most beautiful views of the lake.
Yoga by the lake - find your inner Zen!
Grab your yoga mat and find your inner centre on the shores of Lake Walchensee. The fresh mountain air and the panorama around you will hopefully ensure pure relaxation. For a very special kind of experience, thedown.dog yoga studio even offers summit yoga: A special gondola takes you up the mountain at 7.30 am and after a 40-minute hike, an hour of yoga at lofty heights awaits you at the summit of the Herzogstand.
Cultural discoveries - experience Bavarian culture!
Camping Walchensee: Excursions in the surrounding area
There are many more places to discover around Lake Walchensee. Here are five ideas for short trips in the neighbourhood:
Neuschwanstein Castle: The Disney castle of your dreams in real life! The famous Neuschwanstein Castle is just a stone's throw away from Walchensee and definitely worth a visit.
Murnau am Staffelsee: Explore the pretty little town of Murnau at the Staffelsee, immerse yourself in the art and culture of the region and enjoy the flair in one of the cute cafés.
Partnachklamm: A nature and hiking experience awaits you in the Partnachklamm gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen: The deeply carved gorge offers spectacular views and is a must-see for mountain enthusiasts.
Linderhof Castle: You can also immerse yourself in the opulent world of King Ludwig II at the magnificent Linderhof Castle. It is also less crowded than Neuschwanstein Castle.
Innsbruck: Take a detour to Innsbruck and discover the city in Tyrol, which is known for its alpine landscape, historic architecture and lively, cosy atmosphere.
A camping holiday at Walchensee is an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its picturesque landscapes, numerous leisure activities and cosy campsites, Lake Walchensee offers everything a camper's heart desires. Whether you want to hike, swim, sail or simply enjoy nature, you are guaranteed to find your own personal holiday paradise at Walchensee. Pack your camping gear, grab a campervan and make your way to Walchensee. Off we go!
FAQ: The most important questions about Walchensee Camping
Are dogs allowed on the campsites at Walchensee?
The rules on pets can vary from campsite to campsite. Dogs are welcome at most campsites on Lake Walchensee, but it is best to check the website of the respective campsite for more information.
Can you camp wild at Walchensee?
No, wild camping is unfortunately not permitted at Walchensee. However, you can camp on the designated campsites at Walchensee or use alternative accommodation options in the surrounding area. You can find more information on wild camping in Germany in our blog article.
Are there shopping facilities near the campsites at Walchensee?
Yes, you will often find small shops or supermarkets near the campsites on Lake Walchensee where you can buy food and camping equipment. Some campsites on Lake Walchensee also offer their own mini-market or a bread roll service for their guests.
Are there barbecue facilities at Walchensee?
Yes, many of the campsites on Lake Walchensee have barbecue areas or allow barbecues on the pitches. However, please observe the local regulations and make sure that open fires are only permitted in the designated areas.
What activities can you do at Walchensee?
There are a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts at Walchensee. These include hiking, cycling, water sports such as sailing and windsurfing, fishing, photography, yoga by the lake and cultural discoveries in the surrounding area.
Can you swim at Walchensee?
Yes, the water of Lake Walchensee is so clear and turquoise that a refreshing dip in the water is twice as much fun. There are bathing areas in many places on the shore of the lake that invite you to splash around and refresh yourself.
