Lake Chiemsee - Fraueninsel & Herrenchiemsee Castle

Lake Chiemsee is the flagship of the Chiemgau region and is known far beyond the borders of Bavaria. With its unique location, historic islands and wide range of leisure activities, Lake Chiemsee attracts visitors of all ages.

What you should know about Lake Chiemsee

Lake Chiemsee, affectionately known as the "Bavarian Sea", is the centrepiece of the Chiemgau region and attracts thousands of visitors every year. With an area of almost 80 square kilometres, it is the largest lake in Bavaria and the third largest in Germany.

It was formed around 10,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age, the Würm glacial period, when a glacier carved out a tongue basin. Originally, Lake Chiemsee was three times the size it is today and covered almost 240 square kilometres. However, sedimentation and sedimentation have greatly reduced its surface area.

The name "Bavarian Sea" comes from its impressive size, which makes it look like an inland sea. The surrounding mountains, which frame it majestically, also reinforce this impression. Lake Chiemsee has a shoreline length of almost 64 kilometres - including the islands, it is even 83 kilometres long.

The name of the lake is derived from the village of Chieming, which in turn is said to go back to the Celtic personal name "Chiemo".

The islands of Lake Chiemsee are particularly well-known:

Herreninsel and Fraueninsel

In the footsteps of King Ludwig II and the Bavarian Duke Tassilo

In addition to King Ludwig II's magnificent palace and the former Augustinian canon monastery, the island of Herrenchiemsee is also home to historic parks with the Fama, Fortuna and Latona fountains. Just ten minutes away by boat is the small, romantic Fraueninsel. The Bavarian Duke Tassilo built a monastery here around 700, where Benedictine nuns still live today. Among other things, they cultivate the monastery garden and produce the popular marzipan, which is available in the monastery shop. The tower of the monastery, the octagonal campanile, is a landmark of Chiemgau and one of the most photographed objects in the region.

Swimming at Lake Chiemsee

Lake Chiemsee is a paradise for anyone who loves the water. There are numerous bathing spots and lidos around the lake that are perfect for a swimming holiday:

Here are the most popular bathing spots at the Bavarian Sea:

Water sports on Lake Chiemsee

Lake Chiemsee is a real paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Thanks to its size and the often ideal wind conditions, it is perfect for numerous activities on the water.

Sailing: Lake Chiemsee is wonderfully suited for sailors and there are many opportunities to set sail. With sailing schools, hire centres and regattas, there is something for everyone here, from beginners to professionals.

Stand-up paddling (SUP): The calm waters in many parts of the lake make Lake Chiemsee an ideal place for stand-up paddling. There are numerous hire stations and tours along the shores promise unique views of the landscape.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing: When the wind picks up, windsurfers and kiters flock to Lake Chiemsee. The south-eastern areas of the lake in particular often offer perfect conditions for these sports.

Kayaking and canoeing: For a relaxed exploration of the lake, a tour in a kayak or canoe is ideal. Many hire companies make it possible to experience the lake from a new perspective and observe the flora and fauna up close.

Electric boats: While private motorboats are subject to strict regulations, visitors can hire electric boats. A boat trip offers the opportunity to discover even the more remote corners of Lake Chiemsee.

Chiemsee boat trip - a classic for visitors

If you prefer a less sporty experience, you can discover the islands on a Chiemsee-Schifffahrt steamer. With a fleet of several ships, it connects the most important towns on the shores of the lake such as Prien, Gstadt, Seebruck and Chieming with the famous islands - Herreninsel and Fraueninsel.

In good years, almost 1 million passengers use the Chiemsee boat trip to experience the lake and its scenic beauty. Whether as a day trip to visit Herrenchiemsee Castle or for a relaxing round trip on the water

How to get to the Chiemsee

Lake Chiemsee is easily accessible. By car, you can take the A8 Munich-Salzburg motorway to the Bernau, Prien or Übersee exits. Travelling by train is also convenient: train stations in Prien, Bernau and Übersee provide direct connections.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Lake Chiemsee

Can you cycle around Lake Chiemsee? Yes, the Chiemsee cycle path leads around the lake in a circular tour of around 60 kilometres and offers wonderful views of the landscape.

What water sports can be practised on Lake Chiemsee? At Lake Chiemsee you can swim, sail, surf, kite, stand-up paddle, kayak or canoe as well as go out on electric boats.

Are there family-friendly bathing areas? Yes, the lidos on Lake Chiemsee, such as those in Übersee, Chieming and Bernau-Felden, offer child-friendly areas with shallow entrances and playgrounds.

Are there dog-friendly bathing areas? Yes, in Bernau am Chiemsee, for example, there is a dog bathing area between the steamer jetty and the water rescue centre. In Prien am Chiemsee, part of the sunbathing lawn at the Schöllkopf lido is also available for dogs. There is also a dog beach in Chieming, which is located between the beach campsite and the sailing club. Please note that dogs must be kept on a lead.

What is the best way to get to Chiemsee? The Chiemsee can be easily reached by car (Prien, Bernau and Übersee) or by bike via the Chiemsee cycle path.

How deep is Lake Chiemsee? Lake Chiemsee has a maximum depth of around 74 metres. The deepest point, known as the "innocent children's pit", is in the centre of the lake.

Why is Lake Chiemsee disappearing? In around 8,000 years at the latest, Lake Chiemsee will have disappeared. Debris and sediment from the Alps will slowly fill the lake until it is completely silted up.