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Chiemsee & water experience

Fancy a day by the sea?

Chiemgau is one of the most charming regions in Bavaria, not only because of its picturesque mountains and idyllic landscapes, but also because of its numerous bodies of water. First and foremost is the Chiemsee, the "Bavarian Sea", the largest and most famous lake in the region. But in addition to the Chiemsee, almost 50 other lakes and rivers invite you to relax, swim and enjoy sporting activities. The region would not be the same without these diverse bodies of water, as they make our region a paradise for swimmers, water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Lake Chiemsee - the gateway to Chiemgau

With its impressive size and central location, Lake Chiemsee is the flagship of Chiemgau. It is often referred to as the gateway to the region for good reason. At 79.9 km², Lake Chiemsee is the third largest lake in Germany and offers a wide range of leisure activities. There are numerous bathing spots on its shores, which are very popular in summer. The beaches near Seebruck, Prien, Übersee and Chieming are particularly popular. With their clear water, well-tended facilities and magnificent views of the Chiemgau Alps, they are simply beautiful and invite you to relax with the whole family.

Lake Chiemsee is a true paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Whether sailing, surfing, kitesurfing or stand-up paddling - the conditions here are ideal. On a boat trip on Lake Chiemsee, you can not only enjoy nature, but also explore the famous Chiemsee islands, especially the Herreninsel with Herrenchiemsee Castle and the idyllic Fraueninsel.

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Other lakes in Chiemgau - Little Canada and more

In addition to the famous Lake Chiemsee, there are numerous smaller but no less attractive bodies of water in Chiemgau. The three-lake area between Ruhpolding and Reit im Winkl is affectionately called "Little Canada" by the locals. The Weitsee, Mittersee and Lödensee lakes are located here. These lakes impress with their unspoilt nature and crystal-clear water.

Another highlight is Lake Waginger See, which is considered the warmest lake in Upper Bavaria. You can swim here until late summer. The lake is particularly suitable for families as it has shallow shores and offers numerous leisure activities.

Not to be forgotten is the Tüttensee, which is said to have been formed by a meteorite impact. Even if it actually looks like this, the theory unfortunately doesn't seem to be true. Today, the Tüttensee is a popular bathing lake with beautiful surroundings and warm water.

Taubensee, on the other hand, is the highest lake in Chiemgau and impresses with its secluded location in the middle of the mountains.

The most beautiful lakes in Chiemgau

Swimming spots in Chiemgau

The bathing spots in Chiemgau are as diverse as the region itself. Whether families with children, those seeking peace and quiet or adventurers - there is a suitable place for everyone to dive into the cool water.

Lido Sun Terrace Cafe Lounge

Übersee

The ideal place for sun worshipers and romantics with fabulous sunsets. The lido in Übersee on the southern shore with the longest sandy beach in…
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Strandbad Chieming

Chieming

The Chieming lido on the eastern shore of Lake Chiemsee not only has a long bathing jetty and a large sunbathing area, but also its own SUP rental. So…
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Chiemseebad Seebruck

Seebruck

The 20,000 m², barrier-free sunbathing lawn of the Seebruck lido awaits you comfortably behind trees on the northern shore of Lake Chiemsee. The view…
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Here are more bathing spots in Chiemgau.

Water sports in Chiemgau - adventures on and in the water

In addition to swimming, Chiemgau offers countless opportunities for water sports enthusiasts. The region is known for its variety of water sports activities, ranging from kayaking and canoeing to sailing and canyoning.
For all those who like to play with the wind, Lake Chiemsee offers the best conditions for sailing, surfing and kitesurfing. Beginners and professionals alike will find ideal conditions here, and numerous water sports schools offer courses and equipment. But you can also discover Lake Chiemsee on a SUP (stand-up paddleboard). There are numerous hire centres around the lake.

For adventurers who like things a little wilder, kayaking, rafting and canyoning tours on the region's rivers are a special experience.

A more relaxed option is a trip on the Alz, which flows from Chiemsee to Altenmarkt. Glide through the idyllic landscape in a canoe or kayak and experience nature from a completely new perspective. The Alz is particularly suitable for families and beginners as it flows quite calmly.

There are restrictions on the Alz in order to protect nature. Dinghy trips are only permitted from 1 July to protect the bird breeding grounds. To be on the safe side, you should always check the water level beforehand and end your trip at the official exit point in Truchtlaching.

If you want more action, you can join a guided kayak or rafting tour on the Tiroler Ache. Here you can gain your first white water experience and enjoy the beautiful landscape through the Entenlochklamm gorge.
Many canyoning tours in the region require you to travel to neighbouring Austria first, but there are numerous tours for all levels of difficulty nearby, where you can feel the power of the water in the gorges and attempt jumps of varying heights.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about the waters in Chiemgau

Which lakes in Chiemgau are particularly suitable for families? The Chiemsee, Waginger See and Tüttensee lakes are ideal for families. They offer shallow shores, playgrounds and well-equipped bathing areas.


Where are you not allowed to swim in Chiemgau? Swimming is not permitted in Frillensee near Inzell due to nature conservation. The lake is under special protection as it is an important habitat for many rare animal and plant species.


Are there barrier-free bathing spots in Chiemgau? Yes, some bathing spots in the region offer barrier-free access. In some cases, there are also special facilities for wheelchair users so that people with limited mobility can also enjoy swimming. Barrier-free bathing spots include the Schraml bathing area in Prien am Chiemsee and the Chiemseebad Seebruck on Lake Chiemsee. On Lake Simsee, the Ecking, Krottenmühl and Pietzing bathing areas. There are many more, but it's best to find out in advance what the options are locally.


Which lakes in Chiemgau are particularly suitable for water sports? Lake Chiemsee is the centre for water sports in Chiemgau. You can go sailing, surfing, kitesurfing and stand-up paddling here. The Alz is particularly recommended for canoeists and kayakers.


Where can you swim with dogs in Chiemgau? There are special dog beaches in Chiemgau where four-legged friends are welcome. At Lake Waginger See, dogs can swim at the Salzachinsel lido, and there are also free bathing areas for dogs in Übersee (behind the lido), Chieming (behind the Möwenplatz campsite) and Bernau (near the Bernau bathing centre). Swimming with dogs is also permitted in many places on rivers such as the Tiroler Ache or the Prien. However, dogs are banned from nature reserves and official lidos to avoid contamination and to protect people and animals.

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Hiking next to lake Chiemsee

Always along the bank

To the Chiemsee
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Water sports

Sport and fun in the water

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Wellness & thermal baths

Just relax

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