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Lake · Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Baviera
Eibsee
A green‑water lake at the foot of the north face of the Zugspitze, in Grainau, 9 km from Garmisch. It has a path circling the shore and the departure station for the Zugspitze cable car.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Eibsee
The Eibsee is about 9 km southwest of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, in the municipality of Grainau, just below the Zugspitze. The water is greenish and very clear. The lake formed after the last glacial period, and a large rockslide about 3,500 years ago created the small islands and bays seen today.
A roughly 7 km trail circles the shore, almost flat, with wooden footbridges and stretches of pebble beach. From the south side the view opens to the north face of the Zugspitze. The lake is privately owned, but shore access is kept open to the public, with rules to protect the area.
It is also the departure point for the Seilbahn Zugspitze cable car to the summit and one of the stops of the rack railway. For that reason many people combine the mountain and the lake on the same day.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 3 hours: about 2 hours for the full walk around, longer if you rent a boat or stop at one of the lakeside restaurants.
Best time
Early morning and late afternoon have fewer people and more attractive light on the water. In summer and on weekends the parking lot often fills up; prefer the train. Water levels can drop significantly in dry years.
How to get there
By the Zugspitzbahn rack railway from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Eibsee station. By car there is paid parking next to the lake, which often fills up in summer.
Tip
Combine it with the Zugspitze: go up by train and descend by cable car to the Eibsee, then do the lakeside walk before returning. Respect fenced areas on the shore, which are under restoration.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Eibsee
How long does it take to walk around the Eibsee?
The trail around the lake is about 7 km and takes around 2 hours, with almost no climbs.
How to get to the Eibsee without a car?
By the Zugspitzbahn rack railway, which departs from Garmisch-Partenkirchen and stops at Eibsee station.
Can you swim or go boating?
In the warmest season there is usually rowboat rental next to the lakeside hotel. The water is cold even in summer. Check the rules and the season locally.