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Lake · Füssen, Baviera
Alpsee
A clear-water lake at the foot of Hohenschwangau, surrounded by mountains, with a trail around it, a viewpoint and boat rentals in summer.
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 Alpsee
The Alpsee is a lake of 88 hectares with about 4.7 kilometers of shoreline in the municipality of Schwangau, just below Hohenschwangau castle and at the foot of Mount Säuling. The border with Austria runs less than half a kilometer from the southern shore. The name first appears in 1523 as Albsee.
A trail circles the lake through the forest, with sections along the water and the Pindarplatz viewpoint on a rock above the lake. It’s an easy dirt path, good for escaping the crowds around the castles. To the north lies the Schwansee, a smaller lake connected to a park.
In summer the Alpseebad bathing area and rowboat and pedal-boat rentals operate. The lake is considered one of the cleanest in Germany. The view of Hohenschwangau reflected in the water, from the shore near the museum, is one of the region’s most photographed scenes.
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
Walking the full loop takes about an hour and a half. A stop on the shore near the museum takes about 15 minutes.
Best time
Boat rentals and bathing are available from May to September; in autumn for the foliage. Boat rental only operates in season and in good weather.
How to get there
It is in Hohenschwangau, next to the Museum der bayerischen Könige, a few minutes' walk from the bus stop for lines 73 and 78 from Füssen station.
Tip
Use the lakeside trail to fill time between buying your ticket and your castle visit. Wear closed shoes: the path has roots and some wet sections.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Alpsee
Can you walk around the Alpsee?
Yes. The trail is about 4.7 kilometers, through wooded terrain with no major climbs, and takes around an hour and a half.
Can you swim in the lake?
In summer yes, in the bathing area of the Alpseebad on the south shore. The water is cold even in July and August.
Is there boat rental?
In the summer season there are rowboat and pedal-boat rentals near the museum. It depends on the weather; confirm on site.