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Waterfall · Füssen, Baviera
Lechfall
Waterfall of the Lech River where it exits a narrow gorge on the southern edge of Füssen, seen from a 1895 footbridge.
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 Lechfall
The Lechfall is on the southern edge of Füssen, where the Lech River leaves the Alps through a narrow gorge about 150 meters long and more than 20 meters deep. The drop of almost eight meters is actually an overflow dam built between 1784 and 1787 to harness the power of the water, but the river's volume is impressive.
A footbridge, the König-Max-Steg (1895), crosses the gorge and features a bust of King Maximilian II in a niche carved into the rock. On the east side, a mark in the stone—the Magnustritt—is traditionally said to be the footprint of São Magno, who supposedly jumped the river while fleeing pursuers.
The Lech gorge is protected as a natural monument and is one of Bavaria's best-known geosites. It is an open site with no ticket office and serves as a starting point for walks along the riverbank and around the Faulenbach lakes.
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
About 20 to 30 minutes, plus walking time from the Altstadt.
Best time
In spring, with the thaw, the water volume is usually higher. In heavy rain the footbridge becomes wet and slippery.
How to get there
From the Altstadt, walk south along the Lech riverbank for about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also drive via the road leaving Füssen toward Austria; there is parking nearby.
Tip
Combine the Lechfall with Hohes Schloss and the monastery of St. Mang in the same morning on foot. The footbridge has steps: wear sturdy footwear.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lechfall
Do you have to pay to see the Lechfall?
No. It's an open site, and there is no entrance fee.
Is the Lechfall a natural waterfall?
The gorge is natural, but the current fall is an overflow dam from the late 18th century, built to harness the water's power.
Is it possible to walk from the center?
Yes. It's about a 15–20 minute walk from the Altstadt, following the river south.