Date of travel: 2011, 2016, 2023, 2025
I simply love Tegernsse and why not? Of all Bavarian lakes, namely Schliersee, Chiemsee, Achensee, Spitzingsee, Ammersee or Starnberger see, Tegernsse is often described as Germany’s cleanest lake. It has got that Bavarian charm and is a top, relaxing day trip spot from Munich.
The lake’s scenic views, surrounding Alps and quaint villages make it a perfect gateway. Whether it is boating, hiking or just soaking in the views, there is something for everyone here.
Location:
Tegernsee is arguably the crown jewel of the Bavarian Alps. Located about 50 km south of Munich, it’s a stunning glacial lake known for its crystal-clear emerald water, high-end wellness retreats, and authentic Upper Bavarian culture.
Short History:
Tegernsee’s got a rich history with roots dating back to 746 AD, when monks founded a Benedictine Abbey here. The abbey played a big role in the region’s history. Later, it became a popular spot for artists and royals.
Geographical Highlights:
Surrounded by the Bavarian Alps, this pristine lake is situated at the level of 750 meter from sea level and is about 6.5 km long, 1.4 km wide, with a maximum depth of 72 meters.
The Towns Around the Lake: The lake is surrounded by five distinct municipalities, each with its own vibe:
Tegernsee Town: Home to the famous Herzoglich Bayerisches Brauhaus Tegernsee (the brewery) and the former Benedictine monastery.
Rottach-Egern: Famous for high-end boutiques, luxury hotels, and fine dining.
Bad Wiessee: Famous for its thermal baths the local casino.
Gmund: The gateway to the lake, offering the best panoramic views as you drive in from the north.
Kreuth: Located slightly south of the lake, it’s a hiker’s paradise and all about mountains.
Must-Do Activities:
The Bräustüberl Experience: You haven’t truly “done” Tegernsee until you’ve had a cold Helles beer and a pretzel at the Herzogliches Bräustüberl. It’s loud and quintessentially Bavarian.
Sauna on the Water: Visit the Monte Mare Seesauna in Tegernsee town, where you can jump directly into the lake after a session in a floating sauna.
Wallberg Mountain: Take the cable car (or hike) up to 1,722 meters. The view from the top is the most iconic panorama of the lake. In winter, it hosts one of Germany’s longest sledding runs. On a clear day, you can see the Zugspitze, highest mountain peak of Germany.
Lake Ferries: Boat rides on Tegernsee are a must! One can rent electric boats, row boats or take a guided tour. Sunset-cruises are especially stunning with the Alps glowing in the background.
For rental boats, prices vary between 15-20 Euro/hour for electric boats.
Tegernsee is home to some of the most scenic boat tours in the Bavarian Alps. Whether you’re looking for a quick hop between villages or a full 90-minute panorama tour, the “Bayerische Seenschifffahrt” (Bavarian Lake Shipping) has you covered.
There are two main ways to experience the lake:
The Grand Tour (Lines A & B): A full loop of the lake that takes approximately 90 minutes. It connects all major towns: Tegernsee, Rottach-Egern, Bad Wiessee, and Gmund.
The Southern Tour (Lines C & D): A shorter 60-minute loop focusing on the southern part of the lake (Tegernsee, Rottach-Egern, and Bad Wiessee).
Standard Tickets: A single leg (e.g., Tegernsee to Bad Wiessee) is roughly €6–€7.
Day Tickets: A day pass for the Grand Tour is approximately €15–€18
Our Experience:
We’re regulars at Schliersee, thanks to Karma group’s amazing resort at this picture perfect Alpine town. We use it as a base to explore Salzburg, Garmisch, Zugspitze, Innsbruck, and Neuschwanstein – love the easy access by train or car. In few occasions, we have even travelled up to Lake Constans, Black Forest zone, Halstadt, Achensee, Konigsee, Untersburg to name a few, by car from Schliersee.
Tegernsee’s just 20 minutes away by car, so we’ve been there a bunch, but always as a day trip.
Our fave routine? Hitting Bad Wiessee’s thermal baths, lunching in town, renting an electric boat (which led to a stunning sunset cruise), strolling the promenade, and devouring local food with excellent Helles or Dunkles(German beers)- perfection!
I must admit that Tegernsee has got me hooked! It is like the ultimate Bavarian package deal-pristine lake, Alps backdrop and those charming villages! Simply superb and spellbinding!
How to Reach:
The BRB (Bayerische Regiobahn) train runs hourly from Munich Central Station (Hauptbahnhof). It takes about an hour and is much more relaxing than navigating weekend traffic. If coming from Munich, remember the Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB) splits at Holzkirchen. Make sure you are sitting in the section labeled “Tegernsee” or you’ll end up in a different valley!
Where to Stay:
Tegernsee’s got plenty of options for you! You can find everything from cozy apartments to luxury hotels. Here are some top picks:
Luxury Hotels:
– Caro & Selig, Tegernsee, Autograph Collection: A 5-star hotel with stunning lake views, free Wi-Fi, and a spa.
– Das Tegernsee: A hotel with a full-service spa, near Lake Tegernsee, offering free breakfast and Wi-Fi.
– Spa & Resort Bachmair Weissach: A luxury resort with a 3,000 sqm wellness space, Japanese MIZU ONSEN SPA, and multiple dining options.
Holiday Rentals:
– Airbnb has plenty of options, with prices starting at ₹2000 per night.
Budget-Friendly Options:
– Der Westerhof Tegernsee Hotel: A spa hotel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking.
– Seehotel zur Post: A hotel with free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking, near Museum Tegernseer Tal
Timing: It is incredibly popular. If you want peace and quiet, visit on a weekday or during the “shoulder” seasons (May or October).
Tips:
The “Tegernsee Card”: If you stay overnight, check if your hotel provides this. It offers 50% discounts on local buses, ferries, and the Wallberg cable car.
Fun Fact: The lake is so clean it technically meets the standards for drinking water, though I’d still stick to the beer at the breweries!
