A NATURAL GEM BELOW THE ZUGSPITZE
The Eibsee near Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Turquoise water, little islands and the Zugspitze towering above: the Eibsee is one of the most memorable natural sights around Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
A DAY BY THE WATER
Experience the Eibsee
One of Bavaria’s best-known mountain lakes lies directly below the Zugspitze. Clear water, a dramatic mountain backdrop and changing views along the lakeside path make it a wonderful place to explore. Enjoy a walk, a swim or a combined trip to the Zugspitze: there is easily enough here to fill a holiday day.
THE EIBSEE AT A GLANCE
Useful information for your visit
A few facts and tips to help you plan a day at the Eibsee.
1,000 m
The Eibsee lies at an altitude of around 1,000 metres, directly below the Zugspitze massif.
8.8 km shoreline
The circular walk offers ever-changing views of the water, islands and mountains.
32.5 m deep
The lake reaches a maximum depth of around 32.5 metres.
Cogwheel railway
Around 30 minutes from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to Eibsee station.
The Zugspitze next door
The lower station of the Zugspitze cable car is just a short walk from the lake.
Activities on the water
Walk, swim or, depending on the season, explore by paddleboard or boat.
A RELAXED ARRIVAL
Getting to the Eibsee without parking worries
The Eibsee is one of the region’s most popular attractions. The lake and cable car station can be very busy on fine days. Leaving the car behind can make for a more relaxed start.
By cogwheel train
The Bayerische Zugspitzbahn takes around 30 minutes from Garmisch-Partenkirchen to the Eibsee. The lakeshore is only about 300 metres from the station.
By bicycle or e-bike
Cycling or using an e-bike can be an enjoyable alternative for active guests. Choose a route that suits your fitness and check traffic conditions before setting off.
By car
You can drive to the Eibsee, but parking is chargeable. An alternative way of travelling is especially worthwhile on busy days.
ON FOOT BY THE WATER
Take your time at the Eibsee
To really experience the lake, allow time for the circular walk. New views open up along the way, taking in small islands, clear water and the steep slopes of the Zugspitze. Visit outside the busiest hours to enjoy a quieter side of the Eibsee.
MORE LAKES TO DISCOVER
Other lakes around Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The Eibsee is famous, but it is far from the only lake worth a visit. For peaceful surroundings, different landscapes or simply a change of scenery, there are plenty of lovely alternatives nearby.
Barmsee
A beautiful swimming lake near Krün with mountain views. Combine your visit with the Three Lakes Trail for a rewarding walk.
Geroldsee
This small moorland lake near Gerold sits among rolling meadows and mountains. The surrounding meadows are protected: enjoy them from the designated paths.
Rießersee
Just above Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the Riessersee is a lovely choice for a shorter outing close to Alpspitzherzl.
Staffelsee
A trip to the Blue Land near Murnau combines lakeside scenery and Alpine views with a very different atmosphere from the foot of the Zugspitze.
AFTER A DAY AT THE EIBSEE
Your holiday base for exploring the Eibsee
After a day between mountains and lake, Alpspitzherzl awaits. Our holiday apartment in Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers 62 m² of space for up to four guests – with two bedrooms, a spacious south-facing balcony and mountain views.
JUST ABOVE THE LAKE
Combine the Eibsee and Zugspitze
The Zugspitze cable car starts just a short walk from the lake. With an early start and enough time, you can visit both, or give the Zugspitze a day of its own.
