3 Idyllic Lakes for Your Next Summer Holiday in Europe

As summer draws to a close, thoughts turn to next year’s adventures and the hunt for the next perfect holiday destination begins. While beach resorts in hot climates have long been the go-to choice for a summer break, many travelers are searching for alternatives to overcrowded beaches and soaring temperatures – not to mention the ever increasing threat of wildfires impacting resorts across the continent.

So, what are the alternatives? If you’re seeking a summer escape that combines the best of swimming and sunbathing with a much lower stress factor, you’ll want to have some of Europe’s most beautiful lakes on your radar. Think relaxing beach days and crystal-clear waters, all with the serene backdrop of the Bavarian Alps – not to mention plenty of outdoor adventures and bags of culture on the side.

Three particularly idyllic lakes in southern Bavaria provide all this and more: Tegernsee, Schliersee with Spitzingsee, and Chiemsee – the “Bavarian Sea”.

Tegernsee: A Quintessential Bavarian Retreat

Holidaymakers can find as many as 14 beaches along the shores of Lake Tegernsee. Here at the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, the location offers a mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure. The perfectly clear water is perfect for swimming and water sports of all kind, with the “See- & Warmbad Rottach-Egern” being one of the most popular spots, with both easy access to the water as well as several outdoor pools and entertainment options.

Those looking for a break from swimming and sunbathing will find charming towns to explore, multiple spas as well as gentle walks and adventurous hikes for young and old. The dining options around Tegernsee are similarly vast, from simple kiosks to shady beer gardens and even Michelin starred restaurants.

5 Summer Holiday Activities at Tegernsee

• Swim at See- und Warmbad Rottach-Egern: Whether you head for the private beach, one of the outdoor pools, whirlpool or the water slides, a day at the Warmbad should be at the top of your list. Smaller kids will enjoy the splash pools whilst older kids and adults will appreciate the diving boards and lifeguards.
• Get back to nature in Kreuth: Imagine mountain streams and waterfalls, gentle hikes and stunning views. Head down to the designated mountaineering village of Kreuth to explore away from the crowds.
• Sail Across the Lake: Rent a boat (pedal or motor) or jump on the shuttle to explore Tegernsee from the water.
• Rejuvenate at the Sulfur Springs: One of Tegernsee’s most renowned spas is the Jod-Schwefelbad at Bad Wiessee, offering the strongest iodine-sulphur water in a modern 1,200 m² bath house on the shore of the lake.
• Dine at Herzogliches Bräustüberl: Traditional Bavarian cuisine can be found all around the lake but nowhere is it more enjoyable than at this historic brewery with outdoor seating on the water and views of the lake as your backdrop whilst you sip a summer Spritz or of course the best beer in Europe.

Accommodation

Tegernsee is the more expensive of the three lakes, with accommodation to be found in a variety of 5 star and wellness hotels. Nonetheless, holidaymakers will also find plenty of holiday apartments, farm stays and camping grounds all around the lake, making Tegernsee an affordable option for all budgets.

Schliersee & Spitzingsee: A Double Dose of Alpine Charm

Just a short drive from Tegernsee, Schliersee and Spitzingsee exude traditional vibes and are a perfect choice for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. On all sides of the lake holidaymakers can find grassy shores or stony beaches for a quiet swim or a relaxing afternoon in the sun. Those looking for a full-service experience can enjoy a fantastic day at the “Strandbad” – with sand!

The lake is surrounded by rolling hills and dense forests, making it perfect for leisurely walks or bike rides. For a more rugged experience, head up to Spitzingsee, just ten minutes away. This high-altitude lake is quieter and offers cooler waters that are perfect for a refreshing swim – perhaps after a morning hike. The area around Spitzingsee attracts outdoor enthusiasts all year round, with trails for all abilities and some breathtaking views.

Summer Holdiay Activities at Schliersee and Spitzingsee

• Swim at Strandbad Schliersee: For a small entry fee you can access the Strandbad with its grassy sunbathing and shallow sandy shores. A lifeguard is on duty here at all times, the restaurant serves great food and there’s even a beach bar for a sundowner.
• Cool off under a Waterfall: Just outside of Schliersee in Neuhaus, the Josefsthaler Waterfall is the perfect spot to find some shade. Kids can play in the shallow waters underneath the waterfall and the cascades are safe enough to jump right under.
• Pool with a view at Schliersberg Alm: A 40 minute hike or a 5 minute cable car ride brings you to the Schliersberg Alm with its very own outdoor pool looking out over Schliersee and to the mountains. Whilst the Alm does have a hotel, even those not staying here can enjoy a swim.
• Swim above 1000m at Spitzingsee: The cooler waters of Spitzingsee are perfect for a refreshing swim on a warm summer day. Even in peak season you can find peace and quiet, especially if you’re staying the night at the only hotel up here – when the daytrippers have left, the whole lake is yours.
• Take a hike: From a stroll around the lake to a 4 hour hike for the adventurous, this area has something for everyone looking for a break from the water. And where there’s a hike, there’s a hut…

Accommodation

Typically, accommodation around Schliersee and Spitzingsee can be found in holdiay apartments and hotels (both modern and traditional) as well as farm stays or camp sites. Farm stays are particularly popular with families and offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with the locals and of course provide plenty of entertainment for the kids.

Chiemsee: Ocean feels at the Bavarian Sea

Known as the “Bavarian Sea,” Chiemsee is the largest of the three lakes and offers a completely different experience to Tegernsee and Schliersee. Its vast expanse of water, dotted with islands, provides almost endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and exploring. The lake’s warmer, shallow beaches are perfect for families, while the deeper waters are perfect for those looking for a “proper” swim.

A highlight of any trip to Chiemsee is a visit to Herrenchiemsee, an opulent palace modelled after Versailles and built by King Ludwig II on one of the islands. Quaint towns such as Prien offer charming cafes and restaurants to relax, soak in the local atmosphere and of course enjoy some of the fantastic fish caught daily on the lake.

Summer Holiday Activities at Chiemsee

• Swim at Strandbad Übersee: Relax in a deckchair at this popular beach boasting soft sand, warm water, and stunning views of the mountains. With 50,000 m² space, finding a spot is never a problem – even at peak times. Stay long enough and you can enjoy the best sunet with a drink in hand at the Beach Bar.
• Windsurfing, SUP & Sailing: Take a course at one of the many surf schools around the lake or rent equipment and head out on to the water independantly. Boat hire of all kinds can be found on all shores.
• Cycle Around Chiemsee: The 60-kilometer cycle path around the lake is perfect for a day of exploration, with stops at picturesque villages and secluded beaches along the way.
• Take a Boat Tour of the Lake: Enjoy a leisurely boat tour of Chiemsee, stopping at the islands and taking in the views from the water. Spend the afternoon at Herreninsel exploring the palace and its beautifully manicured gardens.
• Visit Fraueninsel: This peaceful island is home to a historic monastery, artisan workshops and the freshest fish – as well as its own idyllic beaches.

Accommodation

Chiemsee is particularly popular with campers – both tent and caravan. Holidaymakers can of course find just as many options for bed and breakfasts, hotels, as well as apartments and farm stays on all shores of the lake. The

Is a lakeside holiday right for you?

The demand for lakeside holdiays is growing at a somewhat staggering pace. And it’s not hard to understand why. Warm, sunny days spent sunbathing and taking a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Bavarian Alps. Tegernsee, Schliersee with Spitzingsee, and Chiemsee offer a unique mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture, making them ideal alternatives to the classic beach holiday.

Getting There

All three lakes are easily accessible in around 1 hour both by (rental) car or train from nearby Munich and its international airport. Although a car may provide somewhat more flexibility – and a chance to drive on the infamous German Autobahn – the public transport network is fast and efficient, with all lakes having bus shuttles around their shores.

Servus Schliersee Tip: Did you know, Munich is considered the most northerly city of Italy? Otherwise known for its lively beer gardens and rich cultural scene, the lifestyle similarities are striking. We highly recommend tagging on a couple of days in Munich as part of your trip.