Hintersee
- Area
- 0.16 km²
- Max. depth
- 23 m
- Altitude
- 790 m
- From Munich
- 2.5 hrs
Hintersee: a lake in Berchtesgaden Land at 790 m, covering 0.16 km² and up to 23 m deep. Little Hintersee at Ramsau sits beneath the Hochkalter and Reiter Alm. Painters came here in the 19th century; today walkers come for the Magic Forest.
About Hintersee
This green lake at 790 m was formed by a rockslide whose boulders now make up the mossy Zauberwald, or Magic Forest. The Ramsauer Ache flows through it and turns loud and wild below the lake. Ramsau lies within the Berchtesgaden Land biosphere reserve.
Can you swim here?
The lake is cool and not a classic swimming spot, though rowing boats can be hired in summer. For a warm swimming day, head to Thumsee instead.
Which walks are there?
The loop around the lake takes a relaxed hour and suits children. From the Zauberwald car park follow the path along the river. Experienced walkers head up towards the Blaueis Hut or into the Klausbach Valley.
How do you get there?
Buses run from Berchtesgaden via Ramsau to Hintersee. By car, take the German Alpine Road and use the car parks along the shore.
Towns on the shore: Ramsau. Travel time from Munich is a rough estimate by car or train. Area, depth and altitude from Wikipedia and Wikidata.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the walk around Hintersee?
About an hour without stops. The path is nearly flat and fine with children.
What is the Magic Forest?
A rockslide area east of the lake with moss-covered boulders and old trees, with the Ramsauer Ache rushing through.
