Königssee
- Area
- 5.22 km²
- Max. depth
- 190 m
- Altitude
- 603 m
- From Munich
- 2.5 hrs
Königssee: a lake in Berchtesgaden Land at 603 m, covering 5.22 km² and up to 190 m deep. Königssee lies like a fjord between the Watzmann and the Hagen Mountains. Electric boats glide to St. Bartholomä, and there is hardly any way along the shore on foot.
About Königssee
The lake is almost 8 km long, up to 190 m deep and lies almost entirely within Berchtesgaden National Park. Its water is considered among the cleanest in Germany. The rock walls drop so steeply that no path circles the lake, so you see it by boat. Electric boats have run here since 1909 to keep engine noise and oil away. At the Echo Wall the boatman plays a short trumpet call that bounces back from the cliffs.
Can you swim here?
Swimming is allowed, but the water stays cold even in high summer. The easiest entry points are near the Seelände landing in Schönau. These fill up quickly on hot days; for more peace walk to the Malerwinkel or get off at St. Bartholomä.
Which walks are there?
The easy loop to the Malerwinkel leads to the famous postcard view. From St. Bartholomä a trail runs to the Ice Chapel below the Watzmann east face: entering the snow cave is life-threatening and forbidden. Experienced walkers continue from Salet to the Fischunkelalm behind Obersee.
- Malerwinkel at Königssee: 3 km, Easy
How do you get there?
Buses run from Berchtesgaden main station to Schönau am Königssee. Drivers use the large car park on Seestraße. In summer start early: the first boats are emptier, and at midday you can queue for a long time at the landing.
Towns on the shore: Schönau am Königssee. Travel time from Munich is a rough estimate by car or train. Area, depth and altitude from Wikipedia and Wikidata.
Frequently asked questions
How deep is Königssee?
Königssee is up to 190 m deep, which makes it one of Germany’s deepest lakes alongside Walchensee.
Can you walk around Königssee?
No. The rock walls reach the water, so there is no loop trail. On foot you reach only the northern shore; St. Bartholomä and Salet are best reached by boat.
Can you swim in Königssee?
Yes, swimming is allowed. The water is very cold and boats pass regularly, so stay close to the shore.
When is the best time to visit?
Early in the morning and in early autumn. In July and August crowds build from about 10 am; September has better light and emptier boats.
