Seenlandschaft Bayern
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Obersee

Updated:

Comic drawing of Obersee with mountains and water
Area
0.57 km²
Max. depth
51 m
Altitude
613 m
From Munich
3 hrs

Obersee: a lake in Berchtesgaden Land at 613 m, covering 0.57 km² and up to 51 m deep. Obersee lies behind Königssee and can only be reached on foot from the Salet landing. On a calm day the rock walls reflect almost perfectly in the water.

About Obersee

A rockslide once cut this 0.57 km² lake off from Königssee; only a narrow barrier separates them today. The water reaches 51 m in depth. At the southern end the Röthbach Falls drop about 470 m, the highest waterfall in Germany.

Can you swim here?

A dip is possible, but the shore is natural and the water very cold. National park rules apply strictly: stay on the paths and leave no litter.

Which walks are there?

It is a level 15-minute walk from Salet to the northern shore. A trail along the western bank then takes about 45 minutes to the Fischunkelalm, which is run in summer. The path is narrow and slippery when wet, so wear sturdy shoes.

How do you get there?

Take the boat from Schönau to the last stop, Salet. Check the time of the last return boat, otherwise only a long mountain route remains.

Our tipIn the morning the water is usually smooth and the boathouse reflects in the lake. Most people come for that photo.

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 do you get to Obersee?

By boat across Königssee to Salet, then a walk of about 15 minutes.

How long should I allow?

At least half a day including the boat ride, or five to six hours with the Fischunkelalm.

Lakes nearby