Usually, Germany is (fairly) associated with thriving economy and high life standards of its residents.
At the same time, natural wealth and attractions of Germany remain without due attention (completely undeservedly!).
Eibsee is a crystal-clear natural wonder at the foot of Zugspitze (the highest mountain in Germany). Created by the fall of gigantic rock during the last Ice Age, Eibsee is fairly considered one of the most beautiful and purest lakes in the Bavarian Alps.
The first thing you should do coming to the lake – renting a boat.
Maria Fomina
Summer months usually considered the best time to visit Eibsee – sunny weather, cloudless sky, refreshing water. However, this also means a lot if tourists, so the place becomes a little bit too crowded for relaxation and enjoyment with the natural beauty. That is why my ideal months to visit Eibsee would be off-season months – either May or September – the weather is still very warm and welcoming, but the environment is more tranquil and relaxed due to the lack of tourists.
The first thing you should do coming to the lake – renting a boat. Half-hour cruise around the lake with breathtaking views is quite enough (not to get too tired). Enjoy the calmness and pureness of the water and dramatic mountain scenery around the lake and feed the ducks (that might approach your boat).
The second important thing to do when at Eibsee to take a loop trail around the lake, for example, the classic one – Eibsee-Rundweg: route length is 7,2 km. and takes about 2 hours to complete it. This path is leading around the lake (sometimes right next to the water and sometimes a bit over it) permanently providing you with amazing views: if you think that you have found the most beautiful spot – just walk 100 meters further and recall your words
At most parts of the path, it’s also possible to hike off-the-beaten-path and go either directly to the lake or find some hidden corners. However, good shoes and curiosity are your best friends ;).
I guess you must have realized that I am absolutely in love with Eibsee. Of course, taking pictures in one thing, but this place is something what can be captured by any camera. You should plan the whole day there, do not come solely to take pictures. There is so much more to do there.
To-do list for budget travelers:
- Rent a yellow paddleboat;
- Go hiking around the lake;
- Go off the beaten path to find places hidden from humans` sight;
- Take a lot of pictures (the best times for taking pictures are morning and couple of hours before the sunset – the light during those hours is very soft and will help you to create more dreamlike shots).
- Have a picnic by the lake with the view to Zugspitze.
Eibsee is located around 13 km southwest of the center of Garmisch-Patenkirchen, and around 100 km away from Munich. However, thanks to the perfect infrastructure in Germany, it is possible to get there even if you are a student and you do not have a car.
How to get to Eibsee (from Munich):
- Train from München Hbf. to Garmisch-Partenkirchen (1,5 hours without changes);
- In Garmisch-Partenkirchen 3 minutes’ walk from the train station to the bus stop;
- 20-30 minutes by EIBSEE bus to the lake.
Enjoy your time at Eibsee and don’t forget: Never stop exploring!
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