EIBSEE

Eibsee (literally translates to “yew lake”) is a stunning lake in Germany at the foot of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain. It is easily accessible from Garmisch-Partenkirchen (a 15-minute drive), Munich (an hour and a half-drive) or even how we arrived, which was from Füssen (an hour drive). Put “Eibsee Hotel” into your GPS to find the perfect place to start your journey.

There are two parking lots (P1 and P2) at Eibsee, which are open to the public between 5am and 10pm. You will be able to pay for your parking with either a credit card or with cash on your way out. Once parked you will notice that you are quite close to the Seilbahn Zugspitze cableway valley station. You can easily combine a visit to Eibsee with a cable car journey up the mountain of Zugspitze if you so choose!

Depending on the time of year that you are visiting, there are different activities to do at Eibsee, like a lake swim or a boat rental. We opted for a hike of the Eibsee Circular Route. This is a two-hour hike, starting at the parking lot. We recommend going counter-clockwise, as you will see some of the best landscapes first! The reflections off the water are insane, and the walk is relatively flat and easy. There are clear signs and benches to stop at and relax.

Eibsee can become very crowded, so we would suggest going very early in the morning or during an off time of the year to feel the serenity the lake has to offer. We visited during a late afternoon October day, and while the parking lot was packed, we were able to find a parking spot with ease and we did not run into many people on our walk. Enjoy Eibsee!