Top 20 Lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser
Best lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser are situated within the Wilder Kaiser nature reserve, a region characterized by its prominent mountain range and clear waters. This area offers a natural landscape with opportunities for outdoor activities centered around its numerous lakes. The lakes here are often fed by mountain springs, contributing to their clarity and natural appeal. Visitors can find a variety of lake environments, from bathing lakes to scenic viewpoints.
Best lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser
- The most popular lakes is Walchsee South Shore, a lake known for its mountain panorama and swimming opportunities. It is considered excellent for a refreshing swim in summer.
- Another must-see spot is Hintersteiner See, a bathing lake located within the Wilder Kaiser nature reserve. It features crystal-clear water and a path suitable for pushchairs around part of the lake.
- Visitors also love Filzalm Lake, a lake where visitors can swim. It offers wooden loungers for relaxation.
- Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser is known for natural bathing lakes and scenic mountain lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, including those with designated swimming areas and those ideal for circular walks.
- The lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2400 upvotes and over 800 photos shared across 12 highlights.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
Hintersteiner See
Highlight • Lake
A beautiful path leads around the lake, which is asphalted from the car park to the Goingstätthof snack station to the west and is therefore also suitable for pushchairs. The south bank, on the other hand, rises slightly and offers fantastic views of the Wilder Kaiser reflected in the water. A popular photo motif!
A large parking lot is available for a fee. The circular route is also a wonderful hike in winter!
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Ellmi's Magic World on the Hartkaiser
Highlight • Rest Area
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View of Hintersteiner See
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Walchsee South Shore
Highlight • Lake
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Hintersteiner Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful lake with numerous bathing spots and benches that invite you to linger.
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From Hinterstein you can undertake tours of varying levels of difficulty at the foot of the Wilder Kaiser. There are only limited parking spaces available for cars, and they are subject to a fee. There is a free hiking bus.
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Great lake with numerous bathing spots 👍 it's worth driving around it, superbly laid out paths
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Mega view 🤩👍... of the Hintersteiner See and the Wilder Kaiser
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Excellent for a refreshing swim in summer
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Always a nice destination. You can drive or hike around the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser are best for swimming?
For swimming, Hintersteiner See is highly recommended. It's a bathing lake within the Wilder Kaiser nature reserve, known for its crystal-clear water and a public bathing beach. Another excellent option for a refreshing swim is Walchsee South Shore, which also offers a magnificent mountain panorama.
Are there family-friendly activities or lakes suitable for children in the area?
Yes, several lakes and nearby attractions are family-friendly. Hintersteiner See has a path around part of the lake suitable for pushchairs. Additionally, Ellmi's Magic World on the Hartkaiser, located near the lakes, is a paradise for children with playgrounds, an adventure magic round, a lookout tower, and a mini climbing park.
What are the options for hiking around the lakes?
There are numerous hiking opportunities around the lakes. A popular choice is the circular path around Hintersteiner See, which offers impressive views of the Wilder Kaiser reflected in the water. The south bank of the lake provides wonderful views of the turquoise water. You can find more hiking routes in the region, including those around the lakes, by visiting the Hiking around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser guide.
Is there parking available at the bathing lakes?
Yes, a large parking lot is available for a fee at Hintersteiner See, making it convenient for visitors to access the lake and its surrounding paths.
Can I visit the lakes during winter?
Yes, the lakes are also beautiful in winter. The circular route around Hintersteiner See is a wonderful hike even in winter, provided you have firm footwear. The serene winter landscape offers a unique experience.
Are there any cafes or refreshment options near the lakes?
Yes, around Hintersteiner See, there are nice restaurants on or near the lake that complete the visitor experience, offering opportunities for refreshment after a walk or swim.
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes?
The lakes offer breathtaking views, especially of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range. For instance, the View of Hintersteiner See highlight provides expansive vistas of the lake with the mountains as a backdrop. The south bank of Hintersteiner See is particularly known for views of the Wilder Kaiser reflected in the water.
Are there any easy or accessible paths around the lakes?
Yes, around Hintersteiner See, the path from the car park to the Goingstätthof snack station on the west side is asphalted and suitable for pushchairs, making it accessible for families and those seeking an easier walk. The north shore of the lake is also accessible to everyone thanks to a driveway.
What other outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?
Beyond hiking, the region around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser offers various outdoor activities. You can explore gravel biking routes, such as the 'View of the Wilder Kaiser – Hintersteiner Lake loop from Ellmau', or enjoy road cycling. For more details on these activities, refer to the Gravel biking around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser guide.
What makes the lakes around Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser special?
The lakes in this region are special due to their location within the Wilder Kaiser nature reserve, characterized by prominent mountains and clear, often spring-fed waters. They offer a variety of environments, from natural bathing lakes like Hintersteiner See to scenic viewpoints and opportunities for refreshing swims with mountain panoramas at places like Walchsee South Shore.
How long does it take to hike around Hintersteiner See?
A full circular hike around Hintersteiner See typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. The trail is approximately 5.28 km (3.3 miles) long and is generally considered an easy to moderate walk.
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