Best lakes around Kirchsee refers primarily to the Kirchsee in Upper Bavaria, a picturesque moor lake located approximately 30 km south of Munich near Sachsenkam. This lake is part of the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor nature reserve, offering natural surroundings and moor meadows. It is recognized for its excellent water quality and serves as a popular bathing lake in the Oberland region. The area provides broad views of the Alpine panorama.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
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The bathing area is very nice, but not too big and therefore full to overcrowded when the weather is nice.
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A really beautiful lake with a great view, great for hiking and cycling.
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Maikiki Café and kiosk on the forest path parallel to the north shore.
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The Kirchsee in Upper Bavaria is known for its excellent water quality, making it one of the warmest and most beautiful bathing lakes in the Oberland region. It is also part of the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor nature reserve, offering magnificent natural surroundings and broad views of the Alpine panorama. Visitors particularly enjoy the moor meadows that bloom with colorful flowers in summer.
Yes, the Kirchsee is a popular bathing lake. The north shore features two designated bathing areas with jetties, a kiosk, and toilets. A quieter bathing area is available on the south shore, accessible by a walk or bike ride from Kloster Reutberg. The lake's warm moor water and excellent water quality (EU directive certified) make it ideal for swimming.
The Kirchsee is nestled within the Ellbach- und Kirchseemoor nature reserve, offering diverse natural beauty. You can expect to see picturesque moor landscapes, lush moor meadows, and the clear, dark water of the lake itself. From various points, especially the north bank, you can enjoy broad views of the Alpine panorama, including peaks like Wendelstein on clear days.
Yes, there are several hiking trails around Kirchsee. You can explore routes like the Kirchsee – Pilgrimage Church of Maria Elend loop or the Ellbach and Kirchsee Moor loop. These trails offer opportunities to experience the nature reserve and scenic views.
Absolutely. The area around Kirchsee offers various cycling routes. For road cycling, you might consider the Beer garden monastery Reutberg – Kirchseemoor Scenic Road loop. These routes provide a great way to explore the picturesque surroundings.
Yes, Kirchsee is very family-friendly. Many of the bathing spots and viewpoints, such as View over the Kirchsee and Bathing spot with a view of Kloster Reutberg and Wendelstein, are categorized as family-friendly. The warm, clean water and natural surroundings make it an ideal spot for a family day out.
The Kirchsee is a year-round destination. In summer, it's popular for swimming in its warm moor water, with the moor meadows blooming colorfully. In winter, when the lake freezes over, it transforms into a popular spot for ice skating and curling, offering a different kind of outdoor experience.
Yes, there are options for refreshments. On the north shore, you'll find a kiosk near the bathing areas. Additionally, the Maikiki Café & Kiosk is located on the forest path parallel to the north bank. The nearby Kloster Reutberg also has a well-known monastery restaurant.
The Kirchsee offers several picturesque views. From the north bank, you can enjoy a broad view of the Alpine panorama over the crescent-shaped lake. Specific viewpoints like View over the Kirchsee provide perspectives of the mountains, while View of Reutberg offers sights of the monastery and adjacent forest.
The Kirchsee is easily accessible, located just one and a half kilometers from the village of Sachsenkam. There is a chargeable parking site available on the north shore near the bathing areas. Information regarding specific public transport routes should be checked locally, but its proximity to Sachsenkam suggests reasonable access.
Visitors frequently praise the Kirchsee for its beautiful natural surroundings, excellent water quality, and the warmth of its moor water, making it ideal for swimming. The broad views of the Alpine panorama from the north bank are also a highlight, as are the blooming moor meadows in summer. Many appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, especially on the quieter east bank.
Yes, the area around Kirchsee is suitable for running. You can find various running trails, such as the Lake Kirchsee – View of the Kirchsee loop, which offers moderate distances for a good workout while enjoying the scenery.


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