Badersee Grainau
A serene, privately-owned lake in Grainau, Germany, famous for its emerald waters, abundant trout, and peaceful atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Badersee Grainau
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, privately-owned lake in Grainau, Germany, famous for its emerald waters, abundant trout, and peaceful atmosphere.
"Way less crowded than Eibsee. It is beautiful and so peaceful and quiet."
🚗 Parking Challenges
Limited parking available; consider parking on side streets or using public transport.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Enjoy the views, but remember swimming is prohibited as it's a private lake.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Emerald Waters
Badersee
The lake's striking emerald-green water is a sight to behold, especially when reflecting autumn colors.
Peaceful Lakeside Stroll
Badersee
A short, easy walk around the lake offers breathtaking views and a serene escape.
Abundant Trout
Badersee
Crystal clear waters reveal numerous trout, adding to the lake's natural charm.
The Nixe Statue
Badersee
Discover a mysterious bronze statue of a nymph submerged in the lake's depths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds at Badersee
Respect the Rules
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Challenges
Limited parking available; consider parking on side streets or using public transport.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Enjoy the views, but remember swimming is prohibited as it's a private lake.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The emerald water and surrounding mountains offer stunning photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk
A short, scenic loop around the lake takes about 20 minutes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Challenges
Limited parking available; consider parking on side streets or using public transport.
🚫 No Swimming Allowed
Enjoy the views, but remember swimming is prohibited as it's a private lake.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The emerald water and surrounding mountains offer stunning photo opportunities.
🚶♀️ Easy Lakeside Walk
A short, scenic loop around the lake takes about 20 minutes.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Paths
Leashed dogs are welcome on the paths around the lake.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Badersee is praised for its stunning emerald waters, peaceful atmosphere, and abundant trout, offering a serene escape often compared favorably to the busier Eibsee. While swimming is prohibited due to its private ownership, visitors enjoy the scenic walking paths and picnic spots. Limited parking is a minor drawback, but the breathtaking views and tranquility make it a worthwhile visit.
"A very beautiful peaceful lake. You can watch the fishes and ducks swim in the lake. You can also feed the fish. I also went for a morning run around the lake. Very beautiful and relaxing. There is also a very cute fish food dispenser which I forgot to take a picture of. If anyone is reading this and visiting soon please add a photo of it haha."
Puja Sharma
"Small lake near a big hotel. Trouts everywhere. Privately owned by third party ( not hotel) and no swimming permitted. We had our picknick on a bench near the water. Nice and quiet probably because it’s not a swimming lake😁."
Ammah
"Way less crowded than Eibsee.
It is beautiful and so peaceful and quiet.
We stayed at Hotel am Badersee. The lake view from the breakfast area was spectacular."
Tanya Rai
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Badersee is easily accessible from Grainau. You can reach Grainau by train via the Zugspitzbahn. From Grainau, it's a short walk or drive to the lake. Some visitors recommend parking in side streets if the hotel parking is full.
Parking directly at Badersee is limited and primarily for the Hotel am Badersee. Visitors often find parking on nearby side streets.
Yes, the Zugspitzbahn stops in Grainau, making it a convenient option. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the lake.
Badersee is located near the more famous Eibsee. Some visitors enjoy combining a visit to both, often walking from Badersee to Eibsee. 
The most scenic way to reach Grainau is by the historic Zugspitzbahn railway. Alternatively, you can drive, but be mindful of parking availability.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Badersee is a natural attraction and generally does not require an entrance ticket. Enjoy the scenic beauty freely.
Badersee is an outdoor natural site, so it's accessible at all times. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best experience and safety.
Yes, Badersee is privately owned, which is why swimming is not permitted. Respect the private property and designated areas.
No, swimming is not allowed in Badersee as it is a privately owned lake. Visitors are asked to respect this rule.
There are no entrance fees for Badersee itself. However, if you drive, you may encounter parking fees depending on where you find a spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, admire the clear emerald waters, spot trout, and take in the stunning mountain scenery. It's a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Yes, there is a short and easy walking path that circles the lake, offering beautiful views from all angles. It takes about 20 minutes to complete.
Absolutely! The vibrant emerald water, surrounding mountains, and reflections make Badersee a photographer's dream, especially in autumn.
Picnicking is a popular activity at Badersee. You can find benches along the path to enjoy your meal with a view.
The Nixe is a mysterious, life-sized bronze statue of a nymph submerged in the lake's clear water, adding a touch of intrigue to the scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there are no restaurants directly on the lake, the nearby Hotel am Badersee offers dining options. You can also pack a picnic to enjoy by the water.
The closest dining options are typically in the village of Grainau or at the Hotel am Badersee. Bringing your own snacks and drinks is a good idea.
Hotel am Badersee offers dining with spectacular lake views from its breakfast area, providing a convenient and scenic culinary experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, especially during autumn when the colors are most vibrant.
The reflections of the mountains in the emerald water, the Nixe statue, and the surrounding autumn foliage are particularly popular for photos.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery, while a polarizing filter can enhance the water's colors and reduce glare.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. However, always be respectful of other visitors and private property.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to ensure a more serene environment for your family. The accessibility of the paths makes it easy to navigate with strollers, and the natural beauty provides a calming backdrop for a family day out.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
+1The stunning alpine scenery and the vibrant lake colors provide constant visual rewards. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture the dramatic landscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, or the rich hues of autumn. The peacefulness of Badersee allows for a more contemplative experience of nature compared to more crowded destinations.
📸 Photographers
Look for opportunities to capture the unique Nixe statue submerged in the lake, adding an element of mystery to your shots. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the best natural light, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the water's color. A polarizing filter is highly recommended to deepen the greens and blues of the water and reduce surface glare.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Badersee's Emerald Waters
The reflections of the majestic Bavarian Alps in the still, green water create a postcard-perfect scene. The peaceful atmosphere, amplified by the absence of swimming, allows for uninterrupted enjoyment of this natural wonder. Many visitors describe the lake as mystical and serene, a stark contrast to the busier Eibsee nearby.
Capturing the Color
To best capture the vibrant emerald color, visit on a sunny day. Early morning or late afternoon light can add a magical glow. Using a polarizing filter on your camera can further enhance the saturation of the water and reduce surface glare, making the colors pop even more.
Navigating Badersee and its Surroundings
For those arriving by car, parking can be a bit of a challenge. The immediate vicinity of the lake is primarily private parking for the Hotel am Badersee. Visitors often find success parking on nearby side streets in Grainau and walking the rest of the way. This approach also allows for a more immersive experience of the charming village.
Connecting to Eibsee
Badersee serves as a convenient starting point or stopover for exploring the wider region. Many visitors combine their trip to Badersee with a visit to the more famous Eibsee. A scenic trail connects the two lakes, offering a moderate hike with rewarding views. This makes Badersee an excellent option for those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Zugspitze region without the intense crowds of Eibsee.
+1The Mystery of the Nixe
The Nixe adds a unique, almost mythical quality to the lake. While not visible from the surface without clear conditions or diving equipment, its presence is a fascinating detail that sparks the imagination. It's a reminder of the folklore and legends that often accompany natural landscapes, making Badersee more than just a beautiful body of water.
Experiencing the Nixe's Presence
While you can't directly interact with the Nixe, its story enhances the overall atmosphere of Badersee. It's a topic of local lore and a point of interest for those who appreciate the hidden stories within natural settings. The mystery surrounding the Nixe contributes to the 'mystical' feel that visitors often associate with Badersee.
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