Obersee
A serene alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its mirror-like reflections and dramatic waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best light for reflections
Obersee
Best Time
Best light for reflections
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene alpine lake in Bavaria, Germany, famous for its mirror-like reflections and dramatic waterfall.
"The view is one of a kind, definitely worth the effort and time."
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Swimwear!
The water is incredibly clear and inviting for a dip on warm days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Obersee Lake
Southern end of Königssee
Crystal-clear waters mirroring majestic Alps, a truly serene and enchanting natural spectacle.
Röthbachfall Waterfall
At the far end of Obersee
Germany's highest waterfall, cascading dramatically down the mountainside, a breathtaking sight.
Fischunkelalm
Near Obersee
A charming alpine pasture with traditional huts and grazing cows, offering a picturesque rural scene.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Boat Ride is Essential
Footwear and Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Swimwear!
The water is incredibly clear and inviting for a dip on warm days.
📸 Capture the Reflections
Visit on a sunny day for the best mirror-like views of the mountains in the lake.
☕️ Refreshments Available
There's a cafe/restaurant near the lake for drinks and snacks.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
Trails can be rocky and wet. Hiking boots are recommended for comfort and safety.
💧 Pack Swimwear!
The water is incredibly clear and inviting for a dip on warm days.
📸 Capture the Reflections
Visit on a sunny day for the best mirror-like views of the mountains in the lake.
☕️ Refreshments Available
There's a cafe/restaurant near the lake for drinks and snacks.
🚶♀️ Easy Hike from Salet
The walk from the Salet boat dock to Obersee is about 15-20 minutes and mostly flat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Obersee for its breathtaking natural beauty, with the stunning reflections and the majestic Röthbachfall waterfall being standout features. The boat trip across Königssee is also a highlight, offering scenic views. While generally accessible, some note that certain trails can be uneven, and finding a quiet spot can be challenging during peak times.
"Absolutely a lovely hike, around 1 hour from Salet (not too difficult, possible with normal sport shoes in my case)
The view is one of a kind, definitely worth the effort and time"
Elsie
"Beautiful blue lake, you can reach it only buy taking the boat across konigsee lake and start hiking for almost an hour, be careful there are some rocky stairs that are usually wet so better be in a hiking shoes, you can swim in the lake on summer days, there is a free toilet and a cafe."
Hassan Mohamed
"Amazing experience! Boat rides to St Bartholomew are beautiful with knowledgeable guides. Plenty of shops, tourist shops, and restaurants. Lots of trails to walk and hike. St Bartholomew’s is pretty stroller friendly and so is the boat to Obersee. Some trails surrounding are not so easy to push a stroller and a baby carrier or rucksack would be better!"
Alex Baker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Munich, take a train to Berchtesgaden Hauptbahnhof, then a bus (line 841) to Königssee. From Königssee, you'll take an electric boat to Salet, which is the starting point for Obersee.
No, there are no roads directly to Obersee. Access is via boat across Königssee and then a hike. Parking is available at Königssee.
The electric boat ride across Königssee is scenic, passing by St. Bartholomä Church. Guides provide information. The journey to Salet is part of the experience.
Yes, Obersee is accessible via a combination of train, bus, and electric boat services from major cities like Munich.
The total journey from Munich can take around 3-4 hours, including train, bus, and boat travel, plus the short hike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You need to purchase tickets for the electric boat ride across Königssee to Salet, which is the gateway to Obersee.
Boat tickets typically range from €20-€30 for a round trip, depending on the season and any specific stops.
There are no separate entrance fees for Obersee itself; the cost is primarily for the boat transportation.
It's advisable to check the official Königssee boat company website for online booking options, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Boat operating hours vary seasonally. It's best to check the official schedule for the Königssee boat company, as they typically run from May to October.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy the stunning lake views, hike to Röthbachfall waterfall, visit Fischunkelalm, and even swim in the lake on warm days. +1
The hike from the Salet boat dock to Obersee is generally considered easy, taking about 15-20 minutes on a relatively flat path.
Yes, swimming is possible in Obersee during the summer months, but be prepared for very cold glacial water.
Yes, there are toilets available near the Salet boat dock, and a restaurant/cafe is also located nearby.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the boats and on the trails around Obersee, but always check specific regulations.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire shoreline offers incredible views. Look for spots with clear reflections of the mountains and the Röthbachfall waterfall.
Early morning or late afternoon on a sunny day provides the best light for capturing the vibrant colors and reflections.
Drone usage is often restricted in national parks. It's crucial to check the Berchtesgaden National Park regulations regarding drone flights before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors and reduce glare on the water.
The area around the Röthbachfall waterfall and the traditional boathouses offer iconic photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
📸 Photographers
Aim for sunny days for the best mirror effects and vibrant colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Königssee Boat Experience
Tickets for the boat are purchased at the Königssee boat station. It's highly recommended to buy them in advance, especially during peak season, to avoid long queues. The boats depart regularly, and the ride itself is a significant part of the overall experience, offering breathtaking views of the steep mountain walls and the pristine lake.
While the boat ride is essential for reaching Obersee, it's also a destination in itself. The clarity of the water and the dramatic alpine scenery make for an unforgettable journey. Consider taking the boat tour that includes a stop at St. Bartholomä for a brief exploration before heading to Salet.
Hiking and Nature at Obersee
Once you reach Obersee, the main attraction is the Röthbachfall, Germany's highest waterfall, which plunges dramatically from the sheer rock face at the far end of the lake. The hike to the base of the waterfall is an extension of the walk from Salet and offers spectacular views.
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the pristine environment. The clear, cold glacial water of Obersee is incredibly inviting, and on warm summer days, brave visitors can even take a refreshing dip.
The area is a haven for photographers, with the mirrored reflections of the mountains in the lake creating surreal and captivating scenes. Photography Tips for Obersee
Look for compositions that include the Röthbachfall waterfall, the traditional boathouses, and the grazing cows at Fischunkelalm for iconic shots.
Be patient; the weather in the Alps can change quickly, and even a slightly overcast day can offer a moody, dramatic atmosphere, as seen in some rainy day shots. Remember that Obersee is located within Berchtesgaden National Park, so be mindful of any regulations regarding photography, especially concerning drones.
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