Konigssee
About
Lake Königssee, nestled in the heart of the Berchtesgaden National Park, is a glacial lake hidden beneath the imposing Watzmann East Wall. The emerald‑green waters reflect towering cliffs and echo the sound of a trumpet played by its boat captains. A short e‑lectric boat ride from the village of Schönau brings visitors to the stunning pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä and the tranquil Obersee, where Germany’s tallest waterfall, the Röthbach, cascades over 450 m downward. The lake’s crystal‑clear water has earned it a reputation as Germany’s cleanest lake, and it is accessible by boat only—no roads or paths approach its steep shore. Seasonal boat services run from mid‑April to mid‑October, offering families, photographers, and nature lovers an unforgettable, low‑noise excursion through one of Bavaria’s most dramatic alpine landscapes.
Highlights
- Watzmann Mountain Backdrop
- Echo of the Trumpet
- St. Bartholomä Pilgrimage Church
- Obersee and Röthbach Waterfall
Must-See Areas
Good to Know
Good for
Best time to visit
The best times to visit Lake Königssee are from late spring to early autumn (May – September) when the weather is mild, the boat schedules are most frequent, and the scenery is at its most vibrant.
At a glance
- Typical visit: about 3 hours