Located south-west of Munich, the Ammersee is a picturesque lake that enchants visitors with its tranquil beauty and rich cultural heritage. Surrounded by charming villages and towns and rolling hills, the Ammersee is the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and nature.
The famous lakeside promenade in Herrsching (Youtube film)
Landscape: With its crystal-clear water and picturesque landscapes, the Ammersee is a feast for the eyes for nature lovers. The lake covers an area of around 47 square kilometres and offers numerous opportunities for leisurely boat trips and relaxing walks along the shore. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque villages, Ammersee reveals the idyllic beauty of the Bavarian countryside.
Water activities: For the adventurous, the Ammersee offers a variety of water activities. Sailing enthusiasts can navigate the waters of the lake and windsurfers can take advantage of the refreshing breeze that blows across the wide expanse. Kayaks and paddleboards are popular options for those looking for a more relaxed water experience. There are several hire options around the lake, making it easy for visitors to pursue their passion on the water
Charming towns and villages: The shores of Lake Ammersee are dotted with charming towns and villages, each with its own unique character. As one of the larger cities, Dießen has an old town with cobblestone streets and traditional Bavarian architecture. Visitors can stroll through the local shops, enjoy delicious local cuisine at waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals.
Culture: Lake Ammersee is not only a natural wonder, but also a cultural center with a rich history. Located on a hill on the lakeshore, Andechs Monastery (see our article about Andechs) offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is home to a brewery where visitors can sample traditional Bavarian beer. Andechs can be reached in about 1 hour on foot from Herrsching am Ammersee (S-Bahn) or by bus. The Dießen Shipping Museum displays old boats and artifacts and you can learn about the region’s maritime history.
New and great: Virtual reality tour through the Andechs monastery with VR glasses (directly at the monastery): More information and booking
By train to Ammersee: Places like Dießen on the west bank of the lake can be reached with local trains about every half hour, changing from Munich. You can reach Herrsching on the eastern shore of Lake Ammersee directly; it is a terminus of the Munich S-Bahn.
Hiking and cycling paths: Nature lovers can explore the varied landscape around Lake Ammersee on well-developed hiking and cycling paths. The Five Lakes Region, which includes Ammersee, is a network of winding paths through forests, meadows and hills. These trails are suitable for varying levels of difficulty and are accessible to both walkers and avid hikers. The circumnavigation of Lake Ammersee, almost 40 km, is an ideal bike tour. Then you can also look at the great bird sanctuaries in the south of the lake.
Lake Ammersee is known for the natural beauty and cultural wealth that Bavaria has to offer. It is quieter, more natural and more rural than the other large, neighboring lake, Lake Starnberg. Whether you’re looking for relaxation by the water, outdoor adventure or local tradition, Lake Ammersee has a lot to offer.
The other big lake in the area is Lake Starnberg (our articule)
Our articule about Lake Garda in Italy