6 German Alpine Lakes You Can Reach Without a Car

 Over the past few years, I’ve slowly explored the German Alps — not with a car or a heavy pack, but with a train pass, a camera, and one waterproof backpack. These six alpine lakes are among the most beautiful in Bavaria, and each one is accessible by public transport.

They’re proof that you don’t need big gear or big plans to go far.

Clear emerald waters of Eibsee with Zugspitze in the background, Bavarian Alps

① Eibsee

Best time: June–October

Hiking time: 1hr 50min loop

Transport: RB6 to Garmisch → Bus 9840 (~2h 23m)

Classic reflections, deep green forest trails, and clear alpine water. I used a 20L waterproof camera backpack to carry a mirrorless camera, two lenses, and a small lunch. It was more than enough.


② Walchensee

Best time: May–October

Hiking time: 3–4 hours (non-loop)

Transport: RB66 to Kochel → Bus 9608

Wide open lakeside trails, perfect for long exposures and drone shots. I stayed until golden hour, using a lightweight tripod and ND filters I almost didn’t pack.


③ Schrecksee

Best time: July–September

Hiking time: 5–6 hours (advanced)

Transport: Train to Sonthofen → Bus 48 → Bus 49 → Bus 50

Easily the toughest trail of the six — rocky, steep, and unforgettable. The view of the small island in the middle of Schrecksee makes it all worth it.

Aerial view of Schrecksee, a turquoise alpine lake with a small island, surrounded by rugged peaks


④ Tegernsee

Best time: Year-round

Hiking time: 4–5 hours

Transport: RB57 from Munich (~1h 10m)

A gentle loop with wide views and soft light, especially in autumn. Ideal for lifestyle photography or a slower walking day.

Golden autumn colors around Tegernsee lake with rowboats and distant mountains

⑤ Alpsee

Best time: October (for autumn colors)

Hiking time: 1hr 30min loop

Transport: RB73/78 → Bus to Füssen (~3h total)

Quiet trails, golden trees, and reflections that don’t need editing. I shot handheld most of the way and still got some of my favorite lake images here.


📸 Bonus: Pindarplatz Viewpoint

Time your arrival for 2–3 PM — the sun hits the lake from above and the colors feel unreal. Worth a stop if you're chasing light.


🧭 Final Tips

- Bring waterproof gear, both for you and your camera.

- Always check transport schedules in advance — some routes only run every 1–2 hours.

- Download the Outdooractive app to adjust your trail plans offline.

- A lightweight camera daypack makes all the difference when climbing or changing gear in fast light.


👉 Click here for my extend backpack

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