Is This Bavaria’s Most Peaceful Lake? Hintersee and the Magic of Ramsau
Lake Hintersee is located near the village of Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden, in southern Bavaria, a short distance from the Austrian border. It’s a place that enchants with its perfect harmony of water, forest, and rock: a small alpine lake that reflects fir trees, Dolomite peaks, and clear skies.
The landscape is delicate and profoundly silent, ideal for those who love authentic places, away from the tourist crowds and immersed in nature at a leisurely pace.
The atmosphere changes with the seasons: in spring, the bright green of the forests dominates; in summer, the lake welcomes canoes and rowboats; in autumn, the mountains are tinged with copper; and in winter, the snow transforms everything into a fairytale scene.
What to see and what to do
The first experience is the walk that circles the lake, a simple route lasting about an hour, suitable for everyone and perfect in the early morning or at sunset, when the light fades between the trees and the water transforms into a still mirror. Along the trail, you’ll find panoramic viewpoints, wooden bridges, small pebble beaches, and glimpses ideal for photographers and landscape lovers.
Just a few steps from the lake lies the Zauberwald, the famous Enchanted Forest. This forest, shaped centuries ago by a large landslide, is a natural labyrinth of moss-covered boulders, clear streams, and towering fir trees. The path that runs through it is short and flat: a shady and evocative route, perfect during the warmer hours or with children. The forest follows the Ramsauer Ache, a clear stream that flows between smooth rocks and emerald pools.
For those who enjoy hiking, Hintersee is an excellent starting point. Among the most spectacular itineraries is the hike to the Blaueishütte, a panoramic refuge at the foot of the Blaueis Glacier: the route is challenging but offers magnificent views of the Hochkalter massif. Easier trails, meanwhile, connect Ramsau to high-altitude pastures and small alpine huts in the valley.
During summer you can rent a rowboat and experience the lake from the water, observing the landscape from a slow and silent perspective. There are no motorboats or invasive noises: the lake is protected and remains an authentic, respected, and preserved place.
Where to sleep
Hotel am Hintersee (Ramsau – tel. +49 8657 98840): Alpine-style rooms, lake views, and direct access to hiking trails.
Berghotel Rehlegg (Ramsau – tel. +49 8657 9830): refined, with spa and panoramic pool overlooking the mountains.
BergeHof Ramsau (tel. +49 8657 98760): a welcoming refuge for those who love silence and the scent of mountain wood.
Where to eat
Gasthof Seeklause (tel. +49 8657 987320): lakefront lunch with traditional Bavarian dishes. Try the grilled Königssee trout with parsley potatoes and Helles beer.
Wirtshaus im Zauberwald (tel. +49 8657 987145): near the forest, ideal after a hike. Recommended: speck dumplings, mushroom soup, and Kaiserschmarrn.
Berggaststätte Hirschbichl (tel. +49 8657 982340): an authentic mountain stop with goulash, spätzle, and blueberry tart.
Local gastronomy
The Ramsau Valley offers a cuisine of mountain simplicity: cold-water trout, smoked speck, alpine cheeses, potatoes, mushrooms, and blueberries. Desserts are rich and buttery, while Bavarian beers and berry spirits dominate the drinks list.
Useful numbers and practical information
Ramsau Tourist Office: +49 8657 98890
Emergencies: 112
Best season: June–October for trekking; December–February for snowy landscapes
Travel advice: hiking boots, windbreaker, and access by car or local bus
How to get there
From Berchtesgaden: 15 minutes by car
From Salzburg: 40–45 minutes
From Munich: approx. 2 hours
By train: stop in Berchtesgaden, then take regional buses to Ramsau and the lake.
