Alpsee
A clear alpine lake at the foot of Hohenschwangau Castle, with a 5 km trail circling the lake, where you can see both castles from the same vantage point.
Lake Alpsee lies beside the village of Hohenschwangau at an elevation of about 814 meters. Its clear, emerald water is surrounded on three sides by the Alps, and King Ludwig II often swam and rowed here as a child. A flat trail encircles the lake, about 5 km long and taking 1 to 1.5 hours, passing through woodland and along the shore. From different points, you can see Hohenschwangau Castle, and on the east side of the lake, Neuschwanstein Castle is visible in the distance. It is a relaxing place to visit before or after touring the castles. In summer, boats can be rented at the lakeside dock, including rowboats and electric boats. A paid small bathing area is also available, though the water stays around 18 to 20°C even in August. The Museum der bayerischen Könige (Museum of the Bavarian Kings) by the lake covers the history of the Wittelsbach dynasty. The smaller Schwansee (Swan Lake) is nearby, and its surrounding meadows are good for photographing the castles. Admission is free.
Opening hours
Open all day; boat rental approx. May–Oct
Nearby sights
- Schwansee
- Museum of the Bavarian Kings
- Hohenschwangau Castle
- Königliche Kristall-Therme Schwangau
- Marienbrücke
- Neuschwanstein Castle
- Pöllat Gorge
- Füssen Old Town