Hintersee, Salzkammergut Lakes Travel Guide

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Discover the serene beauty of Hintersee, a picturesque alpine lake with crystal-clear waters and a magical forest, nestled in the Bavarian Alps.

Hintersee is a picturesque lake nestled in the Berchtesgaden National Park in Bavaria, Germany, near the village of Ramsau. Formed approximately 3,500 years ago by a massive rockslide, it's known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning mountain backdrop, and the adjacent Zauberwald (Magic Forest).

A brief summary to Hintersee

Faistenau, AT

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hintersee.

Take the 2.5 km Prinzregent-Luitpold-Weg for a casual walk around the lake, which takes just under an hour.
During the summer, rent an electric boat to cross the lake or take a tour.
Explore the Zauberwald (Magic Forest) on the southeastern end of the lake.

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Explore Hintersee on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Hintersee, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From Salzburg, take bus line 840 towards Berchtesgaden. From Berchtesgaden, transfer to bus line 846 to Hintersee. Get off at the Auzinger bus stop, which is a short walk to the lake. The total journey takes approximately 2 hours and costs around €4-7 for the bus from Salzburg to Faistenau.
Car

From Munich, take the A8 motorway towards Salzburg. Exit at Traunstein-Siegsdorf and follow the B306 and B305 to Ramsau. From Ramsau, follow signs to Hintersee. Parking is available at Hintersee, with a daily fee of €5. Parking can be paid via the Parkster app.

Discover more about Hintersee

Hintersee is a jewel of the Bavarian Alps, offering an idyllic escape into a world of natural beauty and tranquility. Located in Ramsau, near Berchtesgaden, this stunning lake is a testament to the power and artistry of nature. Its serene waters, framed by majestic mountains and verdant forests, create a landscape that has captivated artists, writers, and travelers for centuries.The lake's origins trace back to a colossal rockslide in the Hochkalter mountain range around 3,500 years ago. An estimated 15 million cubic meters of rock reshaped the Klausbach valley, damming the Klausbach river and creating Hintersee. The resulting lake, with its crystal-clear waters, became a mirror reflecting the surrounding alpine scenery. Painters in the 1800s immortalized the lake, gathering at the Malerklause (Painter's Cabin) near the Auzinger restaurant.The Zauberwald, or Magic Forest, borders the lake. This enchanting forest showcases nature's raw power, with moss-covered boulders, gnarled trees, and crystal-clear streams. A footpath was constructed through the forest in 1896, though it wasn't called the Magic Forest until the 1920s.Visitors can enjoy various activities, including swimming, boating, and hiking. A five-kilometer trail encircles the lake, inviting visitors to embark on a leisurely walk amidst breathtaking scenery. Boat rentals are available to explore the lake.