Murner See: A Bavarian Lakeside Gem
Discover Murner See: Bavaria's hidden gem for swimming, diving, camping, and watersports in a beautifully restored landscape. Perfect for a lakeside escape.
Murner See is a captivating lake nestled in the heart of Bavaria's Oberpfälzer Seenland, near Wackersdorf. This 90-hectare expanse of water is not just a scenic spot but also a testament to successful environmental restoration. In its past life, Murner See was a brown coal mining site, but after mining operations ceased, the area was thoughtfully recultivated, and the pit filled with ground, rain and surface water, separating it from Brückelsee. Today, Murner See attracts visitors with its clear waters and diverse leisure activities. The lake's shores have been transformed into inviting spaces for relaxation and recreation, featuring sunbathing areas, sandy beaches, and natural bays. A restaurant, minigolf course, and camping site add to the convenience and appeal of the area. For those seeking active pursuits, Murner See offers opportunities for swimming, diving, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. Divers are drawn to the lake's clear waters, which can reach depths of up to 50 meters. The lake is also surrounded by attractions such as a beach volleyball court, children's playground, and a fairytale forest, ensuring there's something for everyone. A 16-meter-high wooden observation tower at the northwest end of the lake provides panoramic views and is particularly suited for bird watching. While the lake's water has a slightly acidic pH of around 3.8, it remains clean and supports sparse plant life in the shallow areas. The area around Murner See also offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past, with the Heimat- und Industriemuseum in Wackersdorf providing insights into brown coal mining in the Upper Palatinate.
Local tips
- Visit the observation tower on the northwest side of the lake for panoramic views and bird watching opportunities.
- Explore the Heimat- und Industriemuseum in Wackersdorf to learn about the area's brown coal mining history.
- Take advantage of the various recreational activities available, such as swimming, diving, and stand-up paddleboarding.
- Check out the local social media channels for up-to-date parking and traffic information, especially on weekends.
A brief summary to Murner See
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Getting There
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Public Transport
From Schwandorf, take bus line 8409 directly to Murner See. This bus runs twice a week on Saturdays and Sundays and takes about 12 minutes. Alternatively, during Bavarian school holidays, a daily 'Ferienbus' (holiday bus) operates between Schwandorf train station, Steinberger See, and Murner See. A single ride is affordable and the 'Deutschlandticket' is accepted. Check local transport websites for the most up-to-date schedules.
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Car
If driving, follow B85 from Cham-Schwandorf and take the Wackersdorf exit, following signs for Seengebiete/Murner See. Ample parking is generally available, but if the main lot is full, overflow parking is located at Industriestraße 1, a short walk from the beach. Parking fees may apply, for example, EUR 2 at Restaurant Seaside. Be aware that during peak times, parking areas and access roads may be partially or completely closed due to high traffic.
