Kleiner Arbersee: A Jewel of the Bavarian Forest

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Discover the enchanting Kleiner Arbersee, a glacial lake with floating islands, nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Forest.

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Kleiner Arbersee

Kleiner Arbersee, nestled at the foot of the Großer Arber, is a stunning glacial lake in the Bavarian Forest. Known for its three floating islands and serene atmosphere, it's a haven for nature lovers and hikers alike. The lake and its surroundings are a protected natural reserve, offering a unique glimpse into the region's geological past and rich biodiversity.

A brief summary to Kleiner Arbersee

Lohberg, 93470, DE
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From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as the path around the lake can be uneven and slippery.
Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the unique plant life on the floating islands.
Visit during the week to avoid the larger weekend crowds.
Check the operating schedule for the Kleine Arberseebahn if you prefer a less strenuous approach to the lake.
Be sure to have cash on hand for parking fees at the trailheads.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Wanderparkplatz Reißbrücke, follow the signs towards Kleiner Arbersee. The trail is approximately 3km and takes about an hour. The path winds through the forest, offering scenic views along the way. Alternatively, take the Gläserner Steig trail, a slightly longer but more scenic route passing by the Sollbach waterfalls. Parking at Reißbrücke costs €3 per day.
Public Transport

From Lohberg, take the Kleine Arberseebahn (small Arber Lake train) to the Seehäusl station, directly at the lake. The train operates from May to October. Check the current schedule for departure times. A round-trip ticket costs approximately €12 for adults and €7 for children. The train departs from Lohberghütte, where parking is available. Alternatively, utilize bus lines 590, 6198, or 618 to reach Lohberg. From there, connect to the Kleine Arberseebahn or hike to the lake.

Discover more about Kleiner Arbersee

Kleiner Arbersee, or Little Arber Lake, is a picturesque lake located in the heart of the Bavarian Forest, near the town of Lohberg. Situated at 918 meters above sea level, it lies at the foot of the Großer Arber (Great Arber), the highest peak in the Bavarian Forest. This idyllic lake is a 'Karsee', a lake formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. The lake's most distinctive feature is its three floating islands, formed in the late 19th century when the lake was artificially raised to facilitate logging. The rising water levels detached peat layers from the lake's edge, creating these unique landmasses that drift gently across the water. These islands are covered in a unique moor flora, including rare and endangered plant species.The Kleiner Arbersee and its surrounding area have been a designated nature reserve since 1959, protecting its unique ecosystem. Visitors can explore the lake via a 1.5km circular hiking trail, which offers stunning views of the lake, the floating islands, and the surrounding forest. The trail is generally easy to navigate, though some sections are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs. The lake is also a popular starting point for hikes to the summits of Kleiner Arber and Großer Arber.Swimming and boating are prohibited in the lake to protect its fragile environment. However, the Seehäusl restaurant on the western shore provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. The lake is accessible via several hiking trails from nearby parking areas, or by taking the Kleine Arberseebahn, a small tourist train that operates from May to October.