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Starnberger See
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Starnberger See, known as Würmsee until 1962, is located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Munich and ranks as Germany's second largest lake by water volume. Formed as a classic glacial lake during the Würm ice age, it covers an area of about 56 square kilometers and reaches a significant depth of up to 127 meters. Historically, the lake is inextricably linked to the tragic and mysterious death of King Ludwig II of Bavaria in 1886 near the shores of Berg, where a votive chapel and a memorial cross now stand. During the 19th century, the region evolved into an exclusive retreat for the Munich aristocracy and upper class, leaving a legacy of magnificent villas and castles along its coastline. Rose Island (Roseninsel), the lake's only island, features a casino built by King Maximilian II and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site for prehistoric pile dwellings. Today, the lake is a premier destination for water sports and hiking, while serving as a crucial protected habitat for local fish and bird species.
- Location: Bavaria, Germany
- Top sights: Kustermannpark · Strandbad Feldafing
- Nearby: Wolfratshausen (7 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -1 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 13 | 9 | 4 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 76 | 59 | 69 | 68 | 123 | 137 | 134 | 139 | 92 | 77 | 62 | 67 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Reaching this popular Bavarian lake is usually straightforward by regional trains or driving from Munich, which lies about twenty-five kilometers away and has excellent transport connections.
Best season
The most pleasant weather for visiting is typically found during the summer months, though late spring and autumn offer much quieter, yet equally photogenic settings right along the water's edge.
Terrain & paths
Most trails around the shoreline are very well-maintained, relatively flat, and often completely paved, making them generally highly accessible for leisurely walks or extended cycling excursions.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are typically sufficient for relaxed shore strolls, but it is highly advisable to bring layered clothing for changing weather and adequate sun protection for the open sections.
Parking
Visitors can usually find official public parking areas in the towns surrounding the lake, though these spots are known to fill up extremely quickly during peak summer weekends and national holidays.
Safety
Standard water safety practices naturally apply here; swimmers should generally always remain within designated safety areas, and all boaters must constantly monitor the local weather conditions.
Time needed
Many people thoroughly enjoy spending a full day exploring the beautiful surroundings, but a typical shorter visit merely for a waterfront walk often lasts anywhere between two and four hours.
Geography
Facts
- The lake holds a total water volume of approximately 3.0 billion cubic meters.
- Starnberger See has a maximum length of about 20.2 kilometers.
- Rose Island is famous for its garden containing over 200 varieties of roses.
- The lake rarely freezes over completely due to its great depth.
- Empress Elisabeth of Austria, known as Sisi, spent her summers at Possenhofen Castle on the shore.
- The town of Starnberg is known as one of the wealthiest municipalities in Germany.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Starnberger See (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is Lake Starnberg historically famous?
It became famous due to the mysterious death of King Ludwig II in 1886. A wooden cross in the water near Berg marks where his body was found.
How far is the lake from Munich?
The lake is only about 25 km south of Munich and can be reached directly via S-Bahn line S6 in approx. 35 minutes (Starnberg station).
What is the Roseninsel?
The lake's only island houses a small 'Casino' villa and a rose garden. It was a private retreat for Ludwig II.
Can you walk around Lake Starnberg?
Yes, the circuit is approx. 46 km long. Since many lakeshore properties are private, the path does not always run directly by the water.
What water sports are possible?
Sailing, surfing, rowing, and stand-up paddling are very popular. Motorboats are strictly regulated to protect the water quality.
Starnberger See: where is it located?
Starnberger See is located in Bavaria, Germany.
Starnberger See: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kustermannpark, Strandbad Feldafing.
Starnberger See: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Starnberger See: why is it worth visiting?
Starnberger See, known as Würmsee until 1962, is located approximately 25 kilometers southwest of Munich and ranks as Germany's second largest lake by water volume.
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