Königssee: A Bavarian Beauty You Can't Miss
If you're in Bavaria, Germany, you absolutely must dedicate a day to visiting Königssee. For me, it's hands down the most beautiful lake in the region. I rarely use "most beautiful" to describe natural scenery, but this time, I'm making an exception.
This was my second visit, but the first time, the weather wasn't cooperative, so I skipped the boat tour. I was determined to experience its full splendor, especially the iconic St. Bartholomew's Church reflected in the pristine waters. It was well worth the wait for a sunny day!
Getting to Königssee
- By Car: It's about a 160 km drive from Munich (Hauptbahnhof), roughly a 1.5-hour journey. The parking lot is conveniently located near the boat departure point. Parking fees are around 9€ per day.
- Public Transport: It's possible, but requires several transfers, making the trip from Munich quite lengthy (3-4 hours). However, you can utilize the 49€ Ticket (Germany-wide travel pass). This allows you to combine your trip with a visit to Salzburg (Mozart's birthplace). The 49€ Ticket covers your journey to the Salzburg train station. From Salzburg to Königssee, it takes a little over 2 hours.
Taking the Boat Tour
You should purchase a ticket to the final stop, Salet. This ticket grants access to two stops: St. Bartholomew's Church and Salet (where Lake Obersee is located). The round trip costs 28.5€. From Salet, it's a 15-minute trek to Lake Obersee. I always bring my trekking shoes when I visit these areas. Solid footwear is recommended for the trails around the lake, especially a section with somewhat slippery stone steps.
Don't stop short of the end of the trail. The final viewpoint is the highlight of the day, a place to recharge and be amazed by nature. Your camera and phone will be overflowing with photos! There's also a small cabin (Hütte) here if you need some energy before heading back.
For those living in Bavaria and who haven't been to Königssee: you're really missing out! I'm currently enjoying myself at Königssee.
```