The Eibsee circuit: crystal clear water and Alpine panorama

We recently went hiking around Lake Eibsee: a mostly flat route of about 7 kilometers with crystal-clear water and an impressive mountain backdrop. The trail is popular, but at some point the crowds noticeably thin out. Despite the good weather, it was pleasantly quiet when we were there.

Geologically speaking, the 36-meter-deep Eibsee has a remarkable history: around 3,500–3,700 years ago, a massive rockslide occurred on the Zugspitze, whose masses crossed the lake that already existed at that time. It significantly shaped the lake’s current form with its islands and shallows. Much of what you see as you walk along the north shore as a sea of boulders can be traced back to this event. Looking up from the lake to the northern flank, the breakaway niche between the Zugspitze and Riffelwandspitze peaks can still be seen as a striking, partly darker-looking indentation. From the volume of the deposits, geologists also conclude that the summit area must have been higher in the past, probably over 3,000 meters.

About halfway along the route, there is a whole collection of small stone towers that invite you to join in the building, which is not that easy, but a lot of fun. It’s also worth bringing your swimming trunks: there are plenty of easily accessible entry points into the water. I took a quick dip towards the end and, once I’d overcome my initial hesitation, it was just great.

The stop at the boat rental towards the end of the hike was also highly recommended. We rented a pedal boat for 17 € for an hour, sailed around the islands, and enjoyed the sun. We would do that again anytime. Afterwards, we stopped at the lake restaurant. From the terrace, we could see two impressive lake trout, apparently hoping for leftovers. The prices were pleasantly moderate for such a touristy location.

Komoot