Holiday in Starnberger See

About Starnberger See

Starnberger See, located just 25 kilometers southwest of Munich, is one of the largest and deepest lakes in Bavaria and is nicknamed the Prince's Lake — for centuries, it has attracted the Bavarian nobility and the Munich society to its shores. With an area of nearly 57 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 128 meters, it offers crystal-clear water against the spectacular backdrop of the Bavarian Alps. Roseninsel, the only island in the lake, was once the retreat of King Ludwig II and features a casino in Pompeian style as well as a historic rose garden. On the eastern shore, a simple wooden cross in the water commemorates the mysterious death of the fairy-tale king in 1886 — the votive chapel on the slope above is a pilgrimage site for Ludwig admirers from around the world. The 49-kilometer lakeside path is excellent for hiking and cycling, passing by stately villas, well-kept beer gardens, and idyllic swimming spots. Starnberg on the northern shore offers a lovely lakeside promenade and regular boat trips. The Buchheim Museum of Fantasy in Bernried showcases expressionist art in spectacular architecture right by the lake. The traditional inns in Berg, Tutzing, and Seeshaupt serve Bavarian specialties with a view of the lake — a grilled Renke is a culinary must at Starnberger See.