Spitzingsee Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Spitzingsee, Germany, with our comprehensive travel guide. From hiking and biking routes to local culture and customs, we've got you covered.


Nestled in the heart of Upper Bavaria, Spitzingsee is a hidden gem that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its picturesque landscape, crystal clear lake, and scenic mountain views, Spitzingsee is the ultimate destination for nature lovers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Spitzingsee, Germany.

Introduction to Spitzingsee

Spitzingsee is a small village located in the Bavarian Alps, roughly 50 km south of Munich. The village sits at an elevation of 1084 m above sea level, and is home to the beautiful Spitzingsee lake. The village is a popular destination for winter sports, but also attracts visitors during the summer months for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Spitzingsee

There are plenty of attractions to see and things to do in Spitzingsee. Here’s a list of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Markus Wasmeier Freilichtmuseum - an open-air museum showcasing Bavarian life and culture
  • Schliersee Historic Museum - a museum displaying the history of the Schliersee region

Natural Attractions of Spitzingsee: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spitzingsee Lake - a beautiful crystal-clear lake, perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing
  • Taubenstein Mountain - offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape
  • Valepp Valley - a picturesque valley offering hiking and biking trails

Hiking/Biking Routes of Spitzingsee

Spitzingsee is home to several hiking and biking trails suitable for beginners and pros alike. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Taubenstein Circuit Trail - a challenging route with stunning views of the valley
  • Rotwand Trail - a moderate-level hike to the Rotwand peak
  • Spitzingsee Round Trail - an easy-level hike around the lake

Best Things to Do in Spitzingsee: Activities and Tours

Spitzingsee offers many activities and tours to keep you busy during your stay. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Skiing and snowboarding - with over 20 km of pistes, Spitzingsee is a popular winter sports destination
  • Stand-up paddleboarding - explore the lake on a Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP)
  • Paragliding - enjoy the stunning views of the Alps from above

Week-Long Itinerary for Spitzingsee

Here’s a 7-day itinerary to make the most of your stay in Spitzingsee:

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in
2 Hiking to Taubenstein mountain
3 Skiing/snowboarding in Spitzingsee resort
4 Historical museum visit in Schliersee
5 Stand-up paddleboarding in Spitzingsee lake
6 Day trip to Munich
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Spitzingsee

Bavarian cuisine is famous for its hearty dishes and local beers. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Spitzingsee:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Schweinshaxe - a roasted pork knuckle served with sauerkraut and bread
  • Kaiserschmarrn - a sweet dish made of shredded pancakes
  • Obatzda - a cheese spread served with bread

Local Beverages

  • Weissbier - a light, wheat-based beer
  • Radler - a beer mixed with lemonade for a refreshing drink
  • Schnapps - a strong distilled fruit liquor

Where to Stay in Spitzingsee: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Accommodation options in Spitzingsee range from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  • Arabella Alpenhotel am Spitzingsee - a 4-star hotel with indoor pool and spa
  • Gästehaus Charlotte - a cozy guesthouse in a quiet location
  • Jugendherberge Spitzingsee - hostel-style accommodation with stunning lake views

What to Buy in Spitzingsee: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, check out these places:

  • Spitzingsee Farmers’ Market - held every Wednesday, offering fresh local produce and crafts
  • Markus Wasmeier Freilichtmuseum gift shop - sells handcrafted Bavarian souvenirs
  • Schliersee Historic Museum gift shop - offers books and postcards related to the history of the region

Local Culture and Customs of Spitzingsee

Bavarian culture is rich in customs and traditions, some of which can still be seen in Spitzingsee. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Bavarians are proud of their culture and language, so try to learn a few basic phrases in German
  • Beer and wine are a big part of Bavarian culture, but excessive drinking is frowned upon
  • Sundays are considered a day of rest, so most shops and businesses are closed

Best Time to Visit Spitzingsee

The best time to visit Spitzingsee depends on what you’re looking for. Winter sports enthusiasts should visit between December and March, while those who want to enjoy the outdoors and hiking should come between May and October.

Do’s and Don’ts of Spitzingsee

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your stay in Spitzingsee:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Follow the outdoor safety rules and regulations
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks

Don’t:

  • Ski or hike off-piste without proper equipment and knowledge
  • Litter or damage the natural environment
  • Be loud in quiet areas

Safety and Health

Spitzingsee is a safe place to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions and be aware of potential risks. Here are some safety and health tips:

Safety in Spitzingsee

  • Check the weather forecast before starting any outdoor activities
  • Always have a map and compass with you
  • Be prepared for changes in weather conditions

Health in Spitzingsee

  • Tap water in Spitzingsee is safe to drink
  • European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) holders receive emergency medical treatment for free
  • Pharmacies are generally closed on Sundays and public holidays

Getting to Spitzingsee: Transportation Options and Logistics

Spitzingsee is easily accessible by car, public transport, or bike. Here are some options:

Airports Near Spitzingsee

  • Munich Airport (MUC) - approximately 70 km from Spitzingsee
  • Salzburg Airport (SZG) - approximately 100 km from Spitzingsee

Bus Stations Near Spitzingsee

  • Schliersee Bahnhof - a bus station located in Schliersee, approximately 5 km from Spitzingsee
  • Fischhausen-Neuhaus - a bus station located at the bottom of Spitzingsee, connecting to nearby towns

Other Options

  • Car rental - several car rental options are available at Munich Airport or in nearby towns
  • Bike rental - bike rentals are available in Spitzingsee and surrounding towns

How to Get Around in Spitzingsee

Walking, biking, or driving are the best ways to get around Spitzingsee. The village is very pedestrian-friendly, and there are plenty of bike rental options available. There is also a public bus network connecting Spitzingsee to nearby towns and attractions.

Where to Go Next from Spitzingsee: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for other destinations or excursions after Spitzingsee, here are some options:

  • Munich - the capital city of Bavaria, offers a mix of history, culture, and nightlife
  • Salzburg - a beautiful city in Austria, known for its baroque architecture and music scene
  • Berchtesgaden National Park - a beautiful alpine national park with stunning views and hiking trails

Conclusion

Spitzingsee is a breathtaking destination that attracts visitors with its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. We hope this comprehensive tour guide provides you with all the information you need to plan your perfect trip to Spitzingsee. Enjoy your stay in this hidden gem of Upper Bavaria!