Alpsee hiking path

The Alpsee Circular Trail is a popular hiking route of approximately 5.2 km, taking about 1.5 hours to complete. It winds scenically around Lake Alpsee – the favorite lake of King Ludwig II and one of the cleanest lakes in Bavaria.

Nestled in a forested mountain landscape, Lake Alpsee lies directly below the famous royal castles of Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein. This easy trail is ideal for families with children, though it is unfortunately not suitable for strollers.

Along the way, numerous benches invite you to take a break and enjoy breathtaking views of the crystal-clear lake and the fairy-tale castles.

After your hike, you can relax with a refreshing swim at the Alpsee Lido (from May to October, open daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in good weather), or rent a rowing and pedal boat from the Alpsee Boathouse. A visit to the Museum of the Bavarian Kings is also well worth your time.

Wooden benches on the shore of Lake Alpsee next to the Marian monument, surrounded by brightly colored deciduous forest; mountains rise in the background. — Maries Monument (Queen Marie’s favourite bathing spot)

Spring photograph of Lake Alpsee with crystal-clear blue water, bordered by green shrubs and trees; mountains rise in the background — Alpsee lake

Autumn photograph of Lake Alpsee with crystal-clear blue water, surrounded by brightly colored deciduous forest. — Alpsee lake

Panoramic view of the sparkling Lake Alpsee with a pedal boat and boathouse on the right shore, framed by green shrubs and trees. On the left, the yellow Hohenschwangau Castle crowns a green, densely forested hill; in the center is the Alpenrose building housing the Museum of the Bavarian Kings; and on the right stands the white Neuschwanstein Castle. — Lake Alpsee with panorama view to both castles

Panoramic view of the sparkling Alpsee with tourists in a rowboat and the boathouse on the left shore. In the background, mountains and densely forested hills rise up. — Alpsee boat rental

Swimmers stand on the wooden pier over the Alpsee. In the background are the sunbathing lawn with guests and the kiosk, surrounded by trees and shrubs. — Alpseebad

The Museum of the Bavarian Kings stands on the shore of the Alpsee, beautifully framed by colorful autumn foliage. — Museum of the bavarian Kings