Fairytales and Aquatic Fun on the Bavarian Sea

The German state of Bavaria offers scenic landscapes, delicious food, and—perhaps most notably—a famous fall festival named Oktoberfest. But somehow, there’s, even more, to enjoy in this idyllic European destination.

The region’s largest lake, Chiemsee, is an enchanting escape where mountain views and quaint coastal towns seem to be plucked straight out of a fairytale. Also known as the “Bavarian Sea,” this destination comes to life even as the weather gets cooler—its fall and winter seasons just add to the magic.

Take a look at today’s blog as we explore this one-of-a-kind destination!

Enjoy a palace walk…

Looking for a taste of the royal treatment? In a land like Bavaria, where countryside castles big and small dot the landscape, it’s only to be expected! Fortunately, the aptly-nicknamed Bavarian Sea more than delivers. Within the lake, itself sits a few islands, one of which—Herreninsel—is home to a 19th-century palace you can see and experience for yourself.

Built by King Ludwig II with the hopes of creating a “Bavarian Versailles,” the palace of Herrenchiemsee was never completely finished… but its ornate designs, majestic walkways and the outdoor grounds it encompasses can be toured today. It’s like taking a walk through history, at the heart of a land that feels uniquely out of this world.

… and a winter wonderland

Herreninsel isn’t the only island worth visiting on the lake! You won’t find cars on Frauenchiemsee, but you will find something special during the month of December: a true winter wonderland, a Christmas market where you can warm up to the sights of glittering lights against the aquatic backdrop, and browse through gifts and local flavors you can’t find anywhere else in the world.

Boating on Chiemsee

We can’t forget about the lake itself! The water plays host to a number of aquatic activities, such as boating, kayaking, fishing (for trout, pike, and even eel) and swimming along the lake’s picturesque shores. By the time it’s too cold outside to jump right in, you can still enjoy the dreamlike view of the water by foot. Take a walk around Chiemsee’s border, breaking for a picnic lunch or admiring the enticing facades of nearby villages.

Whether you’re in town for Oktoberfest or are planning a trip for the coming months, we hope that your Bavarian getaway is truly enchanting!