Wagenbrüchsee, also known as Geroldsee, is a mountain lake renowned for its beauty. The lake is surrounded by lush meadows, dense forests, and towering peaks, providing a picturesque backdrop for hikers. Its clear emerald-green waters are striking from a distance.

The region is viral in autumn when the surrounding foliage turns red, orange, and yellow. The water's surface often reflects the surrounding mountains and trees, making it an excellent spot for photography.

Map - Where is Wagenbrüchsee?

You are in southern Germany, in Bavaria, near the village of Krün, close to the Austrian border. The small lake is part of the Karwendel Nature Park, attracting numerous hikers and outdoor enthusiasts yearly.

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  • Distance from Munich: 100 km
  • Distance from Innsbruck (Austria): 60 km
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The lake is relatively easy to reach by car, and parking is available nearby. It is a great day trip destination for those visiting nearby cities such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen or Munich.

More about Geroldsee

The area around Wagenbrüchsee offers numerous hiking trails to explore the Bavarian Alps.

  • Geroldsee is known for its tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. It's a great place for relaxation, picnics, or simply enjoying the serenity of nature. You can sit by the lake, listen to the soothing sounds of nature, and take in the scenery.
  • The lake and its surroundings are home to various plant and animal species. Besides forests and meadows, you can find alpine flowers and aquatic plants around the lake. As for wildlife, you may spot deer, chamois, foxes, marmots, and various bird species.
  • The lake's location and relatively open surroundings provide an excellent setting for watching the sunset. The colours reflected on the lake's surface can create a truly magical scene as the sun sets behind the mountains.
Wagenbrüchsee is a relatively small mountain lake with an area of approximately 2 hectares. Its depth can vary but typically ranges between 2 and 5 meters.

Can you swim in the lake?

Yes, you can. While the lake is small and may appear warm, it is quite cool due to its elevation. However, swimming in the lake is possible and refreshing during summer. Please note that it may not be suitable for young children.

Origin of its name

The name "Wagenbrüchsee" has German origins and can be broken down as follows: "Wagen" in German means "carriage" or "wagon." "Brüch" is a regional Bavarian term roughly meaning "swampy" or "marshy." The name may originate from the historical use or appearance of the area, suggesting that it was a marshy or swampy area where carriages could have encountered difficulties.

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The name "Geroldsee" is derived from the nearby village of Gerold.

Attractions in the Area

The lake is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes and attractions well worth visiting. Some of these choices include:

  • Zugspitze (25 km): Germany's highest point in the Alps, the 2963-meter-high Zugspitze, is located here. It's an ideal spot for mountaineering enthusiasts, but you can also reach the summit by cable car.
  • Eibsee Lake (30 km): The 15-meter-deep Eibsee is one of Germany's most famous lakes, located at the base of Zugspitze. It's an ideal area for hiking, and swimming is also possible in the lake.
  • Mittenwald (10 km): Mittenwald is a charming town known for its traditional Bavarian architecture and rich cultural heritage.
  • Leutaschklamm Gorge (10 km): On the outskirts of Mittenwald, one of Germany's most beautiful gorges, Leutaschklamm. The gorge walls tower 100 meters high, and forests surround the landscape. One exciting feature of the gorge is that it partially crosses into Austria.
  • Partnachklamm Gorge (20 km): The 702-meter-long Partnachklamm was formed along the Partnach River. It is one of Bavaria's most exciting gorges, with its mysterious and impressive appearance.

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