Spring is slowly but surely arriving in Munich. It will still be a while before it’s finally warm enough to jump into the lakes and discover the best ice cream parlors in the city. But even now, nature in Bavaria offers some exciting excursion highlights. Especially now, when the snow is melting, waterfalls such as the legendary Tatzelfälle are more impressive than at any other time of year. And the Schleierfälle waterfalls near Kochel are also a must-see this spring.
“Jungle feeling” in the Bavarian Alpine foothills
Photo: Unsplash
The Schleierfälle waterfalls are a hidden natural wonder that can only be reached by hiking from Kochel am See. You start right at the hiking car park in Kochel am See and then have to walk through nature for 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the waterfalls. But be careful: even though the trail is considered family-friendly, the last few meters to the waterfall are often slippery and root-covered.
Incidentally, the Schleierfälle near Kochel are often confused with the waterfalls of the same name in the Ammer Gorge, which are often closed. But we are referring to the impressive waterfalls in the Lainbach Valley, which can be reached directly from Kochel am See and are less dangerous.
Centuries-old moss in the middle of the Alps
Photo: Unsplash
As soon as you reach the Schleierfälle, you will quickly understand why they bear this name. The water does not cascade down in a massive stream, but fans out like a fine, glittering veil over moss-covered rocks. Almost like a natural shower curtain.
The water is extremely calcareous. As it flows over the moss, lime deposits build up and cause the rock to literally “grow.” Over thousands of years, this has created unusual overhangs that you can admire there today.
Due to the constant humidity and shade of the gorge, there is an almost jungle-like climate with dark green mosses and ferns. Unique in the area! But please observe the rules during your visit: stepping on the sensitive calcareous tufa mosses is strictly prohibited, as they grow extremely slowly and are immediately destroyed by foot traffic.