If you’re looking to take a day trip from Munich to go swimming in the surrounding area, you’ll be spoiled for choice. From the “Bavarian Sea” to the “Bavarian Caribbean” and the ever-popular Lake Starnberg, there are quite a few popular bodies of water in the region. However, if you’d rather escape the city crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet, these destinations aren’t really the best choice. Instead, you should head to a small, hidden lake like Hackensee. Because even though it isn’t particularly large, it has a lot to offer.
A Wonderful Gem
Hackensee is located near Holzkirchen and is fed by the Kirchseebach, which originates from the nearby Kirchsee. Like Kirchsee, Hackensee is a bog lake, measuring just 600 meters in length and 180 meters in width, with a surface area of 8 hectares. Its maximum depth is 3.5 meters, so you may very well find yourself coming into close contact with the plants on the bottom. If that doesn’t put you off any more than the murky bog water does, then you’ve found a truly wonderful swimming spot here that you’ll only have to share with a few others.
Unlike many other Bavarian swimming lakes, there’s no infrastructure at all at Hackensee. You won’t find a kiosk, beer garden, or playground here. However , there are several docks jutting out into the water where you can settle in. Dangle your feet over the water or lie down on the planks to soak up the sun. There’s also a large grassy area where you can find a spot to relax. Enjoy the beautiful view across the water and of the trees lining the shore. The area around Hackensee is also perfect for a walk and invites you to take a deep breath of fresh air.
The Legend of Hackensee
As beautiful and idyllic as Hackensee may be, the legend surrounding the body of water is just as eerie. Supposedly, a water spirit dwells at the bottom of the lake— the so-called “Hakenmann.” Using a long hook, he pulls his victims into the water and waits until they drown. In reality, of course, only fish live in Lake Hackensee—and they, in turn , have to watch out for the hooks of the anglers who enjoy spending time here.
Hackensee has also appeared in a movie. Director Marcus H. Rosenmüller filmed scenes here 20 years ago for his comedy “Wer früher stirbt, ist länger tot” (Whoever Dies First Is Dead Longer). In the film, the lake takes on the role of the Danninger Weiher—an outstanding acting performance on its part, in our opinion! If you’d like to visit a real movie set or spend a quiet day swimming away from the crowds, Hackensee is the perfect spot for you. But be careful—don’t let the Hakenmann catch you.
