For us, one clear reason why Munich is among the best cities in the world is Bavarian nature. All around the state capital, you’ll find not only the most beautiful lakes, but also magical waterfalls and medieval castles in the forest. You could take a trip to the surrounding area every weekend and still probably wouldn’t have seen everything! The Maisinger Schlucht fits right into this list. Especially if you’re looking for a destination that isn’t overly touristy, this hike is perfect for you.
A natural air conditioner in the forest
The Maisinger Schlucht is one of the most charming and least crowded natural landmarks in the immediate vicinity of Munich. It forms the natural link between the town of Starnberg and the idyllic village of Maising.
Geologically speaking, the gorge is a relic of the Würm Ice Age: the Maisinger Bach has carved its way into the rock here over thousands of years. It is a 30-meter-deep ravine— and, of course, not directly comparable to the Alps. But precisely because it lies practically on Munich’s doorstep, it makes for a romantic day trip destination.
While the plateau above often offers sweeping views, the gorge immerses you in a cool, shady world of steep rock faces, dense moss, and babbling water. The Maisinger Gorge is especially worth visiting on hot summer days, as it acts like a natural air conditioner and the temperature there is noticeably lower than on the shores of nearby Lake Starnberg.
Hiking around the lake
The approximately three-kilometer-long hiking trail is excellently maintained, flat, and therefore ideal for families or leisurely strolls. You can start right from Starnberg. At the upper end of the gorge, the valley opens up to Lake Maising, one of Bavaria’s oldest nature reserves. The lake is far quieter and more pristine than Lake Starnberg. Here you can watch birds or even jump into the moor lake. But be careful: it’s only two meters deep at most and is becoming increasingly silted up.
By the way, Lake Maising was dammed artificially as a fish pond by the monks of Dießen Abbey as early as the 15th century. And if you want to cap off the hike, you’ll find one of the region’s most rustic beer gardens by the lake: the Maisinger Seehof.
