There’s certainly no shortage of places to swim in the Munich area. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed day at the beach or relaxation on a sandy shore, there’s something here to suit every taste. If you’ve already been to all the well-known lakes and are looking for something new, we highly recommend Simssee. It’s located not far from Lake Chiemsee, but is far less well-known among Munich residents—perfect for a quiet day away from the crowds!
What Remains of Lake Rosenheim
With a surface area of 6.5 km², Simssee is the largest lake in the Rosenheim district. However, there used to be a much larger body of water here: Lake Rosenheim. With an area of 420 km², it was almost as large as Lake Constance, but it gradually turned into a swamp over time. Today, Lake Simssee in the Rosenheim Basin is the last remnant of this vast lake, surrounded by a diverse moorland landscape.
Today, the area around Simssee is a landscape and nature reserve, which is why large parts of its shores have remained untouched . The marshes and riparian forests are home to numerous animal and plant species. You can discover this diversity on a hike or bike ride around the lake —the route is a good 20 kilometers long. It’s ideal for a leisurely outing into nature.
Swimming in Simssee
A trip to Simssee is worth it not only to enjoy the natural surroundings but, of course, also for swimming. There are several swimming spots along the shore where you can cool off in the summer. The entry points are mostly shallow, making the lake well-suited for families with children. Boating is also permitted on Simssee, as long as the boats are non-motorized. This way, you can explore the lake without getting wet.
If you ’re looking for a place to stop for a bite to eat with a lake view at the end of your day at the beach, head to the Simssee Biergarten in Stephanskirchen or the Seewirt Ecking near Riedering. You’ll also get a particularly great view of the water from the Simssee observation tower near Stephanskirchen.
