Eibsee

The Eibsee lies at about a thousand metres directly under the north face of the Zugspitze, formed when a huge rockfall from the mountain dammed the valley in prehistory; the debris left eight small wooded islands and several bays. The water is exceptionally clear, taking a strong turquoise over the pale rockfall debris on the bottom. A path of about seven kilometres runs right round the shore, mostly level, and rowing boats and pedalos are hired at the northern end. The cable car and cog railway to the Zugspitze summit both start close by.

What you actually see

• The turquoise water - clarity over pale rockfall debris on the bed.
• The eight islands - small wooded islets left by the ancient landslide.
• The Zugspitze face - Germany's highest mountain rising directly behind.
• The shore circuit - a level seven-kilometre path round the lake.

When to go

May to October for the circuit and boats; the lake freezes in hard winters. Parking is paid and fills early on summer weekends. Early morning gives the stillest water.

Honest expectations

Parking is expensive and full by mid-morning in season. The water is very cold for swimming even in August. The path is busy on fine weekends.

Nearby

The Zugspitze rises above; Garmisch-Partenkirchen lies east.