Chiemsee refers to the freshwater lake in southern Bavaria as well as the small town of Chiemsee, which exists on two of the islands located in the lake itself. The islands, Herreninsel and Fraueninsel have small year-round populations but attract visitors during the summer. Herreninsel boasts a castle intended to be a replica of the Palace of Versailles, and Fraueninsel has a Benedictine Nunnery in which the nuns make a special liquor and marzipan. The lake is quite large-about 80 square kilometers (30 square miles)-and offers all kinds of water sports during the warm season.
With the mighty snow-capped Watzmann forming its backdrop, Berchtesgadener Land is a beautiful canvas awash in myriad colors of nature. It is essentially characterized by verdant hilly regions, glassy lakes, and medieval houses exuding an old world charm. It comprises three towns, namely Bad Reichenhall, Freilassing and Laufen and several smaller municipalities. Attractions like Berchtesgaden National Park and Königssee beckon tourists from far and wide. This quaint mountainous district is also a popular holiday destination for the locals.
Königssee, a natural gem, located within the Berchtesgaden National Park, is known for its glorious emerald-colored waters and the gorgeous panoramas it offers. Nestled within the majestic alpine regions of Bavaria, the freshwater lake stretches to almost 7.7 kilometers (4.8 miles) in length and 1.7 kilometers (1.1 miles) in width. No matter what time of year it is, Königssee makes for a beautiful view. In summer, this shining lake, an oasis of clear water, is flanked by thick stands of lush forests, while spring welcomes picturesque waterfalls that run into the lake. Fall turns the surrounding forests into a patchwork of reds and golds and the winter sees ice move across the surface of the lake, creating a natural skating rink. There's an electric launch that ferries visitors around the regal lake for those who do not have a boat of their own.
A beautiful pilgrimage church, St. Bartholomew's was built in 1697, and features a striking red-domed roof with two onion domes that can be spotted from a distance. The interior of the church displays stunning stucco work attributed to renowned Salzburg artist Joseph Schmidt, and the church's spellbinding architecture and surrounds draw numerous visitors to its steps. A pilgrimage to the church takes place every year.
In the town of Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden, the Wimbachklamm gorge is one of the most prominent attractions. Comprised mainly of limestone and featuring stunning waterfalls, the area is accessible by piers created in the 19th century, allowing visitors to embark on a short trek across the platform to admire the landscape's beauty.