By Vicky · Published Dec. 21st, 2023 · Updated Jan. 27th, 2024
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The walk around Lake Schwansee is a lovely, easy stroll with great views of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Bavarian Alps.
Location
The Schwansee Lake Walk starts from the tourist information at the central roundabout in Hohenschwangau. You can park in any of the large car parks nearby, all of which have a flat rate of €10 for the day. You have to pay to use all toilets, except those up at the castles.
Schwansee Lake Walk Map
Tips for Schwansee Lake Walk
- In summer you can swim in Lake Schwansee.
- This walk can easily be combined with a walk around the Alpsee, just underneath Hohenschwangau Castle.
- It’s very convenient to stay right by the castles and the start of this hike at the superb Ameron Neuschwanstein*
- Check out nearby Füssen for a stroll in a lovely town
- Find other great hikes on our Germany Hiking Page.
Schwansee Lake Walking Route
From the central roundabout of Hohenschwangau, head out a short distance on the road to Füssen, away from the castle. Just past the bus stop, there’s a track heading into the forest on the left. Take this route, which initially parallels the road. Soon you’ll see a path leading off to the left towards Schwansee Lake, and also one of the walking routes to Füssen town. Walk along this path, which leads by a stream and under some cliffs to the circular route around the lake.
Schwansee Lake Loop
It’s best to do this loop in a clockwise direction, so you get the best views on the path in the open on the way back. To head clockwise, turn left at the junction. On this side, the route is jsut through the trees near the lake, and the path is smaller than on the other side. However, soon the path leaves the woods and enters the open area at the far end of the lake.
Continue onwards and you’ll soon reach a bigger track. Turn right to continue the walk around Schwansee Lake, and then turn right again to keep as close to the lake’s edge as possible. There are really great views from here of Neuschwanstein Castle and the Alps across the water. Take a while to admire the scenery before continuing.
Before you complete the loop, the path heads slightly away from the lake and through an area of marsh, but the path remains dry. You’ll see a small lily-covered pond on your right before the path heads through the open and then back into the trees.
Almost immediately you’ll reach the junction you were at near the beginning of the hike. Turn left here to retrace your footsteps back to the car park and the end of the Schwansee Lake Walk.
Guidebooks to explore more of Germany
As mentioned, you can read the Füssen Walking Tour to explore the nearby town. You can also walk around Alpsee for more lovely views of the castle and mountains. Check out our Germany Hiking Page for more great hikes nearby and walking tours of the famous Bavarian cities.
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