The Königssee is a lake located in the extreme southeast of the German state of Bavaria, near the border with Austria. It’s all part of the Berchtesgaden National Park. Located at a Jurassic rift it was formed by glaciers during the last ice age. It stretches about 7.7 km. The lake similar to a fjord is surrounded by steeply rising flanks of mountains up to 2700 m. The lake is noted for its clear water and is advertised as the cleanest lake in Germany. For this reason, only electric driven passenger ships, rowing and pedal boats have been permitted on the lake since 1909. Due to its picturesque setting, the lake and surrounding parklands are very popular with tourists and hikers. In addition, the lake’s position surrounded by sheer rock walls creates an echo, which is known for its clarity. St. Bartholomä, a famous pilgrimage church with a small inn nearby, is located on a peninsula about halfway down the western lakeshore. St. Bartholomä and the southern edge can only be reached by boat or via hiking trails up the surrounding mountains.

A vertoramic view over the alpine mountains of the Konigssee in the county of Berchtesgaden - Germany. Photo taken from the Jenner mountain top at the height of 1,870 meters where the beauty of the Berchtesgaden valley and Königssee can be viewed. An overwhelming bird’s eye view for these hikers above green meadows, past cliffy rocks and lake Königssee with all of its magnificence. (by B℮n)