Why Traunstein is an Ideal Starting Point

Easily accessible water, mountain, and moor landscapes cluster around Traunstein into a particularly varied excursion area. Lake Chiemsee is the central hub for views, swimming fun, and tours; nearby local mountains provide panoramic views; moors tell nature's history; gorges and waterfalls add drama to the scene; and at the Winklmoos-Alm, an officially designated star park opens a window to the cosmos.

Chiemsee: Shore Moments, Cycle Circuit, and Herrenchiemsee

Chiemsee is quickly reachable from Traunstein and as versatile as a small sea. The approximately 55–60 kilometer long, signposted lakeside trail loops once around the lake – ideal for bikes, e-bikes, or as a multi-stage hiking route. Nowhere else do open shores, bathing bays, bird habitats, and promenades alternate so rapidly.

• Panorama without steps: On the south and east shores, several viewing towers and platforms provide lake and Alpine vistas – practical for families, strollers, and leisurely walks.
• Culture on the water: The famous Herrenchiemsee Palace complex is on the Herreninsel; its neighbor, Fraueninsel, has a tradition of monasteries. Both combine lake air with history.
• Beach and quiet corners: Open shoreline sections alternate with lidos. In the off-season, you often find quiet bays on calm days – a tip for spring and autumn.

Sustainable cycling tip: Start early, avoid hotspots at midday, and combine bike & train. This is relaxing, disperses visitor flows, and supports lakeside towns – from breakfast at the kiosk to dinner at the inn.

Reach for the Heights: Hochfelln, Kampenwand, Rauschberg

The Chiemgau Alps form the backdrop for spectacular views and photo opportunities.

• Hochfelln: Known as the "observation balcony" of the region – in clear weather, the view stretches across dozens of lakes into the Central Alps. Easy trails, alpine huts, and (seasonal) mountain railways add to the anticipation on the way up.
• Kampenwand: Jagged rock scenery and one of the most striking summit crosses of the Bavarian Alps. Sunrises and sunsets are dramatic – don’t forget a headlamp and to plan your return.
• Rauschberg: Near Ruhpolding, trails access scenic slopes. Families pick relaxed variants; photography fans frame the Alpine foothills through the lens.

Safety before summit happiness: Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Check the forecast, start early, bring enough water, sun protection, and a warm layer.

Bathing Lakes and Quiet Waters: Waginger See to Taubensee

• Waginger See: Considered the warmest bathing lake in Upper Bavaria. Shallow banks, lidos, sunbathing lawns, and cycle paths make it a summer magnet. Particularly quiet: early and late weeks of the season.
• Dreiseen Area: Weitsee, Mittersee, and Lödensee shine in clear green and blue tones. Parking spaces fill up quickly – those who come early or on weekdays enjoy more relaxation.
• Taubensee: Remote, atmospheric mountain lake. Early in the morning, wisps of fog often drift across the water – nature film atmosphere.
• Small mountain jewels: Förchensee and Falkensee are known for their clear water. Please respect sensitive banks and bathe only at designated spots.

Family bonus for changeable weather: Ruhpolding amusement park and Siegsdorf Nature Museum with Europe's most complete mammoth find complement the nature program.

Moors and Geotopes: Kendlmühlfilzen, Demmelfilzen and Rötelmoos

Moors have shaped the Chiemsee foreland for centuries. They store water, bind CO₂ and are quiet refuges for rare species.

• Kendlmühlfilzen: Boardwalks safely cross the open moor, observation towers offer wide horizons; in summer cottongrass meadows glow.
• Demmelfilzen (near Traunstein): Ideal for short, nature-close loops. Information boards explain origin and renaturation – exciting for school classes.
• Rötelmoos Plateau: Designated as a geotope – quiet alpine pastures, clear streams, and family-friendly paths.
• Tiroler Achen, estuary area: Large protected area and a paradise for birdwatching; a well-paved cycle route runs through the alluvial forest mosaic.

Respect tip: Stay on the trails, keep dogs on a leash, leave plants alone – sensitive habitats are preserved this way.

Gorges, Waterfalls, and the Winklmoos-Alm by Night

• Klausenbachklamm: Adventurous path with secured sections. After rain, the spectacle is particularly impressive – wear non-slip footwear in wet conditions.
• Hausbach-Waterfall: Nicely laid-out path above the village; for experienced visitors there are nearby via ferrata options.
• Entenlochklamm: The Tiroler Ache has carved deep into the rock; viewpoints provide safe insights into the wild river valley.
• Star Park Winklmoos-Alm: Officially designated star park with an especially dark night sky – perfect for shooting stars, the Milky Way, and astrophotography.

Note for the night: Warm clothes, a headlamp with red light mode, and consideration for the rest periods of alpine animals. Please only use existing parking and rest areas.

Practical Tips: Season, Arrival, Responsibility

• Arrival & mobility: Traunstein is well connected by train. Many destinations can be combined with bike or regional buses; e-bikes expand your range – plan batteries and charging options in advance.
• Best travel times: Spring and autumn offer clear views and peaceful paths. In summer, early starts, weekdays, and alternative destinations help relieve hotspots.
• Weather & safety: Thunderstorms can develop quickly. Check the weather report, plan your tour for daylight, bring enough water, sun protection, and a warm layer.
• Local cuisine & crafts: Alpine huts, bakeries, and inns focus on regional products – good for taste and local value creation.
• Sustainability: Observe signage for visitor guidance, take your rubbish with you, respect sensitive areas such as moors and gravel banks.

The Promised Answers

• The early warm swimming lake: Waginger See.
• The especially clear starry sky: Winklmoos-Alm (Star Park).

Voices from the Region (Experiences)

Short, literal excerpts from Google Maps reviews of Winklmoos-Alm (excerpt, accessed 2025-11-13):

"Very good and highly recommended for beginners."

— Vinod Sharma, Google Maps

"The short hike from the valley station to Winklmoosalm was strenuous but rewarding … great plateau with beautiful views."

— Jens Klinger, Google Maps

"Nice place for cycling and hiking. There is also good food there."

— Matthias L., Google Maps

More reviews: Winklmoos-Alm on Google Maps