Seebensee

TL;DR: Seebensee is a stunning turquoise mountain lake at 1,657m in Austria’s Mieming Mountains, perfect for families and accessible via cable car. Best visited June-September, with easy 2-hour hikes and optional challenging extensions to Drachensee. Expect crowds in summer but incredible views year-round.

Picture this: you’re standing beside a crystal-clear turquoise lake, surrounded by towering Austrian peaks, with the mighty Zugspitze creating a jaw-dropping backdrop. Welcome to Seebensee – quite possibly Austria’s most photogenic mountain lake that somehow still feels like a hidden gem.

Located in the Mieming Mountains just south of Ehrwald, this alpine paradise has been quietly stealing hearts and filling Instagram feeds. But here’s the thing – you don’t need to be a hardcore mountaineer to experience its magic.

Quick Facts About Seebensee

• Elevation: 1,657 meters (5,436 feet)
• Location: Mieming Mountains, Tyrol, Austria
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Best time to visit: June to September
• Hiking time: 2-4 hours roundtrip (from cable car)
• Family-friendly: Absolutely! (with cable car access)
• Stroller-friendly: Yes, on the main gravel road

Why Seebensee Should Top Your Austria Bucket List

The Views Will Blow Your Mind

Seebensee Lake and Drachensee Lake are two of the most beautiful natural high mountain lakes in Europe, and once you see photos, you’ll understand why. The lake’s emerald-blue waters reflect the surrounding peaks like a perfect mirror, creating those postcard-perfect shots that make your friends seriously jealous.

The real showstopper? Probably the most famous view in the direction of the Zugspitze starts from the back of the Seebensee. Germany’s highest peak creates an absolutely epic backdrop that’ll have you questioning if this place is even real.

It’s Way More Accessible Than You Think

Forget grueling all-day climbs. From the cable car mountain station very easily accessible in an hour, definitely worth a visit. The Ehrwalder Almbahn cable car does most of the heavy lifting, literally. You’ll save yourself 400 meters of elevation gain and get more time to actually enjoy the scenery.

Plus, the trail to Seebensee is easy and accessible to mountain bikes and also to strollers with big wheels – making this one of Austria’s most family-friendly alpine adventures.

Getting There: Your Journey Starts Here

By Car (Recommended)

Navigate to Ehrwalder Almbahn, Dr. Ludwig Ganghoferstr 66, 6632 Ehrwald, Austria. There’s a large parking lot at the cable car base station costing €5 per day. Pro tip: arrive early in summer as this popular spot fills up fast!

By Public Transport

• Take the train to Ehrwald Zugspitzebahn station (direct connections from Munich and major Austrian cities)
• Catch a local bus to Ehrwalder Almbahn cable car station
• The cable car runs from 8 AM to 5:30 PM in high season

Distance from Major Cities

• Munich: 1.5 hours drive
• Innsbruck: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Garmisch-Partenkirchen: Just 20 minutes!

The Hike: Multiple Routes for Every Adventure Level

Option 1: Family-Friendly Cable Car Route (Recommended)

Distance: 6km roundtrip | Time: 2-3 hours | Difficulty: Easy

By ascending to the Ehrwald Alp by cableway, you’ll shave off 400 meters of elevation gain and save a lot of time. From the mountain station at 1,508m, it’s a gentle 149m climb to the lake.

The route follows a wide gravel road that’s also used by mountain bikes, making it perfect for families with children or anyone wanting a relaxed mountain experience. You’ll pass through alpine meadows dotted with cows (yes, really!) and enjoy stunning mountain vistas the entire way.

Option 2: Forest Path Alternative

About halfway to the lake, you can choose to leave the wide road and turn left on the alpine track for a part of the hike. This forest trail is quieter, more scenic, and bike-free – perfect for those seeking a more traditional hiking experience.

Option 3: Challenge Seekers – Add Drachensee

Extra distance: 2km each way | Extra time: 45 minutes each way | Difficulty: Steep but manageable

From Seebensee, you can already see the zigzag path running towards the Coburger Hütte, next to Drachensee. This extension takes you to Dragon Lake at 1,874m, offering incredible views back down to Seebensee and the Wetterstein Mountains.

When to Visit: Timing Your Alpine Adventure

Summer (June-September): Peak Season

We recommend hiking to Seebensee and Drachensee only in summer or early autumn. The best time to visit the two lakes is between June and September, and July is the absolute best.

July: Perfect weather, full facilities, but expect crowds August: Warmest temperatures, peak tourist season Early September: Ideal conditions with fewer crowds

Shoulder Season Perks

For a quieter and more picturesque experience, early fall is ideal. The crowds thin out, and the changing foliage creates a stunning backdrop for the hike.

Beat the Crowds

Given the popularity of this Ehrwald destination, we highly recommend visiting off-season and during the week. Start as early as possible to avoid the mid-morning rush. The first cable car runs at 8 AM – be on it!

What to Expect: Your Seebensee Experience

The Lake Itself

The beautiful emerald green water of Seebensee Lake sits like a jewel in an alpine crown. The lake is frozen in winter of course but the sight of it and the hike to get to it made for a wonderful afternoon mini adventure.

You can walk completely around the lake, and there are benches along the southern shore that invite you to rest – perfect for soaking up those views and snapping photos.

Wildlife Encounters

Don’t be surprised to share the trail! You can meet plenty of cute animals on the way back as well, such as cows and highland cattle. We were even lucky enough to spot a large Mountain Goat!

Dining Options

The Seebenalm alpine hut sits near the lake, offering traditional Austrian mountain food. Cash only, so come prepared! For the full alpine experience, pack a picnic and enjoy it lakeside.

Accessibility and Inclusive Travel

Stroller and Wheelchair Access

Great news for families! If you only hike to Seebensee lake, count 1.5 – 2 hours each way, so 3-4 hours total hiking time, and the trail to Seebensee is easy and accessible to mountain bikes and also to strollers with big wheels.

The main gravel road provides excellent accessibility for:

• Large-wheeled strollers
• Wheelchairs (with assistance on steeper sections)
• Families with young children
• Visitors with mobility concerns

Adaptive Options

While the forest path isn’t suitable for wheels, the main road ensures everyone can experience this alpine beauty. The cable car eliminates the most challenging elevation gain, making this adventure accessible to all fitness levels.

Essential Packing List

Must-Haves

• Sturdy hiking shoes: Rocky terrain gets slippery when wet
• Weather layers: Mountain weather changes quickly
• Rain jacket: Always be prepared
• Plenty of water: More than you think you need
• Snacks/lunch: Mountain air makes you hungry
• Camera: Obviously!
• Cash: For cable car, parking, and mountain huts

Optional But Recommended

• Swimming gear: If you’re brave enough for that ice-cold water!
• Trekking poles: Helpful on steeper sections
• Sunscreen: Reflection off water intensifies UV
• Power bank: Those Instagram stories won’t post themselves

Pro Tips from Seasoned Visitors

Photography Gold

After 3 pm, as the sun was disappearing slowly, the color of the surface of the lake was changing as well. It was so beautiful! The golden hour lighting transforms this place into pure magic.

Avoid the Rush

Best to come in the morning, very busy from 1 p.m. when we were returning. Early birds get the best photos and parking spots.

Swimming Reality Check

Yes, It is perfectly safe to swim in the lake but it is REALLY cold. So be prepared with lots of warm clothes to put on afterwards. We’re talking about serious mountain lake cold – but the bragging rights are worth it!

Weather Wisdom

The weather in the mountains can change quickly. Always check the weather forecast before you start hiking. Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable, so layer up and bring rain gear.

Beyond Seebensee: Extend Your Adventure

Nearby Attractions

• Zugspitze: Germany’s highest peak, accessible via Tiroler Zugspitzebahn
• Eibsee Lake: Another stunning alpine lake
• Partnachklamm Gorge: Dramatic canyon experience
• Highline 179: Austria’s longest suspension bridge (19km away)

Perfect Day Trip Combinations

From Seebensee’s base in Ehrwald, you’re perfectly positioned to explore:

• Garmisch-Partenkirchen (20 minutes)
• Plansee Lake (gorgeous for sunset)
• Innsbruck’s old town (1 hour drive)

Accommodation: Where to Rest Your Hiking Boots

Budget-Friendly

Mellow Mountain Hostel (~€43/night for dorm bed)

• Walking distance from train station
• Onsite sauna (perfect after hiking!)
• Modern facilities in traditional chalet

Mid-Range Comfort

Haus Alpenblume (~€122/night)

• Double rooms with terraces
• Traditional Austrian charm
• Great mountain views

Luxury Experience

Romantik Hotel Spielmann (~€259/night)

• Includes breakfast
• Spa facilities
• Premium location

Mountain Hut Adventure

Coburger Hütte (above Drachensee) For the ultimate alpine experience, book a night at this mountain refuge. By staying overnight at the Coburg Cabin you had the chance to be all alone at the lake early in the morning.

Safety and Environmental Considerations

Leave No Trace

Leave nothing but footprints. Please don’t litter, not along the trail, nor somewhere else. This pristine environment depends on respectful visitors.

Trail Conditions

Most mountain resorts in Europe remain open for skiing until Easter. This pretty much says it all – most places in the mountains are still covered by snow mid-April. Always check current conditions before heading out.

Emergency Preparedness

• Download offline maps
• Inform someone of your plans
• Carry a first aid kit
• Know cable car operating hours

The Bottom Line: Is Seebensee Worth It?

Absolutely, 100%, without question – YES! This hike was challenging but 100% worth it. The views the whole way up are spectacular. Once you arrive at Seebensee Lake you are just spoiled with the most beautiful mountain lake you could wish for.

Whether you’re a family looking for an accessible alpine adventure, a photographer chasing that perfect shot, or simply someone who appreciates natural beauty, Seebensee delivers in spades. The combination of accessibility (thanks to that cable car), stunning scenery, and authentic Austrian alpine atmosphere makes this a must-visit destination.

Sure, you might encounter crowds in peak summer, but one look at those turquoise waters reflecting the Zugspitze, and you’ll understand why this place has become such a sensation. Just remember to start early, pack appropriately, and prepare to have your mind blown by one of Austria’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Ready to experience the magic of Seebensee for yourself? Trust us – your Instagram feed (and your soul) will thank you.

Have you hiked to Seebensee? Share your experience and tips in the comments below! And don’t forget to save this guide for your Austria adventure planning.