Lake Constance to Lake Königssee

Welcome to Lindau, an enchanting lakeside town nestled on the shores of Lake Constance. This island town exudes a relaxed holiday charm, with its winding cobblestone streets, flower-decked promenades and views that stretch across the glistening lake to the distant peaks of the Alps.

After checking in, spend your afternoon exploring the highlights of Lindau at your own pace. Wander to the famous harbour, where the majestic Bavarian Lion statue stands proudly beside the lighthouse. The views from here are spectacular, especially as the sun begins to dip below the horizon. Take a gentle stroll through the historic old town, where pastel façades, boutique shops and inviting cafés create a welcoming atmosphere. For dinner, choose one of the lakeside restaurants to enjoy fresh local fish and regional specialities paired with a crisp glass of German wine.

Your first cycling day begins along the peaceful lakeshore, following gentle paths surrounded by orchards and meadows. Soon, you’ll leave Lake Constance behind and start your journey north along the German-Austrian border. Take one last look back to admire the panoramic view of the Alps reflecting in the lake’s calm waters.

As you head inland, the scenery transforms into rolling hills and lush farmland dotted with traditional Bavarian chalets. Pause in small villages along the way to enjoy coffee and freshly baked pastries or to chat with locals about rural life in this part of Germany.

By afternoon, you’ll arrive in Oberstaufen, a vibrant market town known for its spa culture and Alpine traditions. Treat yourself to a visit to a local cheese dairy to learn how the region’s famous cheeses are crafted, or take a short walk through the town centre, where colourful buildings and inviting inns create a postcard-perfect atmosphere.

Today’s route is filled with breathtaking scenery and cultural gems. You’ll cycle through tranquil valleys framed by mountains and past the shimmering Lake Alpsee, where you can pause to take in the reflections of the surrounding forests. Continue to Immenstadt, a town rich in history, where highlights include the Alte Hof, once the seat of noble families, and the charming Villa Edelweiß.

From here, the trail leads past Lake Rottachsee and a series of beautifully adorned chapels, each one showcasing local craftsmanship. The peaceful rhythm of the ride continues as you make your way to Nesselwang, a beloved spa resort nestled in the foothills of the Alps.

The final stretch of the day offers stunning views of Lakes Hopfensee and Forggensee, with the fairy-tale silhouettes of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles appearing on the horizon. This area feels straight out of a storybook, and it’s worth taking a detour to visit one of these iconic landmarks before settling in for the night.

Departing Füssen, you’ll ride through peaceful farmland and alongside the serene Lake Bannwaldsee, its waters often shimmering under the morning light. Your route leads to the Wieskirche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of Bavarian Rococo architecture. Take time to explore its ornate interior and learn about its fascinating history before continuing through open countryside.

The journey continues through small villages and alongside meadows bursting with wildflowers. As you near Murnau, the scenery changes dramatically — the Murnauer Moos moorlands unfold before you, a vast natural reserve rich in birdlife and rare flora.

Arriving in Murnau feels like entering an artist’s paradise. The town was once home to members of the Expressionist “Blue Rider” movement, and its charm remains undeniable. Enjoy a stroll along the lakeside promenade by Lake Staffelsee, with its seven small islands and a spectacular Alpine backdrop.

Today’s ride is full of scenic contrasts. Begin by cycling past the deep blue Lake Kochelsee, a place of calm surrounded by rugged peaks. The route leads through Benediktbeuern, a town with a rich monastic heritage, before reaching Bad Tölz, famous for its beautifully painted townhouses and lively market square. Take a moment to wander along Marktstraße, where every façade tells a story through its colourful murals.

After a well-earned break, the landscape opens into the rolling hills of the Tegernsee region, one of Bavaria’s most beloved lake areas. From Gmund, enjoy sweeping views over the turquoise waters of Lake Tegernsee, a perfect spot for a photo or even a refreshing swim in summer.

Following the Lake Constance–Königssee cycle route, you’ll end your day at Schliersee, a peaceful Alpine lake fringed by forests and walking trails. Unwind with a lakeside dinner and soak up the tranquil mountain atmosphere.

This morning, follow the lakeshore before cycling through the gentle foothills of Bavaria towards Bad Feilnbach, known as the “Bavarian Merano” thanks to its mild climate and abundance of fruit trees. Stop for a taste of local apple juice or cider, freshly pressed from the region’s orchards.

Continue through the vast peat bogs of Kollerfilze, an area of unique ecological importance. Soon you’ll reach Neubeuern, a small town with a rich shipbuilding history symbolised by two crossed ship hooks on its emblem. Its picturesque square and mountain backdrop make it a perfect spot for a mid-day rest.

The route then leads along the base of the Chiemgau Alps, bringing you to the shores of Lake Chiemsee, affectionately called the “Bavarian Sea.” Here you can visit Herrenchiemsee Palace, built by King Ludwig II, or simply relax by the lakeside.

Your final cycling day is one to remember. Though the mountains rise higher, the route remains largely gentle as it passes through the Bergener Moos, a lush plain beneath the Hochfelln peak. Continue via Bad Adelholzen to Siegsdorf, where small cafés provide a perfect morning break.

Next, cycle into Inzell, a spa town known for its charming Alpine houses adorned with traditional frescoes known as Lüftlmalerei. The air is fresh and fragrant with pine as you follow the Saalach River through Piding towards Bad Reichenhall, a spa resort famed for its salt springs and elegant architecture. Treat yourself to a slice of cake at the iconic Konditorei Reber, home of the original Mozartkugel chocolates.

The final stretch leads into the dramatic mountain scenery of Berchtesgaden, with Lake Königssee shimmering beneath towering cliffs. It’s the perfect finale to your cycling adventure across southern Germany.