Lake Starnberg - An excursion by train and boat

Discover the charm of Lake Starnberg and its namesake district town. The lake, which was known as Würmsee until 1962, was formed around 18,000 to 20,000 years ago by the melting of the Isar-Loisach glacier. The run-off meltwater formed the Würm valley, and the northernmost part of the lake basin was transformed into today's Leutstettener Moos.

With its excellent water quality and as the most water-rich lake in Bavaria, Lake Starnberg is a true natural beauty. It sits majestically against the impressive Alpine backdrop - perfect for a relaxing stroll along the shore. Even 200 years ago, the lake was a magnet for Munich's aristocracy and industrialists. Today, magnificent villas, summer residences and charming inns await you here.

Although the centre of Starnberg is not considered an architectural jewel, it is nevertheless home to a number of delightful houses, charming shops and hospitable restaurants that are well worth discovering.

Getting there and starting your day in Starnberg

The train takes you right into the heart of Starnberg, as the station is located directly on the lake. From here, you can walk directly to the shore, enjoy the fantastic view or explore the town. A short walk along the station square takes you to the Lake Starnberg Museum, where you can gain fascinating insights into the history of the lake and its surroundings.

Lake Starnberg Museum - a historic property with a deep history

The museum, which was founded in 1914 on a historic estate, consists of various buildings and outdoor areas. The permanent exhibition focuses on the history of shipping on Lake Starnberg. Highlights include an original dugout canoe, magnificent ceremonial ships of Bavarian dukes and kings as well as the only fully preserved boat of the royal fleet from 1837. The development of steam navigation, the villa colonies on the lake and the railway line are also highlighted here.

A boat tour on Lake Starnberg

A real highlight of your excursion is a boat trip on Lake Starnberg. The Starnberg landing stage is right next to the railway station. The gentle rocking of the boat takes you past chic villas and the Sisi Castle Possenhofen, the former summer residence of the Bavarian royal family. Today the palace is privately inhabited, but even from the water it remains an impressive testimony to Bavarian history.

The votive chapel and the wooden cross: in the footsteps of King Ludwig II.

Between the Leonie and Berg landing stages, you will discover a modest wooden cross in the shallow water - it marks the spot where King Ludwig II was found lifeless on 13 June 1886. Above this memorial is the votive chapel, which was built in neo-Romanesque style and consecrated in 1896. Four years after the foundation stone was laid by Prince Regent Luitpold, it was ceremoniously opened on the 10th anniversary of the king's death. The chapel is idyllically situated in the forest and is an important memorial to the tragic fate of Ludwig II.

The Rose Island: the secret hideaway of Sisi and Ludwig II.

If you opt for the Grand Tour or the Northern Tour, you will pass the idyllic Rose Island. This is where Empress Sisi and King Ludwig II met in secret to escape courtly life. It is the only island in the lake and is home to a historic casino, which King Ludwig II used as a summer residence in the 19th century. The island is known for its beauty, especially during the rose blossom season in the summer months, which gives it its name. However, you can only reach the island by ferry from Feldafing.

Culinary discoveries in Starnberg

After the round trip, you return to Starnberg, where sweet temptations await you opposite the railway station at the Elly Seidl chocolate factory. Here you can sample a colourful mixture of chocolate, truffles and nougat that will delight anyone with a sweet tooth.

If you're feeling peckish, we recommend a visit to the H'ugo's beach club directly on the lakeside promenade, which offers unique moments with its upscale Italian cuisine and views of the lake, the opposite shore and the Alps.

Another culinary highlight for your Lake Starnberg excursion is the restaurant in Seebad Starnberg. The panoramic terrace, which offers a wonderful view of the lake and mountains at any time of day, serves light dishes and emphasises fresh, seasonal ingredients.

A short detour to the north-eastern shore of the lake takes us to the Seestubn Percha. Whether in summer or winter - here you can enjoy a little break by the lake. The cosy restaurant with a view of the lake and mountains, the sunny lakeside terrace and the kiosk offer a feel-good atmosphere.

An unforgettable day trip

Finally, you return to Starnberg railway station, where you start your journey home by train with lots of new impressions and perhaps a few chocolates in your luggage. A day trip to Lake Starnberg is always an experience, characterised by the enchanting landscape, beautiful views of the lake and a wide range of leisure activities.

Whether you decide to take a refreshing dip in the lake, explore the lake on a round trip or enjoy the culinary delights on a walk along the lakeside promenade - Starnberg offers a variety of ways to organise your day.