Lake Hopfensee

Water and mountains, diverse cuisine, and warm hospitality – experience all this while relaxing and strolling along the Allgäu Riviera around the beautiful Hopfensee lake in the village of Hopfen am See, part of the municipality of Füssen. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery with its magnificent panoramic views of the Alpine peaks. And on a clear day, you can even catch a glimpse of Neuschwanstein Castle from certain vantage points. During a relaxing break by the lake – whether with friends, as a couple, with your family, or even for a wellness retreat on your own – there’s so much more to discover besides the many popular leisure activities! Find out exactly what here.

3 highlights at Lake Hopfensee in the Allgäu pre-Alps

• 180-degree panoramic view of the Alps
• The “Allgäu Riviera” for strolling
• Wellness holidays and many more activities in winter or summer

Flora and fauna in the protected landscape area at Lake Hopfensee

Lake Hopfensee is one of the warmest lakes in the Bavarian foothills, reaching temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius in summer. A protected landscape area surrounds the lake, home to rare plants and nesting sites for waterfowl. It’s not just tourists who feel at home here, but also great crested grebes, coots, wild ducks, and herons. To protect the birds, boats are prohibited in certain zones. Buoys mark these protected areas. Furthermore, all shoreline vegetation is legally protected – except for that on the eastern shore.

Lake Hopfensee: facts and history

Lake Hopfensee lies north of Füssen (Ostallgäu district) in Bavaria. It has a total surface area of ​​1.84 square kilometers, a length of approximately 2.1 kilometers, and a circumference of 6.8 kilometers. In some places, Lake Hopfensee is over 10 meters deep.

Lake Hopfensee is a so-called “dead-ice” lake, as it was formed during the Ice Age (Würm glaciation) by ebbs of the Lech Glacier. The lake is therefore a type of basin or remnant lake, carved out by a glacier during the last Ice Age. At that time, Lake Füssen dominated the Lech region in the Alpine foothills, and Lake Hopfensee is a section of it, located west of Lake Forggensee near Füssen.

Hopfen am See – a Kneipp spa and climatic health resort in the pre-Alps

Well-being is paramount at Lake Hopfensee in the Allgäu region of Bavaria: Located directly on the lake, the small, officially recognized Kneipp and air spa resort of Hopfen am See is also known as the “Allgäu Riviera.” The moment you stroll along the lakeside promenade, you’ll understand why the town deserves this name. The breathtaking views of the peaks of the Ammergau, Lechtal, Tannheim, and Allgäu Alps are equally impressive.

Hopfen am See is always worth a visit, and the range of leisure activities is enormous. Its lakeside location is perfect for an exciting day trip or a romantic weekend getaway, for a short or long break, a Kneipp cure, or a wellness holiday with friends. Even those traveling alone to find peace and quiet and unwind will find it the perfect place.

Hopfen am See – a brief dive into history

The village of Hopfen was first documented in 1172. The first inhabitants of Hopfenburg Castle, which sits high above Lake Hopfen and is a fantastic destination for excursions in the region, were the vassals Kunrat and Herung “de Hophen” of Duke Welf VI.

The Catholic parish church of St. Peter and Paul, now a listed building, also dates from this period and, after renovations, shows traces of several eras. The initial construction of the building is estimated to date back to after the year 1000, while the church tower dates to the 12th century.

After the First World War (1914 to 1918), the municipality of Hopfen am See was formed from the hamlets of the so-called hamlet of Hopfen (Bebele, Vilser, Enzensberg). Hopfen, with its approximately 1,100 inhabitants, has only been part of the town of Füssen since 1978.

Füssen on Lake Forggensee – in the heart of the Allgäu

Fancy a stroll through a town and some culture? The next largest town, Füssen, is just a stone’s throw away – a good four kilometers – from the idyllic Hopfensee and easily reachable by car. Situated at the crossroads of Munich, Augsburg, and Innsbruck, the southern part of the historic town of Füssen borders Austria. This charming town invites you to a romantic stroll through its medieval streets, all against a breathtaking mountain backdrop – with the high peaks of the Ammergau Alps in the background and the blue waters of Lake Forggensee.

Culture is also not neglected in Füssen: Architectural highlights and museums include, for example, the monastery and church of St. Mang, the High Castle with the State Gallery or the Museum of the City of Füssen.

Back at picturesque Lake Hopfensee

At the beautiful Hopfensee, with its diverse flora and fauna and natural forest, you can experience a special getaway and truly pamper yourself. Are you looking for the perfect place for wellness, relaxation, and tranquility? Or would you prefer activities like hiking, water sports, cycling, or ice skating and curling in winter? Or perhaps you’re planning a romantic escape for two? Anything is possible at Hopfensee in Bavaria.

Pure culinary delights at Lake Hopfensee

It’s not just the unique natural experiences at Lake Hopfensee that bring joy, but also culinary delights. And both are plentiful on the Allgäu Riviera. With the Alpine peaks always in view, restaurants, inns, beer gardens, and cafés line the lakeside promenade in the northern part of Lake Hopfensee, catering to every taste. In summer, one of the terraces with a lake view is a wonderful place to relax.

Here you can truly relax in the sun – whether with a cappuccino, cake, ice cream, or a refreshing spritz. In the cold winter months, the cozy inns beckon, tempting you with regional specialties such as Allgäu-style cheese spaetzle, hearty pancake soup, potato dumplings with sauerkraut, schnitzel, Kaiserschmarren, and other delicacies. Vegetarian options are also readily available.

Good to know: The southern part of the lake is a nature reserve. Enjoy the calming effect of the beautiful natural surroundings during a walk – it’s the perfect place to unwind and escape the stresses of everyday life.

Leisure activities at Lake Hopfensee – for every season

Swimming in the lakes, hiking in the mountains, ice skating and curling, or simply relaxing and unwinding? It’s the many highlights and contrasting landscapes that make Lake Hopfensee a special and exciting travel and excursion destination. Whether summer or winter – Lake Hopfensee is charming and worth a visit in every season.

Winter wonderland at Lake Hopfensee

Horse-drawn sleigh rides, curling, ice skating – in winter, Lake Hopfensee offers its guests a very special atmosphere: everything seems much more peaceful and quiet. The lake and its surroundings are particularly beautiful when snow falls and the soft flakes transform everything into a glittering white landscape. If the frost persists for an extended period, Lake Hopfensee will also freeze over.

Romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides

Then it’s time for romantic horse-drawn sleigh rides through the snow-covered Allgäu region, circling Lake Hopfensee. With a hot drink in hand, snuggled up in blankets, you can enjoy the winter wonderland in a cozy atmosphere with your loved one, creating unforgettable moments with this excursion.

Traditional sport of ice stock sport – guaranteed fun!

Be sure to try curling. This sport is an integral part of the Allgäu region’s traditions. You’ll be surprised and delighted by the fun of sliding the curling stones as close as possible to the target, called the “puck” (or “house”). Equipment can be rented – warm winter boots with non-slip soles are a must. Curling would be a wonderful change of pace if, during a relaxing wellness holiday with your girlfriends, you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.

Hotspot for ice skating in a winter paradise

The frozen Hopfensee is also perfect for ice skating – for the whole family, hand in hand as a couple, or even alone if your loved ones prefer to use the time for other activities. Then it’s time to swap your winter boots for ice skates. Against a stunning mountain backdrop, you can glide along a few lanes or spin a few pirouettes – pure joy is guaranteed.

Ice sailing and skaters on Lake Hopfensee

Fans of extreme sports like ice sailing or ice skating, with or without a kite, find the frozen Hopfensee a blast. And spectators also enjoy watching the ice sailors and skaters speed past at high speed on the mirror-like surface of the lake.

Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere can also enjoy the region around the lake for winter hiking, cross-country skiing, or simply a leisurely stroll in the winter sun.

Insider tip: The routes through the forest towards Faulensee and Beichelstein, as well as the cross-country ski trails at Hopfensee, are well signposted and ideal for winter sports activities.

Summer, sun and fun at Lake Hopfensee

When summer temperatures soar and it gets pleasantly warm in the Allgäu region, Lake Hopfensee offers a refreshing respite. The swimming season starts as early as May, as the warmest lake in the Alpine foothills already reaches comfortable temperatures for swimming.

Kiteboarding, surfing, fishing & more – more than just a perfect swimming lake!

Swimming, fishing, kitesurfing, pedal boating, stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relaxing in a deck chair on the shore of Lake Hopfensee, soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful view – here by the water, all your wishes will be fulfilled, whether you’re looking for water sports or pure relaxation.

Lake Hopfensee is one of the most popular swimming lakes in the Allgäu region, as its gently sloping shoreline offers ideal conditions for easy access to the water, allowing you to quickly enjoy a refreshing dip in its clear waters, especially on hot days. With sunbathing lawns, parasols, swimming jetties with ladders, and bathing islands, nothing stands in the way of a perfect swim at Lake Hopfensee.

Those who prefer a more active summer and prefer to be on the water are spoiled for choice: On the Allgäu Riviera, you have many options available – even beyond water sports:

• Kiteboarding
• Surfing
• Stand-up paddling
• Pedal boating
• Fishing trips
• Beach volleyball
• Kneipp therapy in the Kneipp pool by the lake
• Table tennis
• Mini golf
• Hiking
• Cycling

Tip: Right on the lakeside promenade, you can rent pedal boats, kayaks, rowboats, electric boats, stand-up paddleboards, or fishing boats from the public boat rental companies. Fishing permits are also available at the marina on Lake Hopfensee, which you can use for a fishing trip on the lake starting in May.

Kneipp cure right on Lake Hopfensee

Health-conscious vacationers will also find plenty to enjoy at Lake Hopfensee, as the air and Kneipp spa resort of Hopfen am See (which has held this designation since 1968) is ideally suited for a Kneipp cure in accordance with the health teachings of the famous priest Sebastian Kneipp. The top highlight is the floating Kneipp island in Lake Hopfensee, which you can reach via a footbridge. Here you can enjoy Kneipp therapy in the lake water pools while watching beautiful sunsets.

On the lakeside promenade, those interested can learn more about Kneipp’s health philosophy: installations such as thought benches with quotes from Kneipp and fragrant, walk-in herb spirals on the lake shore show that there is more to the holistic teaching than just water treading.

Kneipp’s insider tips: In summer, guided tours on the theme of “Nature, enjoyment, balance – experiencing the healing power of the Allgäu” begin. And on the easily navigable Kneipp cycle route, which is over 22.9 kilometers long and takes about two hours, you can enjoy sporting activities combined with relaxation and the five pillars (water, exercise, herbs, nutrition, and inner balance) entirely in keeping with Kneipp’s teachings.

Hiking and cycling at Lake Hopfensee: excursions in the Allgäu

Hopfensee offers the perfect starting point for hikes or bike tours with a mountain bike or e-bike. From here, you can embark on excursions around the lake and through the picturesque Allgäu Alpine foothills. You are in a true hiker’s paradise with a multitude of trails amidst nature. The most popular tours are:

Popular circular hiking trail around Lake Hopfensee

A short hike (or a longer walk) around the beautiful lake, with stunning mountain views and through shady stretches of forest, takes about two hours, depending on your pace. Along the way, you’ll find plants, water birds, and a number of wood carvings to discover. During or after your walk, you can stop for a break at a charming country inn on the lakeside promenade or refresh yourself with a dip in the water. In winter, the paths around the lake are cleared and gritted.

Key facts: length: 6.9 km; elevation gain: 15 m; duration: 2:00 h

Insider tip: If you prefer peace and quiet, the best time to set off is early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy the idyllic lake in peace. It’s the perfect time to listen to the birds and soak up the tranquil atmosphere of nature. It’s also the ideal moment for fantastic photos that will make your stay at Lake Hopfensee unforgettable.

Popular hiking tours around Lake Hopfensee in the Allgäu

Stroll along the shore, hike up to the Hopfensee castle ruins, or take a leisurely pleasure walk – you can enjoy all of that at beautiful Lake Hopfensee.

Hiking destination: Hopfen am See castle ruins

This circular hike, with a moderately steep climb, leads to the Hopfen Castle ruins, or more precisely, to the remains of the oldest castle in the Allgäu region. A forest path winds its way up to the ruins, offering a delightful walk through wooded areas. Once at the top, a reward awaits: a breathtaking view of Lake Hopfen, the surrounding castles, and the Alps. Benches and tables provide the perfect spot to enjoy a picnic.

Key facts: length: 2.5 km; elevation gain: 107 m; duration: 1 hour

Insider tip: For those who want to reach the castle and the viewing platform more quickly, take the path from the Hopfen village shop at Uferpromenade 21a via the Burgweg directly up to the castle ruins.

Circular route from Lake Hopfensee to Lake Faulensee

This tour follows the Dotzenwangweg trail from the Hopfensee lakeside promenade to the idyllic Faulensee lake. The varied, roughly ten-kilometer hike along pleasant paths, surrounded by deep green spruce forests, is well-suited for beginners. You’ll reach Faulensee in about three hours (depending on your pace). Once there, you can take a refreshing dip in the wonderfully clear water or enjoy a snack and drinks at the Faulenseehütte (Faulensee Hut).

Key facts: length: 7.9 km; elevation gain: 126 m; duration: 2:30 h

More enjoyable hikes through the beautiful nature of the Allgäu

• Cheese and Beer Hike: This hike focuses on the beautiful scenery of the Alpine foothills and, above all, culinary delights. Delicious Allgäu cheese specialties are available at the dairies, and at the end of the tour, you can reward yourself with a refreshing regional beer at a brewery in the village of Speiden. The hike takes approximately 2 hours, is about 7 kilometers long, and involves only 28 meters of elevation gain.
• Eschacher panoramic loop between Hopfen and Forggensee (Füssen): This hike, a bit more challenging, is 9.5 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 109 meters. Depending on your pace, the hike takes about 3 hours. You’ll have constant views of the magnificent peaks that watch over the Füssen region: the Ammergau, Lechtal, and Tannheim mountains. The trail leads via Eschach to the Bleick/Blaik viewpoint, offering a breathtaking view of Lake Forggensee. From there, the route returns to Lake Hopfensee, where you can reward yourself with a hearty snack or coffee and cake.
• Beichelstein Round: This longer hike (approximately 17 kilometers) takes you from Lake Hopfen (starting at the lakeside promenade) across sunny meadows and through the shady Hopfen Forest to the Beichelstein Alpine pasture at an altitude of 1,305 meters. Expect moderate inclines (502 meters of elevation gain) and allow plenty of time. The day trip takes about 5 to 6 hours. The return journey leads past the Hopfen Castle ruins.
• Herb walk at Lake Hopfensee: Also popular is the herb walk, meeting at the Hopfen am See village shop. It starts at 10:00 a.m. every other Tuesday at Uferstraße 21a. During the relaxed, approximately two-hour walk, you will learn about local herbs and discover everything about the effects and uses of nettles and other plants.

Cycling tours in the beautiful pre-Alps around Lake Hopfensee

For those who enjoy cycling in the mountains and want to take in the panoramic views of the Alps, the following cycling tours around Lake Hopfensee in the Allgäu region are highly recommended:

• Emmental Cycle Path Tour: This bike tour requires a reasonable level of fitness, as the route is almost 60 kilometers long and takes around 4 hours with 360 meters of elevation gain. Inspired by the delicious Allgäu cheeses (Emmentaler, Bergkäse, Rohkäse) made from high-quality milk from the Allgäu region, the Emmentaler Cycle Path leads past five small dairies, cheese dairies, and breweries. Here, you can gain interesting insights into the production processes at the demonstration dairies and purchase products directly on site.
• Southern Hopferwald Loop: This 16-kilometer bike tour, with only 179 meters of elevation gain, is a bit more relaxed. It takes about an hour and a half, and there are plenty of opportunities to leave the forest and bike paths for a swim in Lake Hopfensee or Lake Forggensee, or to take a short break along the way.
• Hopfensee–Weißensee loop: 26.8 km long, 185 m elevation gain, duration around 2 hours – on this picturesque bike tour through the Allgäu landscape – via Füssen, Bad Faulenbach and Weißensee – beautiful views of the mountains and lakes are constant companions. And isn’t it wonderful to take swimming breaks at Lake Hopfensee and Weißensee in between, to picnic on the shores there or simply jump into the clear water?

Other tourist attractions around Lake Hopfensee

Bavaria is also the region for fairytale castles – the most famous of which, and always worth a visit, is Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairytale castle is actually right next door – in the idyllic Hohenschwangau valley on the edge of the Alps, near Füssen in the Allgäu region.

But other castles in the area, other towns, lakes, and sights are just as impressive as Neuschwanstein. Among the favorites are:

• Hohenschwangau Castle
• High Castle of Füssen
• St. Mang Monastery
• Museum of the Bavarian Kings
• Historic town of Füssen
• Kneipp spa resort of Hopfen am See
• Lake Forggensee, Lake Faulensee, Lake Alpsee

In short: The Allgäu region and the area around Lake Hopfensee near Füssen are extremely diverse with their many leisure activities – perfect for a well-deserved break to relax and unwind or for many other activities.