Highlight • Lake
Frillensee
Hiking
4.7
(981)
Mountain biking
4.7
(191)
Cycling
4.4
(82)
Frillensee is a tranquil glacial lake nestled in the picturesque Chiemgau Alps, within Germany's Bavarian district of Traunstein. Located approximately five kilometers east of Inzell, this natural monument rests at an elevation of 922 meters above sea level, at the northern base of the Zwiesel mountain. It is renowned as one of Germany's coldest lakes at its altitude, often freezing over as early as November.
Visitors consistently describe Frillensee as a paradise-like sight and an oasis of calm. Its serene…
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Wettersteingebiet einschließlich Latschengürtel bei Mittenwald
Tips
August 10, 2021
Hiking
But it is a very nice place - a little quieter than on the otherwise heavily frequented main circular route.
•Nearby routes
Best routes near Frillensee
4.8
(1319)
6,258
hikers
16.5km
04:56
410m
410m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(144)
568
hikers
13.0km
03:51
340m
340m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(96)
553
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 980 m
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the recommended hiking routes around Frillensee, beyond the main adventure path?
While the Mountain Forest Adventure Trail (Bergwald-Erlebnispfad) from Adlgaß is a popular and family-friendly option, hikers can also explore other paths. A circular trail directly surrounds the lake, offering scenic views. For those seeking longer excursions, Frillensee serves as an excellent starting point for hikes into the surrounding Chiemgau and Berchtesgaden Alps, with various routes branching off into the forest.
Is there ample parking available near Frillensee, and are there any fees?
The primary parking area is the Adlgaß hiking car park, which is the starting point for the Mountain Forest Adventure Trail. While generally sufficient, parking can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, weekends, and holidays. Arriving earlier in the day is strongly recommended to secure a spot. Specific fees for parking are usually posted on-site.
How can I reach Frillensee using public transport?
Frillensee is primarily accessible by car or bicycle, as it's nestled in a more secluded natural area. Public transport options to the immediate vicinity are limited. Visitors typically drive to the Adlgaß hiking car park and then proceed on foot or by bike. Checking local bus schedules for routes to Inzell and then considering a taxi or a longer walk/bike ride from there would be the best approach.
Are dogs permitted on the trails around Frillensee, and what should owners be aware of?
Yes, dogs are generally permitted on the trails around Frillensee. However, as the lake and its surroundings are a designated nature reserve, it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash at all times to protect the local wildlife and flora. Owners should also ensure they clean up after their pets to maintain the pristine environment.
What makes Frillensee a particularly good destination for families with children?
Frillensee is highly recommended for families due to its tranquil atmosphere and accessible trails. The Mountain Forest Adventure Trail (Bergwald-Erlebnispfad) is specifically designed with interactive stations that engage children, teaching them about local flora and fauna in a playful way. The relatively flat circular path around the lake is also easy for younger children to navigate, and there are numerous benches for picnicking and resting.
Is Frillensee suitable for a winter hike, and what activities are possible on the frozen lake?
Frillensee is indeed suitable for winter hikes and offers a magical experience when covered in snow. Due to its exceptionally low temperatures, the lake often freezes over as early as November, developing a reliably thick ice cover. While no longer used for competitive events, the frozen lake remains a popular spot for casual ice skating. Always exercise caution and ensure the ice is sufficiently thick before venturing onto it.
How crowded does Frillensee typically get during peak season or on weekends?
While Frillensee is often described as a 'hidden gem' and 'oasis of calm,' its popularity has grown. It can become moderately crowded, especially on sunny weekends, public holidays, and during the peak summer and autumn seasons. Arriving early in the morning or visiting on weekdays can help ensure a more peaceful experience. Despite the visitors, many still find it quieter than other heavily frequented main routes.
Are there any cafes, restaurants, or accommodation options directly near Frillensee?
Directly at the lake, there are no cafes or restaurants. However, the nearby Forsthaus Adlgaß, located close to the main hiking car park, offers a welcoming spot for traditional Bavarian delicacies and has a beer garden. For accommodation, visitors typically look for options in the nearby municipality of Inzell, which offers various hotels, guesthouses, and holiday apartments.
Why is swimming not permitted in Frillensee, and are there alternative water activities nearby?
Swimming is not permitted in Frillensee because the lake and its surroundings are designated as a nature reserve. This status helps protect its unique ecosystem, including the upland moor and diverse flora. While swimming is restricted, visitors can enjoy the water's beauty from the shore, picnic, or in winter, engage in casual ice skating. For swimming, visitors would need to explore other lakes or public pools in the wider Chiemgau region.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints around Frillensee?
Frillensee itself is a notable natural feature, renowned as one of Germany's coldest lakes at its altitude and for freezing from the center outwards. The lake is surrounded by an upland moor with diverse flora on its northern bank, which is part of its nature reserve status. The circular trail around the lake offers various viewpoints, providing stunning reflections of the surrounding Chiemgau and Berchtesgaden Alps on the calm water. The nearby Goldnes Brünndl is also a short tributary feeding the lake.
What is the historical significance of Frillensee, particularly regarding winter sports?
Frillensee holds significant historical importance for German winter sports, especially speed skating. Due to its reliably thick ice, it served as a venue for Bavarian and German championships in speed skating and ice hockey in the early 1960s. The local ice hockey club, DEC Frillensee Inzell, still bears its name. However, due to harsh weather, competitive events moved to the artificial Max Aicher Arena in Inzell after 1963, though the lake remains popular for casual ice skating.