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Germany
Bavaria
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Allgäu
Ostallgäu

Forggensee

Top 20 Lakes around Forggensee

Best lakes around Forggensee, a prominent man-made lake in Bavaria, Germany, stands as the fifth largest lake in the region and Germany's largest reservoir by area. Situated north of Füssen, it offers recreational opportunities amidst the Bavarian Alps. The lake is artificial, created in 1954 by damming the River Lech, and reaches its full level from June to mid-October, playing a role in flood prevention and electricity generation. It provides a setting for aquatic sports, cycling, and hiking.

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Last updated: May 14, 2026

View of Forggensee near Füssen

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Fantastic view of the Forggensee

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Great view from the top.

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Nice bike paths around the outside. But there is also a lot going on ...

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Super developed bike paths, view of the Alps super nice 🤩

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Going around Forggensee by bike is great.

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Tips from the Community

Oliver Rei
August 28, 2025, Lechstaustufe 1 – Forggensee Dam and Power Plant

It's well worth seeing: on one side, the dammed lake, on the other, the land below. A must-see.

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Good swimming spot for relaxing and cooling off.

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Great lake cool area

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Nice place to relax and swim. Great view of the mountains.

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There are concerts at the Festspielhaus on Sundays in summer

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The Forggensee near Füssen in the Allgäu is a reservoir and forms the second dam in the course of the Lech, which has been greatly expanded since the end of the 19th century to generate electricity (see list). The dam near Roßhaupten in 1954 turned the former Füssen Lake into the Roßhaupten reservoir, which is the largest dam in Germany in terms of surface area. With an area of 15.2 km², it is the fifth largest lake in Bavaria, but its origins are not directly comparable to the other Alpine lakes that were formed from glacial lakes. To protect against flooding on the Lech, the water level of the Forggensee is significantly lowered in winter.

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Large reservoirs in the Allgäu, when the water has drained away in winter, you can still see a number of foundation walls of old houses at the bottom of the lake

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The white boat trip on Lake Forggensee. You don't have to cycle - you can combine a bike and boat tour.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Forggensee unique among Bavarian lakes?

Forggensee is unique as Bavaria's fifth largest lake and Germany's largest reservoir by area, created in 1954 by damming the River Lech. It has a distinctive annual cycle, reaching its full level from June to mid-October. Its light sandy subsoil from the limestone Alps gives its waters a beautiful color palette from intense blue to light turquoise. It also plays a crucial role in flood prevention and electricity generation.

What are the best times to visit Forggensee for water activities?

The best time to visit Forggensee for water activities is from June to mid-October. During this period, the lake reaches its full reservoir level, making it ideal for surfing, sailing, fishing, boating, and swimming. In winter, the water level is significantly lowered for flood control, revealing parts of the lakebed.

Are there family-friendly activities around the lakes in the Forggensee region?

Yes, the region offers many family-friendly activities. Forggensee itself has developed bike paths and recreation areas like the Forggensee Lakeside Recreation Area, perfect for relaxing and swimming with mountain views. The Alpsee, near the castles, also has an idyllic bathing area accessible after a short walk, and offers boat rentals. Many easy hiking and cycling routes are suitable for families.

What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes?

The Forggensee region is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy aquatic sports like surfing, sailing, and kayaking on Forggensee and Hopfensee. For land-based activities, there are numerous cycling and hiking paths. Komoot offers guides for gravel biking, running, and easy hikes around Forggensee.

Which lakes offer the best views of the Bavarian Alps and castles?

Forggensee offers awe-inspiring reflections of the Bavarian Alps, with viewpoints like View of Forggensee near Füssen providing fantastic mountain backdrops. The Alpsee is particularly renowned for its stunning views of the iconic Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau castles, as it sits directly at their foot.

Can I go swimming in the lakes around Forggensee?

Yes, several lakes in the region are great for swimming. Forggensee has numerous bathing spots, including the Forggensee Lakeside Recreation Area. Hopfensee is known for its clear water and swimming opportunities. Alpsee also features an idyllic bathing area, and Weißensee provides another option for swimming and relaxation.

Are there any historical or man-made landmarks related to the lakes?

Yes, the Lech Weir 1 – Forggensee Dam and Power Plant is a significant man-made monument. This dam is crucial for flood control during snowmelt and serves as a reservoir for hydroelectric power plants. During winter, when the water level is lowered, you can even see the remains of the Roman military road Via Claudia Augusta in the empty lakebed.

What are some quieter, more tranquil lakes to visit in the area?

For a more serene experience, consider visiting Schwansee, located near Alpsee. It's part of a landscape conservation area and offers a tranquil setting. The Faulenbach Lakes are also a collection of smaller lakes in the area, providing more intimate natural settings away from the larger crowds.

What do visitors enjoy most about the Forggensee region?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning views of the Alps reflected in the lakes, the well-developed bike paths, and the opportunities for relaxation and swimming. The combination of natural beauty, recreational activities, and proximity to cultural highlights like Neuschwanstein Castle makes it a highly appreciated destination.

Are there opportunities for cycling around the lakes?

Absolutely. The Forggensee region is very popular for cycling. There are super developed bike paths around Forggensee, offering beautiful views of the Alps. Komoot provides a dedicated guide for gravel biking around Forggensee, suitable for various skill levels.

Which lake is known for winter activities like ice skating?

Schwansee is known for winter activities. Due to the shading from surrounding mountains, it freezes faster in winter, making it a popular spot for ice skaters seeking a tranquil outdoor experience.

Where can I find a good viewpoint of Forggensee near Füssen?

A highly recommended spot is the View of Forggensee near Füssen. This viewpoint offers a fantastic perspective of the lake with a beautiful mountain backdrop, making it a popular highlight among visitors.

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Still not found your perfect lake around Forggensee? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.

HalblechSchwangauFüssenHohenschwangauPfrontenHopferauHopfen am SeeRieden am ForggenseeRoßhauptenEisenbergSeegNesselwangStötten am AuerbergLechbruck am SeeLechbruck am SeeRückholzLengenwangMarktoberdorfGörisriedBuchloeLamerdingenSchwarzenbergUnterthingauWeißenseeWaalAlpseeHopfenseeMauerstettenRettenbach am AuerbergGermaringenIrseeEggenthalPforzenStöttwangBaisweilKaltentalRuderatshofenOberostendorfJengenAitrangFriesenriedKraftisriedBiessenhofenBidingenObergünzburgGünzachOsterzellUntrasriedBachtelseeSchwansee

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