Best attractions and places to see around Rannasee include a prominent artificial freshwater lake nestled in the southern Bavarian Forest near the German-Austrian border. Created in 1983, it is the largest bathing lake in the Bavarian Forest, spanning 20 hectares. The area offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for visitors, centered around its natural and recreational features.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Rest Area
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Nice little playground at Lake Ranna
0
0
a wooden sculpture on the peninsula at Lake Ranna
0
0
From the peninsula at Lake Ranna, there is a beautiful view over the entire lake.
0
0
Rannasee Dam Austria Germany
0
0
a beautiful reservoir on the border between Germany and Austria
0
0
Great in summer for swimming/lazing around and taking a break
0
0
everything is still closed at the moment
0
0
the view to Austria to the dam
0
0
Rannasee is the largest bathing lake in the Bavarian Forest, offering excellent water quality. You can enjoy swimming, paddle boating, stand-up paddleboarding, and even surfing. A major highlight is the 120-meter waterslide, which provides an exciting ride into a separate basin near the lake. You can also find a Rannasee Boat Rental for pedal boating.
Yes, Rannasee is very well-suited for families. The area features an adventure playground, a children's paddling pool, and free play areas. A dedicated Playground by the Lake is a popular spot for children, offering great fun for the little ones.
The central natural feature is Rannasee itself, an artificial lake with picturesque views. Beyond the lake, the biodiverse Ranna Valley is known for its rich ecosystem and lush greenery. Another natural wonder is Bärnloch, where the Osterbach stream carves through a narrow valley with numerous cascades. There's also a vibrant raised bog, Hochmoor in Schönwies, showcasing untouched nature.
An extensive network of trails surrounds Rannasee, catering to various skill levels from easy strolls to more challenging day hikes. Popular routes include loops around the lake and trails through dense forests and the Ranna Valley. Many paths feature Kneipp basins and fitness parcours. For specific routes, you can explore options like those found in the Cycling around Rannasee guide, which also includes walking paths.
Absolutely! The Rannasee area offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for gravel biking, road cycling, and general touring. For example, the Gravel biking around Rannasee guide and the Road Cycling Routes around Rannasee guide provide detailed tours for different preferences.
The Rannasee Dam and the Germany–Austria border is a significant man-made monument. It was created by damming the Ranna River in 1983, forming the Rannasee. A portion of the lake extends into Austrian territory, making the dam a unique point of interest that marks the boundary between the two countries.
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful views over the lake and the diverse recreational offers. Many appreciate Rannasee as a popular destination in the southern Bavarian Forest, highlighting the fantastically beautiful and largely untouched Ranna Valley. The family-friendly facilities, such as the adventure playground, are also highly regarded.
Yes, Rannasee is a popular spot for fishing. The lake is home to various local fish species, including carp, pike, and trout. Day permits can typically be obtained locally for those interested in fishing.
Yes, there are options for refreshments and dining. A kiosk known as "OaSee" provides snacks and drinks. Additionally, a guesthouse with a restaurant is available in the central building, offering more substantial meal options for visitors.
Rannasee is primarily a recreational lake, making the warmer months from late spring to early autumn ideal for water activities like swimming and paddle boating, as well as hiking and cycling. The lush greenery of the Ranna Valley is particularly vibrant during this period. While winter activities are limited, the landscape can offer a different kind of beauty.
Yes, there are several spots offering great views. The northeast shore of Rannasee itself provides picturesque vistas. The Rannasee Dam also offers a unique perspective, looking out over the lake and towards the Germany-Austria border. The surrounding hiking trails often lead to elevated points with scenic overlooks of the lake and the Ranna Valley.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: