The Hintersee is beautifully situated in the heart of the Ramsau mountains, nestled between Hochkalter and the Reiter Alpe.

Its formation is attributed to a massive landslide that occurred thousands of years ago, when millions of tons of rock fell from the Schärtenspitze and Steinberg into the valley, creating the stunning landscape around the lake as the Klausbach stream filled the area.

Often painted by renowned artists, Hintersee is a picturesque gem that rivals the more famous Königssee. It has served as a scenic backdrop for numerous local films and cinema productions. Unlike Königssee, which has limited shore access, the Hintersee can be fully circumnavigated in under an hour. Visitors can rent rowing or pedal boats, and swimming is possible for those who can tolerate the chilly waters, which rarely exceed 16 degrees Celsius even in midsummer. However, activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking are not permitted.

Enchanted Forest

The enchanting forest on the eastern shore of the Hintersee is a must-visit. A stroll around the lake leads to a magical landscape filled with cascading waterfalls from the Ramsauer Ache, winding around fallen trees and boulders, creating a fascinating and romantic setting.

Large boulders that have tumbled into the valley are now nestled among the trees, with some trees growing on the stones. The path meanders through narrow rocky passages, offering an adventurous experience for visitors of all ages. This exploration should be included in any trip to Hintersee.

An insider tip is the short hike to Wartstein, which can be easily combined with a circuit of the Hintersee. Despite a modest elevation gain of about 100 meters, the hike rewards visitors with stunning views of the lake and surrounding Ramsau mountains. A marked path from the northern end of Hintersee leads to the Wartstein summit in approximately 20 minutes.

From the summit, the glistening Hintersee and the Reiter Alpe create a breathtaking panorama of the Berchtesgaden and Ramsau Alps. It’s surprising that few of the many visitors to the lake venture to this hidden gem, making it all the more special.

Near the summit, there is a natural rock grotto featuring a small altar and a statue of Saint Magdalene, known as the Magdalen Grotto.

Wildlife Feeding

In winter, another highlight near Hintersee is the opportunity to feed wild animals. To reach the feeding area, follow the road to the parking lot at the Klausbachhaus National Park information point. After passing the entrance barrier to the national park, visitors must continue on foot for about 2 kilometers along a road closed to public transport until reaching a large enclosure.

As winter progresses, food becomes scarce in the forests, attracting deer to the feeding sites in the valley. Between 1 PM and 2 PM, it's common to see many deer, including majestic stags, gathering for their daily meal.

Hintersee