In the south of Munich, close to the Isar River and Hellabrunn Zoo, lies a place that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the big city: the Hinterbrühler See. Together with its adjoining green spaces, it forms part of the Isarauen nature reserve, offering numerous reasons for a visit.
What Makes Hinterbrühler See a Special Destination?
While it’s not suitable for swimming, the lake offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation. The old trees around the shore provide ample shade, and a small stream at the northern end is popular with children for playing. Swans, ducks, and geese are regular visitors, adding to the natural charm.
Getting There: Your Guide to Hinterbrühler See
The lake is easily accessible by public transport:
- U-Bahn (Subway): Take the U3 line to ‘Thalkirchen’ station.
- Bus: From Thalkirchen, take bus 135 towards Solln and alight at the ‘Hinterbrühl’ stop.
For those driving, it’s best to navigate to ‘Campingplatz Thalkirchen,’ where paid parking is available. From there, it’s just a few minutes’ walk to the lake.
Cyclists can follow the Isar Canal to ‘Golfplatz Thalkirchen’ and continue past the ‘Floßlände’.
Activities and Amenities: What to Do at Hinterbrühler See
A full circuit around the lake takes approximately 20 minutes, making it ideal for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or a bike ride. It’s a popular recreational spot for Munich residents from the southern districts, perfect for picnics and enjoying nature.
Visitors on platforms like komoot highly recommend the destination: “Beautiful place! Definitely recommended if you happen to be nearby,” reads one comment. Another user notes, “It’s nice here, perfect for a break.”
Historical Significance: Traces of the Past
At the northern end of the lake, you’ll find the ‘Schleusenwärterhaus Hinterbrühl’ (lock keeper’s house), and to the south, the statue ‘Der Isarflößer’ (the Isar raftsman) – a nod to the area’s rich history. The nearby ‘Floßlände’ (raft landing) is where rafts from Wolfratshausen arrive on the Isar between April and September.
The accompanying ‘Floßkanal’ (raft canal) was constructed in the late 19th century as an access route to the central landing, serving the rafting industry. Today, the wave at the ‘Floßlände’ is also utilized by surfers during the summer months. Both the ‘Floßkanal’ and ‘Floßlände’ are part of Munich’s official canoe route, where clubs train for competitions.
Dining and Further Exploration: Extend Your Visit
After a walk, you can take a break at the ‘Gasthof Hinterbrühl’ on the western side of the lake, which features a beer garden and a large playground. The nearby ‘Naturbad Maria Einsiedel’ (natural swimming pool) is also easily accessible and a popular destination for families with children during the summer.
For cyclists, Hinterbrühler See makes an excellent stop along the Isar Canal route.
Important Information at a Glance
- Location: Southern Munich, near Isar and Hellabrunn Zoo.
- Accessibility: U3 to Thalkirchen, then Bus 135 to Hinterbrühl. Paid parking at Campingplatz Thalkirchen.
- Activities: Walking, jogging, cycling, picnicking. Not suitable for swimming.
- Historical Sites: Schleusenwärterhaus Hinterbrühl, statue “Der Isarflößer,” Floßlände.
- Dining: Gasthof Hinterbrühl (beer garden, playground).
- Nearby Attractions: Naturbad Maria Einsiedel.
Enjoy your visit to this hidden gem in Munich!
Source: https://www.tz.de/muenchen/stadt/thalkirchen-obersendling-forstenried-fuerstenried-solln-ort43351/bekannt-dieser-see-in-muenchen-ist-eine-echte-oase-und-kaum-94434630.html