Sylvenstein Reservoir

The Sylvenstein Reservoir (Sylvensteinspeicher) near Lenggries is a turquoise mountain lake in the Isarwinkel region of Upper Bavaria, framed by the Karwendel range. It lies about 75 kilometers south of Munich on the road between Bad Tölz and the Austrian Achensee. It makes a great day trip if you want clear alpine water, photogenic views from the long Sylvenstein bridge and a quiet stretch of shoreline. There is little tourist infrastructure, which is part of its charm.

A reservoir with a purpose

The reservoir was built between 1954 and 1959. Its main goal was to keep the water level of the Isar river more even, which the town of Bad Tölz needed in dry periods. Flood protection proved its worth in the floods of 1999 and 2005. The water surface covers 3.92 square kilometers, the dam is 44 meters high and 180 meters long, and the maximum storage volume is 124.3 million cubic meters. Two power stations at the dam produce a combined 6.4 megawatts. The village of Fall was demolished before the valley was flooded and rebuilt on higher ground.

Swimming and views

There is no beach resort, but swimming is possible in several spots. The only official swimming spot is near the village of Fall, with a small car park, a meadow and a wide grass and gravel beach where the water deepens quickly and two swimming platforms sit offshore. Lifeguards are present there in the summer. The area under the big Sylvenstein bridge is also popular. Other spots along the north shore are unofficial but tolerated. You can park during the day, but camping overnight is not allowed. The water is cold, so keep swims short.

The Sylvenstein bridge

The long bridge across the reservoir is the best-known viewpoint. From here you see the lake, forested slopes and, on clear days, snowy peaks. Early morning and late afternoon give the best light, especially in autumn.

How to get there

From Munich, take the A95 highway to Holzkirchen, then the B13 and B307 toward Lenggries and on to the lake. The center of Lenggries is about 12 kilometers from the dam. You can park along the road near the bridge, and a narrow road just before Fall leads to the car park at the swimming spot. We could not confirm parking fees. A German city guide says public transport to the lake is not possible, so check current bus schedules.

Practical tips

• Bring swim gear, a towel and water, because there is almost no infrastructure.
• We found no reliable rules on dogs or boating, so ask the tourist office before you go.
• Combine the lake with a Karwendel hike or a drive to Lake Achensee.
• Arrive early on summer weekends.