Altmühlsee: Leisure fun in the Franconian Lake District

Whether you want to relax, take a boat trip, or go bird watching, Altmühlsee offers the perfect mix of nature, water, and activities for a perfect day trip. The lakeside path stretches around twelve kilometers around the lake, ideal for walking, cycling, or inline skating. There are also well-maintained bathing bays with shallow entrances, lake centers with restaurants, a bird sanctuary with viewing platforms, and a passenger boat that will take you comfortably across the lake.

A leisure paradise for active people, families, and those seeking peace and quiet

The artificially created Altmühlsee is nestled in the Franconian Lake District and is a real all-rounder:

You can try stand-up paddling, go out on a pedal boat, watch birds on the bird island, or simply enjoy an ice cream with a view of the water. Families appreciate the shallow beaches, adventure playgrounds, and water sports facilities. Nature lovers will find peace and quiet and observation points on the north shore, for example in the nature reserve around Vogelinsel. For connoisseurs, there are beer gardens, cafés, and even culinary theme cruises aboard the MS Altmühlsee.

By train to the water: arrival via Gunzenhausen

The most convenient way to reach Altmühlsee is by train via Gunzenhausen station. From there, it is about a 30-minute walk to the nearest lake access points, for example at the Schlungenhof lake center. If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can use the Altmühlsee-Express leisure bus on weekends, which takes you directly to the most important lake centers. Bicycle rental and lidos are also located in the immediate vicinity.

VGN leisure tip: Adventure and time out at Altmühlsee

The VGN leisure tip “Adventure and time out at Altmühlsee” shows you a particularly beautiful hiking route around Altmühlsee. The tour starts at the Wald lake center. This can be reached by leisure bus line 689 from Gunzenhausen train station. If you prefer to walk instead of taking the bus, you can reach the Wald lake center in about 45 minutes. The route covers around 13.5 kilometers, connecting the Wald, Muhr am See, and Schlungenhof lake centers, always along the water. Along the way, you can observe rare migratory birds on Vogelinsel, rent boards and SUPs at the surf center, or simply relax in one of the hammocks on the lake shore.

Particularly popular with families: the adventure playground at the Wald Lake Center with a low ropes course, boules court, and sun island. Those who prefer a more leisurely pace can board the MS Altmühlsee at one of the jetties and enjoy a relaxing cruise across the water.

Another highlight is the summer event “See in Flammen” (Lake in Flames), which traditionally takes place on the first Saturday in August: with torch-lit swimmers, illuminated boats, live music, and spectacular fireworks over the lake.