Chiemsee
Chiemsee is a lovely large lake (the largest in Bavaria), clear, calm waters surrounded by scenic high mountains. It's a great area to come to relax, with plenty of water activities for kids. We came here on the train for a day trip from Munich, but plan to return and spend a week or more.
Prien am Chiemsee - Prien is a charming resort town, right on the lake.
Ride the steam train - From the train station, take the little steam train, the “Chiemseebahn” for a fun 10 minute ride from the train station to the lake and the center of town. Bright green 19th century cars, puffing, tootling and whistling, the train is always filled with families. Go boating - We rented an “Elektra boot” (electric boat) and took off around the lake, exploring around the islands. Pedal boats and canoes also available for rent from the dock at the lake.Mini golf - After boating on the lake, take in a round of mini golf, located just a few blocks west of the stop for the Chiemseebahn.Prienavera water park - If the weather isn't cooperating, there's an indoor water park, Prienavera Leisure Centre, which has a large warm swimming pool with underwater jets, lap pool, children's pool with mini-slide and waterfall, and tube slide.Scenic boat ride to Herreninsel - Go for a scenic boat ride in a paddle wheeler, the Ludwig Fessler, to the big island, Herreninsel. Here, Ludwig II (famous for his Neuschwanstein) built yet another castle, Schloss Herrrenchiemsee.
Herrenchiemsee is built in the same style as Versailles, with a great staircase, hall of mirrors, ornate and gilded chambers. You can take a guided tour of the palace, but kids may prefer to explore the large gardens, fountains and Grand Canal outdoors. Also, there are paths all the way around the island. On the island is a restaurant and café.
Tip: It's a bit of a walk from the boat dock to the castle. April to October, take a horse drawn carriage ride from the pier to the palace.
