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Tag: Lakes

  • Eibsee: Why This Bavarian Lake is Called the German Caribbean (Repost and Solo Travel Diary Part I)

    Eibsee: Why This Bavarian Lake is Called the German Caribbean (Repost and Solo Travel Diary Part I)

    Background

    I have talked about the German Caribbean before. It was long before I had decided what this blog was going to be about. Back then I was still trying to find my voice — trying to figure it out. Eventually, I decided that this blog would be about authenticity: the Good, the Bad, the Ugly. About my personal journey to joy.

    So I find it most fitting to repost this story. Not like the typical 1–10 list primarily consisting of recommendations about food or sleeping accommodations. More about the why, the how, and the feeling. I find that most fulfilling.

    So, here is the repost.

    In 2021, I was kind of tired of waiting. I was constantly waiting around for something to happen — waiting for people to join me in travels, for nights out in the city. Just waiting for life.

    So, after my dear friend told me about Eibsee, I was speechless. The pictures were amazing, and since my sister had already visited and loved it, I decided to go as well.

    The Journey

    I had booked the Garni Hotel zum Franziskaner. If you want to know more. It is a cozy B&B in Grainau, which is pretty close to the lake.

    To get to Grainau from where I lived, I took a high-speed train from Heidelberg main station directly toward Munich, getting off a couple of stations before the main station. Like always, I missed my intended connecting train, so I stayed on the platform waiting for the next one — at least 30–45 minutes. As mentioned, it was unfortunately quite cold. I was trying to keep myself warm, and while I was in the middle of losing weight at that point, I still gave myself the comfort of Burger King. I walked over to the nearest one and got a meal — don’t remember what exactly, just that it was worth it.

    Fortunately, the train eventually arrived. We rode past the Starnberger See. Bavaria has a lot of beautiful lakes, by the way — definitely worth checking out.

    I was in awe: the mountains, the lake, the idyllic ambiance. I was floating on a cloud, full of excitement for what was to come.

    We finally made it! I reached Garmisch-Partenkirchen — a quaint little city that actually felt more like a village. I walked over to the cab stand and talked to the first driver. He asked me in his very Bavarian dialect where I wanted to go. I seemed to have lost all ability to speak German, because I kept nodding along even though he was asking whether my hotel was in Garmisch — apparently the name the locals use for the city.

    I corrected him eventually, and he said in a no-nonsense way that I should have spoken up immediately.

    Well, too bad, so sad. We still made it. He gave me his card, and then I checked in.

    First things first… radiator up, Burger King devoured. Happy to be there! More to come in Part II.

  • Lake Thun – The Most Underrated Lake in Europe

    Lake Thun – The Most Underrated Lake in Europe

    Premise

    Switzerland is known for its serene landscapes, variety of mountain lakes and steep prices. Let’s get on this journey, together.

    So when I was invited by my older sister to visit Switzerland in late Summer of 2021, I was excited. Back then my older sister was living in a small village, close to the city of Spiez, which in turn is located in the canton of Bern.

    The Journey

    I embarked on my journey to Switzerland started early at about 8 o’clock and the plan was to embark on this 5-hour journey. But guess what, there is no such thing as punctual, with the German Railway. I got to the train station on time, however my train from Heidelberg to Mannheim, very much did not. When it finally arrived, we were about 10 minutes behind schedule. Exactly, 10 minutes that were planned in for me switching trains. I made it just in time to the platform to see my high-speed train wave me goodbye. Thank God, I was a bit fitter back then because I actually bothered to run. By the way, don’t you hate missing trains and seeing leave the train station? Awful.

    After that I had to look for alternative connections. Best one. Going from there with a regional train to Strasbourg and from Strasbourg to Basel and then change train to Spiez. Perfect. That journey, obviously, was much longer than the original one I booked.

    So, I used the little donkey train to France and in Strasbourg was directed to the platform. And then I waited, and waited and waited and waited for half an hour. Nice, right?

    The train arrived – and the fighting began – I had to fight to find a seat. I won the Olympian seat games and finally made my way to Switzerland. It only took about 6 hours. And I still wasn’t at my destination.

    Basel

    Basel main station is… BEAUTIFUL. Gone was the urine-filled air that is so common for Germany. Gone was the dirty station. What was there cleanliness I never saw in at any German station. Anyway, I made my way to a shop and bought a sandwich and a drink. Guess what I had never seen as well? These prices, I paid 10€ for. a. damn. sandwich. Done, dusted. Hah.

    What also was lovely was that I missed my train because it took me so damn long to get back. Missed the train. What’s great about Switzerland though, they are so organized (at least when it comes to trains). Found a train and made my way to Spiez to Basel. And after about an hour, as we made our way from there passing by Lake Thun. And it was majestic.

    We didn’t stop there and I arrived in Spiez not long after. One thing that was safe to say was… I’d definitely go there. See the featured image as a sneak peek.

    If you enjoyed being lost with me in trains, sandwiches, and lakes, I write about these little adventures often — quiet discoveries, self-dates, and the magic of ordinary moments. You can stay along for the next one.

  • The Eibsee – Germany’s “Caribbean” Lake

    The Eibsee – Germany’s “Caribbean” Lake

    Nestled in Bavaria, near the charming town of Grainau (just 10 km from Garmisch-Partenkirchen), Eibsee is a well-known gem among Germans. Surrounded by the stunning Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, this lake offers breathtaking scenery and a serene escape into nature.

    How to Get There

    Funny you should ask! Here’s how you can reach this picturesque destination:

    By Train

    • Take a train to Munich Central Station.
    • From there, hop on a regional train to Garmisch-Partenkirchen.
    • Once you arrive, you have a few options:
      • Take the rack railway (located at the western exit of the station) for a scenic 30-minute ride straight to Eibsee.
      • Alternatively, take a bus or taxi to Grainau if you’re staying there.

    By Car

    • Drive directly to the Eibsee parking lot or the Zugspitze cable car station parking area.

    By Taxi

    If you have booked accommodation in Grainau, taking a taxi directly there is a convenient option. The drive will only take you about 15-20 minutes.

    What to Do at Eibsee

    Once you arrive, take a breathtaking stroll along the lake’s scenic shore. The crystal-clear turquoise water, paired with the dramatic mountain backdrop, makes it a paradise for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers.

    And to make this extra memorable:

    Where to Eat & Stay

    Where to Eat:
    After a refreshing walk around the lake, treat yourself to some delicious lasagna at Trattoria L’Italiano, a cozy little Italian restaurant in Grainau.

    Where to Stay:
    For a comfortable and charming stay, we recommend Hotel zum Franziskaner Garni, a lovely family-run hotel offering beautiful mountain views (depending on the room you get, of course!).

    Final Thoughts

    If you’re looking for a magical getaway to one of Germany’s most beautiful lakes, Eibsee is the place to be. Whether you hike, relax, or simply take in the breathtaking views—this is a must-visit destination for any traveler!

    A little peak what view you’ll get!