Between Füssen and Pfronten stretches the long Zirmgrat, which offers magnificent views over the Austrian Vilstal to the north side of the wild Tannheimer mountains.
In a hollow framed by dark forests lies the mysterious Alatsee.
Hike to the ruin Falkenstein at a glance
| 3 Difficulty3,5 hours Walking time10 km Länge↑↓ 550 Hm Altitude difference |
Lakes and mountains between feet and fronts
Between Füssen and Pfronte stretches the long Zirmgrat, which offers magnificent views over the Austrian Vilstal to the north side of the wild Tannheimer mountains. At its western end, the ridge with the Falkenstein ruin bears the remains of what was once Germany’s highest castle. At the northern foot of the Zirmgrat lies the friendly Weißensee lake, which in summer is one of the most popular bathing spots in the Füssen hinterland. And at the top of the ridge, the Alatsee is hidden in a hollow surrounded by steep forest slopes. The picturesque mountain lake, where you can swim without hesitation, holds some secrets. Its sulphurous deep water, coloured red by algae, is poisonous. Diving in the lake is therefore life-threatening and strictly forbidden. During the Second World War, the lake was a military restricted area in which probably secret weapons were tested. Even in the post-war period, access to the lake was closed for a long time. The treasures suspected of being on its hostile ground have remained untraceable to this day.
