In the heart of the Bavarian Five Lakes District is the wealthy town of Starnberg. On the banks of the great Lake Starnberg — where Ludwig II lived and died — this pretty location will leave you speechless.
Not only will you find luxury villas and extensive gardens here, there is also a large marina filled with private yachts and small passenger ships. Being on the lake offers a range of activities that involve leaving dry land behind.
This popular destination has opportunities to sail, windsurf, cruise, water-ski and even swim. The waters are so clean and clear that it makes for a fantastic location to try a new skill or to show off an existing one.
Want some fresh air, but not brave enough for the waves? Perhaps the 46-mile cycle route around the great lake is more to your liking. Allow plenty of time for this adventure. The views will certainly be worth the effort!
Maybe shopping is more your thing. You won’t go short of chances in Starnberg to filter through local stores looking for souvenirs to remember your stay. There are many trade stores, too, as the regional speciality is beautifully painted furniture of all styles.
Another regional favorite is the Lüftlmalerei, where buildings are painted with life-size decorations to look real. This tromp l’oeil style allows for ordinary houses to have ornate gabling and porch-ways, huge sprawling plants and delightful wildlife, permanently and artistically etched on them.
Other architectural delights include the castle, linking back to its royal heritage. Although you cannot currently tour the castle, you can walk in the extensive and formal gardens through the year.
The views in winter from the lake show its true majesty! There are six other castles around the lake and many delightful churches, too.
Starnberg is only a short drive southwest of Munich, but really offers visitors more of the countryside and scenic vistas. Local dress is also very common in this region, and not just for shows and festivals. It is not unusual for men to go to work in their Trachten, the short trousers with decorated braces that we all know.
