Das Wichtigste in Kürze
Where in Germany is Kochel?
Kochel is located roughly 40km south of Munich in the Bavarian Alps.
Is Kochel worth a visit?
If you like historic towns in the mountains, Alpine lakes, and hiking, Kochel is absolutely worth a visit. There are a number of hotels in the area that’ll make your stay enjoyable. Find out more here.
What are the must-dos when in Kochel?
Some of the most attractive sights in Kochel include the Kochel Lake, the Benediktbeuren Abbey, and the surrounding Alps with their hiking and biking trails. If you’re wondering what to do, you can find out more here.
Kochel am See is a town in the Bavarian Alps in Germany. It is located approximately 40 kilometers south of Munich and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. With its proximity to Munich, you should not miss visiting it.
History of Kochel
Kochel am See has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The town first appears in recorded history in the 8th century as “Cochalon”. The town traces its name back to the Old High German word “cochila”, which means “mountain top”. The name refers to the Bavarian Alps, which provide the background scenery for the town.
Throughout its history, Kochel am See has been a center of trade and commerce, due in part to its location at the intersection of several important trade routes. The town was also an important center of agriculture and forestry, with a number of sawmills and grain mills located in the area.
In the 19th century, Kochel am See became a popular destination for tourists, thanks in part to the beauty of the Bavarian Alps and the clear waters of the Kochelsee. The town’s popularity as a tourist destination has continued to grow in the 20th and 21st centuries, with a number of hotels, guesthouses, and holiday apartments catering to visitors.
Attention: As always, it’s wise to keep an eye on bookings for some time in advance. If you’re crafty and are fine visiting in the off-season, you may end up snagging a real bargain!
Attractions
Kochel am See is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Kochelsee, the Walchensee, and Benediktbeuren Abbey.
Kochelsee
The Kochelsee is known for its crystal-clear water, which is a result of the lake being fed by a number of mountain streams and springs. Kochel Lake is home to a number of rare plant and animal species, including the endangered European mudminnow.
The surrounding region is home to a number of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for climbing and other outdoor activities. The lake is also a popular destination for picnics and other outdoor gatherings.
In the winter months, the lake freezes over and becomes a popular spot for ice skating and ice fishing. The town of Kochel am See also has a number of ski resorts in the surrounding area, making it a popular destination for winter sports.
Skiing
While skiing is still very much possible, these days the snow you’ll be gliding on isn’t guaranteed to have fallen naturally. More and more regions famous for their slopes are making use of artificially generated snow.
Benediktbeuren
Benediktbeuren Abbey (also known as Benediktbeuern Abbey) is a Benedictine monastery located in the town of Benediktbeuern, near Kochel am See in the Bavarian Alps of Germany. The abbey was founded in 739 AD by the monk Saint Boniface and has a long and rich history.
The beautiful architecture is the hallmark of the abbey. It is open to the public and features a number of interesting exhibits, including a museum of the history of the monastery and a collection of medieval manuscripts.
Throughout its history, the abbey has been an important center of learning and culture. It is home to a number of important libraries and archives, including the Bavarian State Library and the German Music Archive.
In addition to its cultural and historical significance, the abbey is also an active religious community, with a number of monks living and working there. It is a popular destination for visitors interested in the history of the Benedictine order and the role of monasteries in European culture.
Tip: While you’re visiting the Abbey, make sure to also stop by the village of Benediktbeuern.
Museum
If you are interested in art, you absolutely should visit the Franz Marc Museum. The Museum hosts the works of Franz Marc, one of the most important proponents of expressionist painting. Kochel was Marc’s home, and the museum strives to set his works in the context of the landscape that in spired his paintings.
Events
Apart from the places of interest, Kochel also hosts a number of events that are not to be missed. Every year in July, the local music scene shows their skill during a festival at the former Walchensee Power Plant. Outside the festival season, the local brass band is playing regular concerts for everyone interested.
Outdoor Activities
Kochel am See is located in the Bavarian Alps, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to a number of hiking and biking trails, as well as opportunities for climbing and water sports. Some popular outdoor activities in the area include:
- Hiking: The Bavarian Alps are home to a number of beautiful hiking trails, many of which start in Kochel am See.
- Biking: The region around Kochel am See is home to a number of cycling routes, ranging from easy trails suitable for families to more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.
- Climbing: The Bavarian Alps are home to a number of climbing routes, ranging from easy to challenging. Kochel am See is a popular starting point for these routes.
- For children: If you are travelling with your children, they will be thrilled to learn that there is a snow-free sleigh ride course nearby that is accessible during summer.
Getting to Kochel
Kochel am See is located approximately 40 kilometers south of Munich and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. By car, take the A95 motorway from Munich and exit at Kochel am See. By train, take the S-Bahn line S6 from Munich to Kochel am See.
Tip: If you’re staying in Kochel, make sure to ask your hotel’s receptionist or bed & breakfast host for their personal must-sees! The locals usually know the best spots.
Explore the Alpine Lakes
Kochel am See is worth visiting for a number of reasons. Located in the Bavarian Alps in Germany, the town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It is home to a number of popular attractions, including the Kochelsee, a large lake known for its crystal-clear water and the beautiful monastery. Kochel am See is also home to a number of events throughout the year, so you’ll never be wondering what to do. Additionally, the town has a variety of accommodation options and is easily accessible from Munich.
Kochel am See – FAQ
Kochel am See is known for its natural beauty, located in the Bavarian Alps in Germany. It is also known for its popular attractions, such as the Kochelsee and Benediktbeuren Abbey.
There are many outdoor activities to enjoy in Kochel am See and the surrounding region. These include hiking, biking, climbing, swimming, boating, and fishing. In the winter months, the area is also popular for skiing and ice skating.
Yes, Kochel am See is a great destination for families. The town has a number of family-friendly attractions, including the Kochelsee, which is a popular spot for swimming and boating. The area is also home to a number of easy hiking and biking trails, as well as a number of accommodation options suitable for families.
Kochel am See is located approximately 40 kilometers south of Munich and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. By car, take the A95 motorway from Munich and exit at Kochel am See. By train, take the S-Bahn line S6 from Munich to Kochel am See.
