Highlight • Lake
Auwald Lake
Hiking
4.7
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5.0
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Mountain biking
4.5
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Auwaldsee is a popular recreational lake situated at an elevation of approximately 420 meters in Upper Bavaria, Germany. Located just southeast of Ingolstadt and near the town of Großmehring, this picturesque body of water was originally formed from gravel extraction for autobahn construction in the 1930s. Today, it stands as one of Ingolstadt's most cherished natural areas, offering a blend of serene landscapes and diverse amenities.
Visitors consistently praise Auwaldsee for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Many find it an ideal spot to linger, cool off, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The presence of a well-regarded restaurant with a spacious beer garden further enhances the experience, making it a perfect destination for both short walks and extended stays.
Before heading out, it's good to know that Auwaldsee is easily accessible from Ingolstadt city center. While the circular path around the lake is generally flat and suitable for all ages, the area can become quite busy, especially on sunny weekends and public holidays. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during weekdays or early mornings. Parking is available, and the lake is also reachable via public transport, making it a convenient escape.
The best time to visit Auwaldsee depends on your preferred activities. During the warmer months, it's a prime location for swimming, sunbathing on the sandy beach, boating, and fishing, with excellent water quality. The surrounding trails are perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling. In winter, when conditions allow, the frozen lake transforms into a popular spot for ice skating and curling, offering unique seasonal considerations for outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond the main recreational activities, Auwaldsee offers several unique experiences. Hikers and nature lovers can explore the forest nature trail on the south side, learning about local forestry, or observe diverse wildlife, including ducks, swans, and even beavers, around the lake's conservation islands. The distinctive Auwaldseekapelle, with its tent-like roof, provides a quiet landmark, while the sandy beach with a designated children's area is a hit with families.
Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a longer cycling adventure, Auwaldsee provides a variety of options. You can discover numerous routes for walking, cycling, and trail running around the lake and its surroundings. Use komoot to explore popular trails and plan your visit, ensuring you make the most of this beautiful natural gem in Upper Bavaria.
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April 24, 2023
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December 27, 2019
Hiking
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Details
Informations
Elevation 420 m
Weather
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Tuesday 12 May
14°C
2°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 21.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is there ample parking at Auwaldsee, and does it get crowded?
Yes, parking is available at Auwaldsee. However, it can become quite crowded, especially on sunny weekends and public holidays. For a more relaxed experience and to secure a spot, it's advisable to arrive early in the morning.
How can I reach Auwaldsee using public transport?
Auwaldsee is conveniently accessible via public transport from Ingolstadt city center. Specific bus routes serve the area, making it an easy destination to reach without a car.
Are dogs allowed at Auwaldsee, and are there specific rules?
While Auwaldsee is a popular recreational area, specific rules regarding dogs, especially in swimming and sunbathing areas, may apply. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash and to check local signage for any restricted zones to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
What activities are available for families with children at Auwaldsee?
Auwaldsee is very family-friendly! It features a sandy beach with a section specifically cordoned off for children, offering shallow water for safe play. There are also sunbathing lawns, a mini-golf course, and a circular path suitable for strollers, making it ideal for a day out with kids.
What is the typical terrain and difficulty of the circular path around Auwaldsee?
The circular path around Auwaldsee is generally flat and well-maintained, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. It's considered an easy walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll, jogging, or cycling.
How long does it typically take to walk around Auwaldsee?
A leisurely walk around the entire Auwaldsee typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your pace. The path is approximately one kilometer in length.
Are there any viewpoints or notable natural features around Auwaldsee?
Yes, Auwaldsee offers several picturesque spots. The lake itself is a beautiful natural feature, and there are two islands dedicated to nature conservation, providing habitats for diverse wildlife. The forest nature trail on the south side also offers insights into local forestry.
What kind of amenities are available directly at Auwaldsee?
Auwaldsee boasts excellent amenities, including a restaurant with a large beer garden, a discotheque, a mini-golf course, and an enclosed campground. There are also boat rentals and designated swimming areas.
Can I go wild swimming in Auwaldsee?
Auwaldsee is a designated bathing lake with excellent water quality according to Bavarian regulations. While there are specific swimming areas, it is a popular spot for swimming and cooling off, making it suitable for a refreshing dip.
What are the winter activities available at Auwaldsee?
In winter, when conditions allow and the lake freezes sufficiently, Auwaldsee transforms into a popular spot for ice skating and curling, offering unique seasonal recreational opportunities.
Are there any cafes or additional dining options near Auwaldsee besides the main restaurant?
While the main restaurant with its large beer garden at Auwaldsee is a popular choice, the lake's proximity to Ingolstadt means there are numerous other cafes and dining options available a short drive away in the city center.
What kind of wildlife can be observed at Auwaldsee?
Auwaldsee and its surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Visitors can often spot ducks, swans, coots, grey herons, and great crested grebes. Beavers have also become residents of the lake, particularly around the conservation islands.