Sumptuous flowers in Bernried am Starnberger See

A true hidden gem on the shores of Lake Starnberg: Bernried received a Gold Medal in Germany's nationwide "Our Village Has a Future" competition in 2007. Since then, it seems to have become even more beautiful year after year: lush green meadows, peaceful lakeside paths, and lovingly restored Bavarian farmhouses. The colorful front gardens are so meticulously cared for that they are sure to make every gardening enthusiast just a little envious.

Between Blossoms, the Lake and Ancient Trees

Bernried isn't a place you simply pass through. It's the kind of village that naturally slows your pace. Behind the neatly kept front gardens, glimpses of Lake Starnberg appear again and again. Depending on the season, flowers bloom from window boxes, garden beds and decorative pots, and by the time you reach the lakeshore, your day trip already feels like a relaxing getaway.

One of the most beautiful walks leads from the village center towards the monastery and on to the lake. Around the monastery grounds, Bernried reveals its quiet, historic side. Since 1949, Benedictine Missionary Sisters have lived in the former Augustinian monastery, whose history dates back to the year 1120. Between the church, the monastery courtyard and the lakeshore, you'll discover exactly what makes Bernried so special: part picture-book village, part cultural heritage, and entirely Upper Bavarian serenity.

Bernried Park: A Natural Stage on Lake Starnberg

If you'd like to immerse yourself even further in nature, continue your walk into Bernried Park. This landscaped park covers around 80 hectares directly on the southwestern shore of Lake Starnberg and was designed in the style of an English landscape garden. Towering oak and beech trees, winding paths, peaceful meadows, and ever-changing views across the lake towards the Alps make it one of the most beautiful places for a walk in the region.

With around 7.5 kilometers of walking trails, you can choose a route that perfectly matches your schedule. One particularly pleasant feature is the number of benches placed at scenic viewpoints along the paths. Take a moment to sit down, admire the lake, and let the mountain panorama on the horizon work its magic. After all, the park was originally donated to the public as a place for rest and relaxation.

Here's a small tip for warm summer days: the park features several so-called Seefenster ("lake windows")—small bathing spots providing direct access to Lake Starnberg. Please pay attention to the signs on site: swimming is only permitted at the designated Seefenster north of the Tea House, while the surrounding meadows remain protected to preserve this beautiful landscape for future visitors.

An Artistic Break at the Buchheim Museum

If you'd like to combine nature with culture, make time for the Buchheim Museum. Located directly on Lake Starnberg, the "Museum of Imagination" brings together art, architecture and nature in a truly unique setting. Inside, you'll discover Expressionist masterpieces, arts and crafts from around the world, and works by Lothar-Günther Buchheim. Outside, mature trees, ponds, sculptures and artworks accompany your stroll through the museum grounds.

The building itself is worth seeing. Its elongated structure ends in a striking viewing platform extending towards the lake, offering magnificent views across Lake Starnberg and, on clear days, all the way to the Alps. Before your visit, it's worth checking the museum's website for current exhibitions and visitor information, allowing you to perfectly combine your walk through Bernried with an inspiring cultural stop.

Summer by the Lake: Hubl Lido

During the summer months, Bernried becomes even more appealing as a day-trip destination thanks to Hubl Lido, located behind the monastery. This public bathing area has long been part of the village and has retained much of its nostalgic charm, including its traditional changing cabins. A spacious lawn, a small kiosk, showers and changing facilities make it an ideal stop for anyone wanting to cool off after a walk.

If you'd like to experience the lake from the water, you can rent rowing boats or pedal boats during the season. On warm days, it's the perfect way to round off your visit: first stroll through Bernried's flower-filled streets, then unwind in the park, and finally dip your feet—or yourself—into the crystal-clear waters of Lake Starnberg.

Your Day Trip to Bernried

You don't need much planning for a relaxing day in Bernried. Start with a leisurely stroll through the village and admire the colorful front gardens. Continue past the monastery towards the lakeshore before exploring Bernried Park. If you're interested in art, include the Buchheim Museum in your itinerary. And if the sun is shining, finish your day by the lake—either at Hubl Lido or at one of the designated Seefenster within the park.

That's exactly what Bernried does best: offering a peaceful, flower-filled escape on the shores of Lake Starnberg, where nature, culture and beautiful lake views come together effortlessly.