Hopfensee

The Hopfensee is an alpine lake in the district of Ostallgäu in Füssen, Germany. It lies in the foothills of the Alps and has an area of about 10 hectares. The lake is fed by mountain streams from the Heights of Romanticism, as well as from surrounding alpine forests. Since the 19th century, visitors have been drawn to the lakeshore for its unique natural beauty and breathtaking views of some of the most stunning then-undiscovered Alpine peaks. The lake is surrounded by a rolling landscape of meadows and wooded areas that make for excellent walking trails, and the region provides exceptional opportunities for hikers, cyclists, birdwatchers, and anglers. A number of villages, castles and scenic spots from the 11th century can be found around the lake, while nearby artisans offer handmade crafts to explore. For music fans, there are numerous beer gardens, churches and music festivals that dot the area. The lake is also a paradise for nature photographers, being home to a wide variety of native flora and fauna, such as wild deer, boars, eagles, and several rare species of birds. During summer, many visitors come to enjoy its peaceful waters or brave the high temperatures for a refreshing mid-day dip. Come winter, the lake takes on a new mantle of snow and ice, making it a destination of choice for people from both near and far.