Sylvensteinsee, Reservoir in Lenggries, Germany.
Sylvensteinsee is a reservoir in Lenggries, Germany, stretching between mountains in Upper Bavaria. Unpaved trails wind along the shoreline and pass through pine woods to reach quiet coves with gravel beaches.
The dam was built between 1954 and 1959, flooding the village of Fall along with its houses and fields. The project aimed to protect Munich from floods and secure drinking water for the city.
The name of the lake refers to a forested landscape that once lined the Isar valley and now lies beneath the surface. Swimmers and families from nearby towns visit the shore on warm days to cool off and spend hours by the water.
A regional train to Lenggries station followed by a mountain bus brings visitors to the lake. Those who hike or cycle should plan several hours to explore the trails along the shore.
The submerged church of Fall sometimes reappears when the water level drops sharply and exposes the old village center. Remains of the cemetery wall and foundations of old houses become visible again and draw curious hikers to the shore.
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