Three lakes, three short trips: the perfect mini-break

May and June are made for spontaneous getaways. With public holidays, long weekends, and that first real feeling of spring, it’s the ideal time to escape your routine. No complicated planning – just plenty of relaxation.

And the best part? You don’t have to travel far to feel like you’re on holiday. A quick trip to Germany feels like a real break – new landscapes, a different pace, and still easy to reach. 

We’ve selected three lakes in Germany that are not only stunning, but also perfect for a peaceful weekend escape. Whether you're travelling by train, plane, or car, pack your weekender or carry-on suitcase and get inspired.

Traunsee & Traunkirchen: Alpine views, just two hours from Munich 

Roughly a two-hour drive from Munich lies the Traunsee – a deep-blue, almost fjord-like lake in the heart of the Salzkammergut region. Surrounded by dramatic rock walls, cosy boathouses, and historic villages, it’s the kind of place you’ll always want to return to. The charming village of Traunkirchen sits right on the water – peaceful, yet full of little surprises.

What makes this place so special?
It is a true paradise for hikers, with everything from gentle lake walks to more demanding mountain hikes up the Traunstein. Prefer something more relaxed? Start your day with a paddleboard session or simply take in the views from a bench on the shore.

Fancy treating yourself? Book a room at Post am Traunsee – a boutique hotel that perfectly blends urban style with a connection to nature. Foodies will love the Bootshaus restaurant right by the water.

Where to stay:
Aside from the Post, there are plenty of cosy guesthouses and holiday rentals along the lake. For something quieter, check out nearby villages like Ebensee. 

Packing tip:
A compact weekender is perfect for a Traunsee trip – spacious enough for hiking boots, swimwear and a good book, yet small enough for the train or car boot. 

Liepnitzsee: Island vibes just outside Berlin

Less than an hour north of Berlin, Liepnitzsee is a clear, forest-fringed lake with a tiny island at its centre. It’s one of the cleanest lakes in Brandenburg and a favourite among Berliners looking for a quick escape without the travel fuss.

What makes this place so special? 
Hop on the little ferry Frieda to the island, lay down your picnic blanket and do... absolutely nothing. This place is relaxed, green, and beautifully slow. Wander barefoot through the pine forest, cycle around the lake, or swim until you’re shivering – ideal for a peaceful day trip or a full weekend offline. 

Where to stay:
You’ll find charming accommodation in Wandlitz or Bernau. Want to get closer to nature? Bring your tent or camper – there are simple campsites nearby, tucked into the woods.

Packing tip: 
Hand luggage is all you need. A soft weekender or compact case fits easily on the train – or strapped to your bike. 

The Garrensee in Schleswig-Holstein is the kind of place that slows you down the moment you arrive. Tucked between ancient trees, rolling hills and quiet peatlands, this peaceful lake is hidden away in the landscape. Part of the protected Salemer Moor nature reserve, it feels like a little world of its own.

What makes this place so special? 
It’s all about peace and quiet. Reading a book on the dock, gliding across the lake in a canoe, or wandering through the forest for hours – sometimes, that’s all you need. Maybe you’ll spot a heron or see morning mist hovering over the water. 

Where to stay: 
You’ll find simple, charming holiday cottages and small guesthouses in the area. Or find your stay in Ratzeburg – a peaceful town with its own lakes and relaxed atmosphere. 

Packing tip: 
For travelling by car, a 55 cm suitcase is ideal. Easy to manage and perfect for a nature-focused mini-retreat. 

Banner 1:
Hotel Das Traunsee and Terrace Restaurant Bootshaus at Hotel Das Traunsee   
(c) Groeller Hospitality/Photo Christof Wagner

Banner 3:
Belétage Bar _Hotel Post am See
(c) Groeller Hospitality/Photo Christof Wagner

Food Sharing at Restaurant Belétage_Hotel Post am See
(c) Groeller Hospitality/Photo Georg Kukuvec

Rooftop Lake Spa with infinity pool and lake view
(c) Groeller Hospitality/Photo Christof Wagner