Once known as Dumbsee, today we stand before the serene Thumsee. Its name’s origin is uncertain. It might come from the German word “tumb” meaning “mute”. Or maybe the Latin “dumosus” meaning overgrown.
Thumsee lies a bit over a mile from Bad Reichenhall. This lake is nestled in a nature reserve. Its crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding landscape. The lake earns its reputation as a green emerald.
Thumsee has a special allure. It’s a haven for locals and travelers. In summer, Thumsee transforms into a lively swimming spot. The Thumseebad offers infrastructure including a terrace café. When winter arrives, ice-skaters glide across its frozen surface. Ice-curling players join the fun. All year round, Thumsee provides tranquility.
Take note of the Seemösl. It is also known as Seerosensee. This marshy pond lies east of the Thumsee. It held Germany’s oldest water lily farm. It started in 1936. Nine different water lily types were grown here. Sadly, the farm is no longer maintained. Today almost no water lilies bloom.
Thumsee’s waters flow onward. The Seebach carries water through the Seemösl. It then joins the Hosewaschbach and Saalach. Finally, it merges into the Salzach.
The main inflow comes from the Nesselgraben. It approaches from the southwest. It vanishes underground for the last few hundred meters. The Nesselgraben feeds the lake. Once, the Egelsee was marked on maps here. By 1841, it was almost dried up.
In 2007 and 2013, dry conditions led to forest fires on Antoniberg. The fires lasted three days. About 20 to 30 hectares of protected forest burned. Thumsee became a vital water source. Firefighters and helicopters used it to fight the flames.
The area offers more than just the lake. The spa zone has biking trails. Around 50 km invite exploration. Popular routes include Thumsee Lake. Also Saalbach Lake and the path along the Saalach River.
During winter you might want to experience snowshoe hiking. You could trek to Predigtstuhl summit. The reward is vistas of Bad Reichenhall’s landscape. If weather allows, you can experience ice-skating on Lake Thumsee.
The Hotel Seeblick is located close to the lake. It welcomes families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Thumsee is more than just a lake. It is a place of history and recreation. Its clear waters and rich past offer a unique experience. Take a moment to soak it in. Think of the stories it could tell.