Bernau am Chiemsee
83233 Bernau am Chiemsee, Deutschland
Observation Tower Irschener Winkel | Birdwatching & Photos
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is one of those places where you not only see Lake Chiemsee but truly experience it. Visitors to the tower find themselves in a peaceful natural setting on the southern shore of the lake, looking into a bay that presents itself differently depending on the season: sometimes with extensive reed areas, sometimes with water lilies and pond lilies, sometimes with fresh light on the water and many birds in motion. The official description makes it clear why this place is so exciting for nature lovers: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden in Bernau-Felden, is accessible year-round, and offers a wide view of the Irschener Winkel. This combination of an easily reachable excursion destination and genuine natural space is what makes it appealing. The visit is not a strenuous effort but a relaxed detour with high experiential value. It takes about ten minutes on foot from the parking lot, and shortly after, you arrive at a station that does not feel like a tourist spectacle but rather a quiet observation spot for those who enjoy taking in the water, reeds, and birdlife in peace. Two information boards complement the nature experience and explain life at the lakeshore and in the waters of Lake Chiemsee. The Irschener Winkel is not only considered a beautiful viewpoint but also a significant breeding, resting, and molting area for waterfowl at Lake Chiemsee. This is precisely what makes it so valuable for nature observation. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Birdwatching at Irschener Winkel: Why the Tower is So Special
Visitors to the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel encounter a landscape that cannot be reduced to a single view. The official tourism description mentions an approximately 400 by 400 meter water area on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee, surrounded by extensive reed areas to the east, south, and west. In summer, almost the entire water surface is covered with pond and water lily fields, and to the southwest, the Bernauer Ache flows in, providing fresh water, sandbanks, and driftwood. This combination of shallow water, reed beds, floating leaf zones, and inflow creates conditions for a remarkable birdlife. Officially mentioned are numerous species of ducks, moorhen, coot, water rail, reed and sedge warblers, reed bunting, bluethroat, as well as a small colony of laughing gulls. Also, little grebes, black-necked grebes, and great crested grebes utilize the floating leaf zone as a nesting site. Those coming with binoculars or cameras can not only enjoy the scene but also observe it closely. The place is particularly valuable in autumn, winter, and spring when numerous migratory birds and winter visitors from northern Europe stay at Lake Chiemsee. This clear seasonal dynamic makes the tower interesting for repeated visits: A summer day shows a different side than a clear winter morning, and therein lies the strength of the Irschener Winkel. Instead of always being the same view, the place becomes a natural stage where the ecological events of the lake can be followed throughout the year. The fact that the tower is freely accessible and can be visited without an entrance fee further enhances its significance as an easily approachable natural site. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Directions, Parking, and the Path to the Observation Tower
For many visitors, the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is particularly attractive because access remains uncomplicated. The location is clearly described: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden, west of the beach area, at the address Felden 10 in 83233 Bernau am Chiemsee. The walk from the parking lots takes about ten minutes. This makes the place suitable for both a short nature stop and as a destination for a longer walk through the Chiemseepark. Those coming from Bernau can easily incorporate the path into a small loop, as the tower is situated in an area touched by several official tours and recreational paths. For those arriving by car, the Bernauer route pages mention the A8 Munich-Salzburg motorway, exit Bernau, as the appropriate access; from there, it goes towards the train station or via the local roads towards the lake. It is also practical that there are paid parking spaces P1 and P2 in the vicinity of the beach area. For those who prefer to travel ecologically, there are also good conditions: Several official routes start at the train station or lead along the Bernauer Ache and the Birkenallee towards Chiemseepark. This combination of clear location, short walking distance, and good integration into the community's path concept makes the tower practical for everyday use. There is no need to plan a long ascent or complicated access; instead, the birdwatching station can be reached quickly and comfortably. This is a significant advantage for families, older visitors, or spontaneous day-trippers. At the same time, the nature experience is not arbitrary, as the path through Chiemseepark and along the shore areas is already part of the visit. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Photos, Tours, and Current Nature Observations
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is not only a place for quiet observation but also a spot for guided nature observation. The municipality of Bernau and the Chiemsee tourism site refer to free tours offered by the Chiemsee bird guides, where visitors can learn more about the birdlife of Bernau. Special tours for groups and school classes are also possible. The tour lasts about an hour, and according to the official event page, you can join up to 30 minutes after it starts, provided you are not part of a group registration. The weather note is important: In very bad weather with no visibility or when the bays are frozen, the dates are canceled. This information is helpful for planning and fits well with nature observation, as the character of the place strongly depends on wind, light, water level, and season. Those looking for photos or wanting to compare their own observations with current images can also find the online photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee. There, nature observations from the region, especially from the bird world, have been collected for many years. The municipality explicitly refers to continuously updated photos of observed birds at Lake Chiemsee. For visitors, this means: You can prepare well for your outing, learn about typical species, and view comparison material after your visit. Particularly in the interplay between the observation tower, guided tours, and photo album, a small nature learning space emerges that goes far beyond a normal viewpoint. Therefore, the Irschener Winkel is not only interesting for people with binoculars but also for families, hobby photographers, school classes, and everyone who wants to not just consume nature but understand it. The official offerings clearly show that experience, education, and conservation thinking belong together. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden and the Surroundings by the Lake
The observation tower is not isolated but situated in an environment that significantly enhances the visit. The Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is one of the most important recreational areas of the municipality, connecting beach areas, shore paths, sports and play facilities, as well as gastronomic points of interest. The Bernau-Felden beach area is located on an idyllic small peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee and offers sunbathing areas, swimming piers, playgrounds directly by the water, beach volleyball, beach soccer, table tennis, a water playground with sun sails, and other sports and leisure activities in summer. It is particularly convenient for visitors that entry to the beach area is free, and the Bernau-Felden boat dock offers connections to Herreninsel and Fraueninsel several times a day during the season. Therefore, those who want to combine their nature visit with a classic Lake Chiemsee outing have ideal conditions. The culinary offerings in the vicinity are also well established: The municipality points out various dining options near the shore. For nature lovers, the combination of water, reeds, bathing areas, and the observation tower is exciting because the tower forms a quieter counterpoint to the lively beach area. Thus, one can experience two different Lake Chiemsee experiences in one place: the active, summery lakeside life and the quiet birdwatching. This proximity of leisure and nature makes Bernau-Felden so attractive. Those who wish to stay after looking into the Irschener Winkel can extend their walk, stroll along the lake, take a round around the park, or use the location as a starting point for further excursions. The tower thus becomes a link between natural space and recreational space. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/strandbad-chiemseepark-bernau-felden))
Walks, Cycling Tours, and Winter Paths to the Tower
Another advantage of the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is its strong integration into the official path network around Bernau am Chiemsee. Several tours from the municipality pass directly by the tower or end there. The family-friendly cycling tour to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is 6.4 kilometers long, easy, and described as a one-hour tour. It leads through the town center, along Birkenallee to Chiemseepark, and mentions a viewpoint with a view of the Irschener Winkel in close proximity. For runners, there is a 9.6-kilometer jogging loop to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden, which passes the Irschener Winkel with a nature observation station. The Bernauer-Moos loop for Nordic walking is 8.4 kilometers long, mostly flat, and ends at a viewpoint overlooking the birdlife in Irschener Winkel. In winter, the municipality describes an 8.3-kilometer winter walk to Irschener Winkel & Bernauer Moos, where the tower serves as a nature experience station. The official tour text to the path to Lake Chiemsee also mentions the nature observation tower at the nearby Irschener Winkel as a viewpoint over the bay covered with water lilies and one of the most significant breeding areas for birds at Lake Chiemsee. These paths show that the tower functions not only as a single destination but is embedded in various activity formats: short walk, leisurely round tour, winter hike, jogging loop, or cycling trip. So, if you plan a small birdwatching session in the morning and want to take a larger round in the afternoon, you will find very good conditions in Bernau. The tower is thus not only a viewpoint but also a hub for nature-related movement by the lake. The official connection with winter and summer paths makes the place interesting throughout the year. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/touren/zum-chiemsee-lrschener-winkel-bernauer-moos))
Why Irschener Winkel is One of the Best Nature Spots at Lake Chiemsee
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel combines several strengths that are rarely found simultaneously at good nature spots: very easy accessibility, free access, a clear protective and observational interest, and a landscape that appears different throughout the year. For visitors, this is particularly pleasant because the outing is neither expensive nor complicated. For the municipality and the region, the tower is simultaneously a valuable component of nature tourism. Lake Chiemsee itself is described in the official Bernau documents as the third-largest lake in Germany, covering 80 square kilometers, and it is precisely in this large natural space that the strength of Irschener Winkel lies: It is not a spectacular peak but a quiet, precise view of an ecologically significant lakeshore segment. The mixture of reeds, water lilies, shallow water, the inflow of the Bernauer Ache, and rich birdlife creates an image that can be captured as well in photos as it can be observed in peace. Therefore, those who visit the tower not only experience a beautiful view but also a concrete, well-documented nature station. The information boards, guided tours, and the photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee expand the place into a small learning and observation space by the water. For returning visitors, the seasonal dependency is also exciting: In autumn, winter, and spring, the chances of migratory birds and winter guests increase, while summer highlights the images of water lilies and reeds. This variability makes the place interesting for the long term. When all this is taken together, it quickly becomes clear why the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel in Bernau am Chiemsee is so often sought after: It is easily accessible, close to nature, informative, and a real asset for people who want to experience Lake Chiemsee quietly, attentively, and with an eye for detail. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
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Observation Tower Irschener Winkel | Birdwatching & Photos
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is one of those places where you not only see Lake Chiemsee but truly experience it. Visitors to the tower find themselves in a peaceful natural setting on the southern shore of the lake, looking into a bay that presents itself differently depending on the season: sometimes with extensive reed areas, sometimes with water lilies and pond lilies, sometimes with fresh light on the water and many birds in motion. The official description makes it clear why this place is so exciting for nature lovers: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden in Bernau-Felden, is accessible year-round, and offers a wide view of the Irschener Winkel. This combination of an easily reachable excursion destination and genuine natural space is what makes it appealing. The visit is not a strenuous effort but a relaxed detour with high experiential value. It takes about ten minutes on foot from the parking lot, and shortly after, you arrive at a station that does not feel like a tourist spectacle but rather a quiet observation spot for those who enjoy taking in the water, reeds, and birdlife in peace. Two information boards complement the nature experience and explain life at the lakeshore and in the waters of Lake Chiemsee. The Irschener Winkel is not only considered a beautiful viewpoint but also a significant breeding, resting, and molting area for waterfowl at Lake Chiemsee. This is precisely what makes it so valuable for nature observation. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Birdwatching at Irschener Winkel: Why the Tower is So Special
Visitors to the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel encounter a landscape that cannot be reduced to a single view. The official tourism description mentions an approximately 400 by 400 meter water area on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee, surrounded by extensive reed areas to the east, south, and west. In summer, almost the entire water surface is covered with pond and water lily fields, and to the southwest, the Bernauer Ache flows in, providing fresh water, sandbanks, and driftwood. This combination of shallow water, reed beds, floating leaf zones, and inflow creates conditions for a remarkable birdlife. Officially mentioned are numerous species of ducks, moorhen, coot, water rail, reed and sedge warblers, reed bunting, bluethroat, as well as a small colony of laughing gulls. Also, little grebes, black-necked grebes, and great crested grebes utilize the floating leaf zone as a nesting site. Those coming with binoculars or cameras can not only enjoy the scene but also observe it closely. The place is particularly valuable in autumn, winter, and spring when numerous migratory birds and winter visitors from northern Europe stay at Lake Chiemsee. This clear seasonal dynamic makes the tower interesting for repeated visits: A summer day shows a different side than a clear winter morning, and therein lies the strength of the Irschener Winkel. Instead of always being the same view, the place becomes a natural stage where the ecological events of the lake can be followed throughout the year. The fact that the tower is freely accessible and can be visited without an entrance fee further enhances its significance as an easily approachable natural site. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Directions, Parking, and the Path to the Observation Tower
For many visitors, the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is particularly attractive because access remains uncomplicated. The location is clearly described: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden, west of the beach area, at the address Felden 10 in 83233 Bernau am Chiemsee. The walk from the parking lots takes about ten minutes. This makes the place suitable for both a short nature stop and as a destination for a longer walk through the Chiemseepark. Those coming from Bernau can easily incorporate the path into a small loop, as the tower is situated in an area touched by several official tours and recreational paths. For those arriving by car, the Bernauer route pages mention the A8 Munich-Salzburg motorway, exit Bernau, as the appropriate access; from there, it goes towards the train station or via the local roads towards the lake. It is also practical that there are paid parking spaces P1 and P2 in the vicinity of the beach area. For those who prefer to travel ecologically, there are also good conditions: Several official routes start at the train station or lead along the Bernauer Ache and the Birkenallee towards Chiemseepark. This combination of clear location, short walking distance, and good integration into the community's path concept makes the tower practical for everyday use. There is no need to plan a long ascent or complicated access; instead, the birdwatching station can be reached quickly and comfortably. This is a significant advantage for families, older visitors, or spontaneous day-trippers. At the same time, the nature experience is not arbitrary, as the path through Chiemseepark and along the shore areas is already part of the visit. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Photos, Tours, and Current Nature Observations
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is not only a place for quiet observation but also a spot for guided nature observation. The municipality of Bernau and the Chiemsee tourism site refer to free tours offered by the Chiemsee bird guides, where visitors can learn more about the birdlife of Bernau. Special tours for groups and school classes are also possible. The tour lasts about an hour, and according to the official event page, you can join up to 30 minutes after it starts, provided you are not part of a group registration. The weather note is important: In very bad weather with no visibility or when the bays are frozen, the dates are canceled. This information is helpful for planning and fits well with nature observation, as the character of the place strongly depends on wind, light, water level, and season. Those looking for photos or wanting to compare their own observations with current images can also find the online photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee. There, nature observations from the region, especially from the bird world, have been collected for many years. The municipality explicitly refers to continuously updated photos of observed birds at Lake Chiemsee. For visitors, this means: You can prepare well for your outing, learn about typical species, and view comparison material after your visit. Particularly in the interplay between the observation tower, guided tours, and photo album, a small nature learning space emerges that goes far beyond a normal viewpoint. Therefore, the Irschener Winkel is not only interesting for people with binoculars but also for families, hobby photographers, school classes, and everyone who wants to not just consume nature but understand it. The official offerings clearly show that experience, education, and conservation thinking belong together. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden and the Surroundings by the Lake
The observation tower is not isolated but situated in an environment that significantly enhances the visit. The Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is one of the most important recreational areas of the municipality, connecting beach areas, shore paths, sports and play facilities, as well as gastronomic points of interest. The Bernau-Felden beach area is located on an idyllic small peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee and offers sunbathing areas, swimming piers, playgrounds directly by the water, beach volleyball, beach soccer, table tennis, a water playground with sun sails, and other sports and leisure activities in summer. It is particularly convenient for visitors that entry to the beach area is free, and the Bernau-Felden boat dock offers connections to Herreninsel and Fraueninsel several times a day during the season. Therefore, those who want to combine their nature visit with a classic Lake Chiemsee outing have ideal conditions. The culinary offerings in the vicinity are also well established: The municipality points out various dining options near the shore. For nature lovers, the combination of water, reeds, bathing areas, and the observation tower is exciting because the tower forms a quieter counterpoint to the lively beach area. Thus, one can experience two different Lake Chiemsee experiences in one place: the active, summery lakeside life and the quiet birdwatching. This proximity of leisure and nature makes Bernau-Felden so attractive. Those who wish to stay after looking into the Irschener Winkel can extend their walk, stroll along the lake, take a round around the park, or use the location as a starting point for further excursions. The tower thus becomes a link between natural space and recreational space. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/strandbad-chiemseepark-bernau-felden))
Walks, Cycling Tours, and Winter Paths to the Tower
Another advantage of the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is its strong integration into the official path network around Bernau am Chiemsee. Several tours from the municipality pass directly by the tower or end there. The family-friendly cycling tour to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is 6.4 kilometers long, easy, and described as a one-hour tour. It leads through the town center, along Birkenallee to Chiemseepark, and mentions a viewpoint with a view of the Irschener Winkel in close proximity. For runners, there is a 9.6-kilometer jogging loop to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden, which passes the Irschener Winkel with a nature observation station. The Bernauer-Moos loop for Nordic walking is 8.4 kilometers long, mostly flat, and ends at a viewpoint overlooking the birdlife in Irschener Winkel. In winter, the municipality describes an 8.3-kilometer winter walk to Irschener Winkel & Bernauer Moos, where the tower serves as a nature experience station. The official tour text to the path to Lake Chiemsee also mentions the nature observation tower at the nearby Irschener Winkel as a viewpoint over the bay covered with water lilies and one of the most significant breeding areas for birds at Lake Chiemsee. These paths show that the tower functions not only as a single destination but is embedded in various activity formats: short walk, leisurely round tour, winter hike, jogging loop, or cycling trip. So, if you plan a small birdwatching session in the morning and want to take a larger round in the afternoon, you will find very good conditions in Bernau. The tower is thus not only a viewpoint but also a hub for nature-related movement by the lake. The official connection with winter and summer paths makes the place interesting throughout the year. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/touren/zum-chiemsee-lrschener-winkel-bernauer-moos))
Why Irschener Winkel is One of the Best Nature Spots at Lake Chiemsee
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel combines several strengths that are rarely found simultaneously at good nature spots: very easy accessibility, free access, a clear protective and observational interest, and a landscape that appears different throughout the year. For visitors, this is particularly pleasant because the outing is neither expensive nor complicated. For the municipality and the region, the tower is simultaneously a valuable component of nature tourism. Lake Chiemsee itself is described in the official Bernau documents as the third-largest lake in Germany, covering 80 square kilometers, and it is precisely in this large natural space that the strength of Irschener Winkel lies: It is not a spectacular peak but a quiet, precise view of an ecologically significant lakeshore segment. The mixture of reeds, water lilies, shallow water, the inflow of the Bernauer Ache, and rich birdlife creates an image that can be captured as well in photos as it can be observed in peace. Therefore, those who visit the tower not only experience a beautiful view but also a concrete, well-documented nature station. The information boards, guided tours, and the photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee expand the place into a small learning and observation space by the water. For returning visitors, the seasonal dependency is also exciting: In autumn, winter, and spring, the chances of migratory birds and winter guests increase, while summer highlights the images of water lilies and reeds. This variability makes the place interesting for the long term. When all this is taken together, it quickly becomes clear why the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel in Bernau am Chiemsee is so often sought after: It is easily accessible, close to nature, informative, and a real asset for people who want to experience Lake Chiemsee quietly, attentively, and with an eye for detail. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Sources:
Observation Tower Irschener Winkel | Birdwatching & Photos
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is one of those places where you not only see Lake Chiemsee but truly experience it. Visitors to the tower find themselves in a peaceful natural setting on the southern shore of the lake, looking into a bay that presents itself differently depending on the season: sometimes with extensive reed areas, sometimes with water lilies and pond lilies, sometimes with fresh light on the water and many birds in motion. The official description makes it clear why this place is so exciting for nature lovers: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden in Bernau-Felden, is accessible year-round, and offers a wide view of the Irschener Winkel. This combination of an easily reachable excursion destination and genuine natural space is what makes it appealing. The visit is not a strenuous effort but a relaxed detour with high experiential value. It takes about ten minutes on foot from the parking lot, and shortly after, you arrive at a station that does not feel like a tourist spectacle but rather a quiet observation spot for those who enjoy taking in the water, reeds, and birdlife in peace. Two information boards complement the nature experience and explain life at the lakeshore and in the waters of Lake Chiemsee. The Irschener Winkel is not only considered a beautiful viewpoint but also a significant breeding, resting, and molting area for waterfowl at Lake Chiemsee. This is precisely what makes it so valuable for nature observation. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Birdwatching at Irschener Winkel: Why the Tower is So Special
Visitors to the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel encounter a landscape that cannot be reduced to a single view. The official tourism description mentions an approximately 400 by 400 meter water area on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee, surrounded by extensive reed areas to the east, south, and west. In summer, almost the entire water surface is covered with pond and water lily fields, and to the southwest, the Bernauer Ache flows in, providing fresh water, sandbanks, and driftwood. This combination of shallow water, reed beds, floating leaf zones, and inflow creates conditions for a remarkable birdlife. Officially mentioned are numerous species of ducks, moorhen, coot, water rail, reed and sedge warblers, reed bunting, bluethroat, as well as a small colony of laughing gulls. Also, little grebes, black-necked grebes, and great crested grebes utilize the floating leaf zone as a nesting site. Those coming with binoculars or cameras can not only enjoy the scene but also observe it closely. The place is particularly valuable in autumn, winter, and spring when numerous migratory birds and winter visitors from northern Europe stay at Lake Chiemsee. This clear seasonal dynamic makes the tower interesting for repeated visits: A summer day shows a different side than a clear winter morning, and therein lies the strength of the Irschener Winkel. Instead of always being the same view, the place becomes a natural stage where the ecological events of the lake can be followed throughout the year. The fact that the tower is freely accessible and can be visited without an entrance fee further enhances its significance as an easily approachable natural site. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Directions, Parking, and the Path to the Observation Tower
For many visitors, the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is particularly attractive because access remains uncomplicated. The location is clearly described: The tower is located in the Chiemseepark Felden, west of the beach area, at the address Felden 10 in 83233 Bernau am Chiemsee. The walk from the parking lots takes about ten minutes. This makes the place suitable for both a short nature stop and as a destination for a longer walk through the Chiemseepark. Those coming from Bernau can easily incorporate the path into a small loop, as the tower is situated in an area touched by several official tours and recreational paths. For those arriving by car, the Bernauer route pages mention the A8 Munich-Salzburg motorway, exit Bernau, as the appropriate access; from there, it goes towards the train station or via the local roads towards the lake. It is also practical that there are paid parking spaces P1 and P2 in the vicinity of the beach area. For those who prefer to travel ecologically, there are also good conditions: Several official routes start at the train station or lead along the Bernauer Ache and the Birkenallee towards Chiemseepark. This combination of clear location, short walking distance, and good integration into the community's path concept makes the tower practical for everyday use. There is no need to plan a long ascent or complicated access; instead, the birdwatching station can be reached quickly and comfortably. This is a significant advantage for families, older visitors, or spontaneous day-trippers. At the same time, the nature experience is not arbitrary, as the path through Chiemseepark and along the shore areas is already part of the visit. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Photos, Tours, and Current Nature Observations
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is not only a place for quiet observation but also a spot for guided nature observation. The municipality of Bernau and the Chiemsee tourism site refer to free tours offered by the Chiemsee bird guides, where visitors can learn more about the birdlife of Bernau. Special tours for groups and school classes are also possible. The tour lasts about an hour, and according to the official event page, you can join up to 30 minutes after it starts, provided you are not part of a group registration. The weather note is important: In very bad weather with no visibility or when the bays are frozen, the dates are canceled. This information is helpful for planning and fits well with nature observation, as the character of the place strongly depends on wind, light, water level, and season. Those looking for photos or wanting to compare their own observations with current images can also find the online photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee. There, nature observations from the region, especially from the bird world, have been collected for many years. The municipality explicitly refers to continuously updated photos of observed birds at Lake Chiemsee. For visitors, this means: You can prepare well for your outing, learn about typical species, and view comparison material after your visit. Particularly in the interplay between the observation tower, guided tours, and photo album, a small nature learning space emerges that goes far beyond a normal viewpoint. Therefore, the Irschener Winkel is not only interesting for people with binoculars but also for families, hobby photographers, school classes, and everyone who wants to not just consume nature but understand it. The official offerings clearly show that experience, education, and conservation thinking belong together. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden and the Surroundings by the Lake
The observation tower is not isolated but situated in an environment that significantly enhances the visit. The Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is one of the most important recreational areas of the municipality, connecting beach areas, shore paths, sports and play facilities, as well as gastronomic points of interest. The Bernau-Felden beach area is located on an idyllic small peninsula on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee and offers sunbathing areas, swimming piers, playgrounds directly by the water, beach volleyball, beach soccer, table tennis, a water playground with sun sails, and other sports and leisure activities in summer. It is particularly convenient for visitors that entry to the beach area is free, and the Bernau-Felden boat dock offers connections to Herreninsel and Fraueninsel several times a day during the season. Therefore, those who want to combine their nature visit with a classic Lake Chiemsee outing have ideal conditions. The culinary offerings in the vicinity are also well established: The municipality points out various dining options near the shore. For nature lovers, the combination of water, reeds, bathing areas, and the observation tower is exciting because the tower forms a quieter counterpoint to the lively beach area. Thus, one can experience two different Lake Chiemsee experiences in one place: the active, summery lakeside life and the quiet birdwatching. This proximity of leisure and nature makes Bernau-Felden so attractive. Those who wish to stay after looking into the Irschener Winkel can extend their walk, stroll along the lake, take a round around the park, or use the location as a starting point for further excursions. The tower thus becomes a link between natural space and recreational space. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/strandbad-chiemseepark-bernau-felden))
Walks, Cycling Tours, and Winter Paths to the Tower
Another advantage of the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel is its strong integration into the official path network around Bernau am Chiemsee. Several tours from the municipality pass directly by the tower or end there. The family-friendly cycling tour to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden is 6.4 kilometers long, easy, and described as a one-hour tour. It leads through the town center, along Birkenallee to Chiemseepark, and mentions a viewpoint with a view of the Irschener Winkel in close proximity. For runners, there is a 9.6-kilometer jogging loop to Chiemseepark Bernau-Felden, which passes the Irschener Winkel with a nature observation station. The Bernauer-Moos loop for Nordic walking is 8.4 kilometers long, mostly flat, and ends at a viewpoint overlooking the birdlife in Irschener Winkel. In winter, the municipality describes an 8.3-kilometer winter walk to Irschener Winkel & Bernauer Moos, where the tower serves as a nature experience station. The official tour text to the path to Lake Chiemsee also mentions the nature observation tower at the nearby Irschener Winkel as a viewpoint over the bay covered with water lilies and one of the most significant breeding areas for birds at Lake Chiemsee. These paths show that the tower functions not only as a single destination but is embedded in various activity formats: short walk, leisurely round tour, winter hike, jogging loop, or cycling trip. So, if you plan a small birdwatching session in the morning and want to take a larger round in the afternoon, you will find very good conditions in Bernau. The tower is thus not only a viewpoint but also a hub for nature-related movement by the lake. The official connection with winter and summer paths makes the place interesting throughout the year. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/touren/zum-chiemsee-lrschener-winkel-bernauer-moos))
Why Irschener Winkel is One of the Best Nature Spots at Lake Chiemsee
The Observation Tower Irschener Winkel combines several strengths that are rarely found simultaneously at good nature spots: very easy accessibility, free access, a clear protective and observational interest, and a landscape that appears different throughout the year. For visitors, this is particularly pleasant because the outing is neither expensive nor complicated. For the municipality and the region, the tower is simultaneously a valuable component of nature tourism. Lake Chiemsee itself is described in the official Bernau documents as the third-largest lake in Germany, covering 80 square kilometers, and it is precisely in this large natural space that the strength of Irschener Winkel lies: It is not a spectacular peak but a quiet, precise view of an ecologically significant lakeshore segment. The mixture of reeds, water lilies, shallow water, the inflow of the Bernauer Ache, and rich birdlife creates an image that can be captured as well in photos as it can be observed in peace. Therefore, those who visit the tower not only experience a beautiful view but also a concrete, well-documented nature station. The information boards, guided tours, and the photo album from Natur.Erlebnis.Chiemsee expand the place into a small learning and observation space by the water. For returning visitors, the seasonal dependency is also exciting: In autumn, winter, and spring, the chances of migratory birds and winter guests increase, while summer highlights the images of water lilies and reeds. This variability makes the place interesting for the long term. When all this is taken together, it quickly becomes clear why the Observation Tower Irschener Winkel in Bernau am Chiemsee is so often sought after: It is easily accessible, close to nature, informative, and a real asset for people who want to experience Lake Chiemsee quietly, attentively, and with an eye for detail. ([bernau-am-chiemsee.de](https://www.bernau-am-chiemsee.de/media/pois/beobachtungsturm-irschener-winkel))
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Reviews
Urlaub mit Hund am Chiemsee Ronja
21. May 2025
The observation tower at Irschener Winkel is a beautiful spot for anyone who loves peace and nature – perfect for a walk with your dog too. The tower is located on the southern shore of Lake Chiemsee and can be reached in about ten minutes from the parking lot in Chiemseepark Felden. From the top, you get a wide view over reed areas, lily pads, and water surfaces. The birdlife is particularly exciting – with a bit of luck, you can even spot rare species here. Information boards explain the habitats. A real insider tip, away from the hustle and bustle, and a little nature experience at any time of the year.
Claudia Ruppert
10. July 2019
This observation tower offers a wonderful view of a beautiful world of nature, birds, and insects. Equipped with literature, you can see many bird species with your personal camera, the naked eye, or a telescope set up there, which you can no longer find in nature. We sat there for a long time and were amazed by the variety. However, we had the sad impression that many people were not interested in this tower; mostly, cyclists passed by, loudly orienting themselves without knowing that the path ends there. A car parked right next to the tower also disturbed the idyll, as did a family who, along with their children, had nothing better to do than scream loudly and climb the tower while sleeping against it. We noticed this at other locations in the area as well, and we recommend specifically pointing this out or paying attention to it. We would love to come back.
Eberhard Brachhold
11. April 2020
Small observation tower with a telescope. Unfortunately placed too close to the hut, benches, and the sailing club's dock, so it's not the quietest spot. Lots of information about the animal and plant world. Stamp for the collection pass. From the tower, there's a nice view of the lake and the marsh. A nice stop during a bike tour by the lake.
Alfred Platschka
9. October 2022
Hidden lake corner, near the Felden/Chiemsee swimming pool. Birdwatching station in the reeds (single-story) with a beautiful view of the southwestern corner of Lake Chiemsee. Depending on the weather, a lovely place for relaxation and observing the local fauna and flora.
Joe
8. January 2022
Around the observation tower, there are various boards with information about the animal and plant world. On the tower, there's a telescope to observe animals, and it offers a beautiful view of the mountains.