Just 45 minutes south of Munich, nestled on the shores of Lake Tegernsee, lies a lakeside retreat that seamlessly blends Bavarian hospitality with understated sophistication: Haltmair am See. This is no ordinary hotel – it’s a sanctuary, lovingly run by fourth-generation hosts Jenny and Andreas Eham, where charm is a given and comfort comes naturally.
A Lakeside Hideaway
Tegernsee may not be world-famous, but to Germans, it’s a beloved alpine escape. An idyllic spot for hiking and swimming in the summer, or unwinding with wellness and skiing in the winter. Locals sometimes call it “Bavaria’s Palm Beach.” The lake shimmers like glass, framed by snow-dusted peaks and dotted with charming villages.
At the southern tip lies Rottach-Egern, a postcard-perfect spa town. Think historic chalets, well-heeled locals, artisanal shops, gourmet restaurants. And one particularly enchanting down-to-earth hotel just steps from the lake. Haltmair am See may technically sit behind a quiet road, but its name is no exaggeration: you’ll wake up with the lake right in front of you.
This is not a sprawling resort, but a lovingly composed collection of buildings and apartments where every guest feels like a friend of the family. The atmosphere is warm, unpretentious, and effortlessly elegant. Jenny and Andreas Eham are always present – but never intrusive. Their care is felt in every detail, from the cozy interiors to the breakfast spread served daily.
Culinary
Though Haltmair am See operates as a Garni – a hotel that only serves breakfast – it hides a delightful culinary secret just below: Haubentaucher, a lakefront bistro led by Michelin-starred chef Alois “Lois” Neuschmid. Trained under Hans Haas at Munich’s iconic Tantris, Neuschmid brings serious pedigree to his playful, locally rooted cuisine. His dishes, crafted in a tiny kitchen steps from the water, are reason enough to reserve a table well in advance.
Without a rigid half-board dining format, guests can discover Rottach-Egern’s culinary landscape or cook a light meal in their own apartment kitchens. The 30 rooms offer alpine comfort and beautiful views – either of the lake or the vast private gardens. A newly renovated building, charmingly called Drei-Mäderl-Haus (named after the hosts’ three daughters), features elegant studios and apartments ideal for longer stays. There are a total of eight apartments.
Wellness & Yoga
The spa facilities are impressively extensive for a boutique hotel: a 15-meter indoor pool, several saunas, a steam bath, and a quiet relaxation room – all spotlessly maintained and included in the stay, even for guests in the apartments and chalets. Massages and treatments can also be booked on request.
A sleek new lakefront loft hosts yoga retreats throughout the year, while guests are welcome to use the stylish fitness area at any time. Whether you prefer downward dog at dawn or a lakeside sun salutation, the space is yours.
Special
Larger groups and families will love Chalet Käthe, a standalone vacation home with all the comforts of the main hotel, as well as three charming apartments in a separate house nearby. Each offers privacy, style, and the same thoughtful touches that define the Haltmair experience. Just ask the Haltmair team.
Ideal for
Travelers seeking alpine beauty without the altitude. Families, couples, solo retreaters – anyone who values tranquility, nature, and the feeling of being quietly cared for. PS: To Munich it’s just a 45-minute drive.
Prices
Doubles around 230 euro including breakfast.
Booking & Contacts
Haltmair am See
Jenny & Andreas Eham
Seestraße 33 – 37a
83700 Rottach-Egern
Bavaria
Tel: +49 8022 2750
