Birdwatching at Wirchensee

This nature-oriented circular hike leads along Lake Wirchensee through quiet shore forests and offers good year-round observation opportunities for waterfowl and songbirds.

Start / Finish: Waldseehotel Wirchensee
Length: 3,5 km
Duration: about 2–3 hours
Path condition: natural paths, mostly close to the shore
Route: Waldseehotel, lakeside path, peninsula, circular path around the lake

Directions
The starting point is the parking lot of the Waldseehotel Wirchensee, located on a promontory between Stubbensee and Wirchensee lakes. Numerous duck species, such as the Common Merganser, Greater Merganser, and Goosander, can be observed here in winter. The trail leads along the "Weg zum Wirchensee" (Path to Wirchensee) and soon branches off to the south onto a path that almost completely circles the lake's shore. A branch path onto a peninsula offers good observation points in both areas. With a bit of luck, you might spot the Kingfisher here.
The contrast between water, forest, and open space provides habitat for siskins, tits, woodpeckers, and goldcrests. Despite the short distance, nature observation is tempting.

Additional tips:
Best time: Winter and spring are particularly productive
Equipment: Binoculars or spotting scope recommended
Stop: Waldseehotel Wirchensee
Expansion: Additional paths lead to surrounding lakes and forests.