We use cookies for your personalized browsing experience, to personalize content and ads, to provide social media features, and to analyze traffic to our website. We also share information about your use of our website with our social media, advertising and analytics partners. Our partners may combine this information with other data that you have provided to them or that they have collected as part of your use of the Services. (incl. US providers)
From a good source: The Isar is a Tyrolean

From a good source: The Isar is a Tyrolean

The source of the river Isar

Its journey is as long as it is turbulent, as eventful as it is exciting. It starts at an altitude of 1162 metres and every drop of water on its European journey needs only three days before it flows into the Black Sea. The Isar, Bavaria's fourth largest river, is Tyrolean for its first ~15 kilometres. In the Karwendel Mountains, just across the Austrian border on the high plateau of the Region Seefeld, the clear water gushes from three springs. It is a tranquil cradle at the foot of impressive peaks.

The source of the Isar is in the municipality of Scharnitz in Tyrol, surrounded by the mighty Karwendel mountain massif. Even today, the river is still part of the culture and history of the Alpine region. The source of the Isar, also known as "by the rivers", can be reached from Scharnitz on foot, by bike or e-bike. The crystal clear, blue water accompanies visitors along the beautiful Hinterau valley. At the source of the Isar, there are various water exit points that flow all year round. Information boards, a pretty resting place and a natural path leading directly to the springs characterise this scientific gem.

A short distance ahead, and framed by wonderful maple trees, the rustic Kastenalm invites you to stop for a snack. Besides families and sports enthusiasts, photographers are also known to make their way into the unspoilt valley to capture the natural spectacle with their cameras. In the Karwendel area you can relax among a variety of fauna and flora. The upper Isar is also a well-known route for canoeists and paddlers. The excellent quality of the water and the magnificent scenery are sure to persuade you to take a break in the heart of the Alps.

Hinterautal-Kastenalm,-Isar (c) Anna Rieder

Cycling

Biketour No. 578 Hinterautal-Isarursprung-Kastenalm

Length

28,00 km

Uphill

327 hm

Downhill

324 hm

Altitude

1220 hm

Difficulty

Easy

Luftaufnahmen von der Isar im Karwendel - Scharnitz (2).jpg

Hiking

Hike to the source of the river Isar & Kasten alpine hut

Length

28,20 km

Duration

06:00 h

Uphill

323 hm

Altitude

1227 hm

Difficulty

Easy

01

02

isarursprung-im-abendlicht-scharnitz-1
The source of the Isar has always been a very special water place. From the Middle Ages, the effect of the water was revered as sacred and recently it has become visible. Akiko Stein has photographed the water in her special way. The water crystal of the Isar spring sparkles full of energy.

Unique experiences