von Lisa Krenkel
14 May 2019
Summer
By e-bike to the source of the Isar river
The journey is as long as it is turbulent, as eventful as it is exciting. On its European journey, each drop of water takes only three days to flow into the Black Sea. At an altitude of 1162 meters, this journey begins and leads through 10 countries. We go to the point where it all begins: the Isar-Urpsrung near Scharnitz in the Karwendel Mountains. And we do it by e-bike.
Turquoise water, mighty mountain views
We stand in amazement at the Isar, Bavaria's fourth largest river, which learns Tyrolean well in its first 22 kilometers. In the Karwendel Mountains, just over the Austrian border in the Region Seefeld in Tyrol, the river is still a small stream. The water is shimmering turquoise. So clear that you can see every single stone on the bottom, every fish in it, no matter how small.
Our goal today is to follow the Isar to its source. We have rented e-bikes for this purpose. The route is not difficult, but the approximately 14 km are much more leisurely to manage with e-bikes. We start in Scharnitz at the large parking lot Länd at the entrance of the three Karwendel valleys. This is also where the Holzerhütte is located. A museum that tells the story of the use of wood in the Karwendel and used to serve as accommodation for the forest workers ("Holzer").
The parking lot is the starting point for many bike tours. Next to us, a couple gets on their bikes to ride to the Karwendelhaus. Also with electric assistance, as we discover. The motor makes it possible for groups, families and partners with different physical conditions to complete more demanding tours together.
The picturesque path through the Karwendel mountains
Our tour takes us through the Hinterautal valley, always along the babbling brook. Along the way, we encounter not only many other bikers, but also hikers who cool their feet in the clear water, gazing admiringly at the mighty mountain peaks that surround us. Of course, we also stop at the "Steinmandl Colony" to immortalize ourselves there. Carefully stacked stones create artistic figures that line the Isar like little tin soldiers.
Finally, we come to the source of the Isar. A small sign shows us the way to the springs. Located in a sparse forest, flooded with sunlight, the ice-cold water flows out of the mountain. We can only cool our feet for a moment, immediately our skin starts to tingle. We enjoy the moment and breathe in the mountain air deeply before we also get company from other visitors to the Isar springs. This is our signal to continue cycling to the Kastenalm, to do something good not only for our feet, but also for thirsty bodies.
For us, one thing is certain: If you are looking for adventure, love mighty mountains and want to discover the source of the Isar, you will find what you are looking for on the bike tour along the idyllic Isar in the Karwendel Nature Park.
View to the Kastenalm
Do you feel like getting on an e-bike and cycling to the source of the Isar? You can easily rent an e-bike at one of the numerous rental stations in the region. You can find more information about the rental stations here! All further information about e-biking can be found here. And last but not least: If you already know the Isarursprung and want to discover more tour destinations, we have a list with many more biking routes and tours here.
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