Discover Ebni and Lake Ebnisee

For a trip to Ebni, Lake Ebnisee is a natural focal point. It lies in a valley between Ebni and Kaisersbach. Its size, circular trail and range of activities offer several ways to enjoy your stay by the water. There is also a natural monument, a hike exploring Roman frontier history, and an inclusive event.

At Lake Ebnisee: the lake and circular trail

Lake Ebnisee covers around 6.7 hectares, is up to about five metres deep, and is fed mainly by the Sommerbach stream, which flows in at the northern shore. The path around the lake is about 1.7 kilometres long and almost flat. It is paved on the eastern side; apart from a short incline, it is easy to navigate with a stroller or wheelchair.

Swimming is possible at Lake Ebnisee, as are rowing and pedal boating. Walks along the lakeshore, designated barbecue areas and sunbathing lawns add to the ways you can spend time by the water. If you mainly want to explore on foot, you can plan to follow the circular trail or take walks along the shore. Swimming and boating, by contrast, put the focus on the water. Barbecues are permitted at the designated areas.

In Kaisersbach, there are accessible toilets for people with disabilities at Lake Ebnisee, at the kiosk by the car park and at the Waldschenke. Check on arrival whether the facilities are available.

Natural monument and Roman frontier history

Gallengrotte is a natural monument in the area around Lake Ebnisee. From the northern shore, it can be reached via a scenic, natural path; conditions on the path may vary. This route therefore follows a different path from the circular trail around the lake described above.

Another option for an outing focused on history is the hike “From Lake Ebnisee to the Limes World Heritage Site.” It follows the Roman frontier, partly along the old boundary wall, and passes the remains of watchtowers and a former small fort. Information boards along the way offer insights into Roman life on the border with Germania. While Gallengrotte, as a natural monument, offers a nature-focused visit, this hike centres on Roman frontier history and its archaeological traces.

Events and history

“Ebnisee für Alle” is an inclusive event held around the lake. It has taken place over three days between May and August since 2008. Activities are free of charge; check the dates, programme and cost information for the specific year of the event. As the event is limited to three days, it is especially worth checking these details if you want to plan your stay around it.

Lake Ebnisee was first dammed in the winter of 1745/1746 and permanently dammed from 1884. The permanent impoundment marked the start of modest tourism around the lake. Over the following decades, Lake Ebnisee developed into a popular local recreation destination, as it remains today.

The name of the district of Ebni may also have a connection to the history of glassmaking. It is probably linked to medieval glassmaking and could refer to the levelling of glass that was initially blown into a hollow shape.

For the broader travel overview: Rems-Murr District.