Lake Constance

Lake Constance, known in German as Bodensee, is more than a mere body of water; it’s a grand natural spectacle located at the northern foot of the Alps. This remarkable lake, shared by Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, is a gem in the heart of Europe. Spanning a maximum length of 63 kilometers and a width of up to 14 kilometers, Lake Constance covers a vast area of 536 square kilometers. Its average depth of 90 meters and a maximum depth of 251 meters add to its mystique.

Geography: A Lake of Three Parts

Lake Constance comprises three distinct sections: the Upper Lake (Obersee), the Lower Lake (Untersee), and the Lake Rhine (Seerhein), connecting the two. These bodies of water reside within the expansive Lake Constance Basin in the Alpine Foreland, with the Rhine River playing a pivotal role in their formation and sustenance. The lake’s shoreline touches the German states of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, the Swiss cantons of St. Gallen, Thurgau, and Schaffhausen, and the Austrian state of Vorarlberg.

The Alpine Rhine’s Journey

The Alpine Rhine, originating in the Alps, makes its grand entrance into the lake from the south and continues its journey westward, exiting the lake as the High Rhine. This journey marks the border between Germany and Switzerland, with the only exception being the Canton of Schaffhausen.

Bustling Lakeside Towns and Serene Islands

The shores of Lake Constance are dotted with bustling towns and serene islands. Towns such as Constance, Friedrichshafen, Bregenz, and Lindau on the Upper Lake, along with Radolfzell on the Lower Lake, are notable for their vibrant communities. The islands of Reichenau, Lindau, and Mainau each offer unique experiences and historical significance.

Historical and Linguistic Legacy

The lake’s name in English and Romance languages derives from the city of Constance, while its German name, Bodensee, originates from the village of Bodman. The lake’s rich history is evident in its ancient names, such as Lacus Lemanus during Julius Caesar’s time.

A Lake of Varied Depths and Rich Ecosystems

Lake Constance’s varied depths create diverse ecosystems. The lake’s main section, the Obersee, boasts about 473 square kilometers, while the Untersee offers a more intimate 63 square kilometers. The Seerhein, often regarded as a river, connects these two parts. The lake’s deepest point, precisely in the middle of the Upper Lake, adds to its allure.

A Vital Source of Freshwater

Lake Constance is a crucial source of freshwater for the region, with a water volume of approximately 48 cubic kilometers. The catchment area of the lake extends far and wide, reaching altitudes as high as 3,613 meters above sea level at Piz Russein.