As five glorious weeks in the Bavarian Alps comes to an end, there is time for one last swim in these incomparable lakes.
Fed by the melting snows of the high mountains and gentle summer rains, they have a clarity and softness that caresses the soul.
Almost every day I have swum kilometer after kilometre through their welcoming waters.
Every one of these days has manifested a different quality of being.
From the soft peaty lakes of the foothills to the sharp high tarns of the peaks, each is unique in experience and ecology.
Here at the great Chiemsee autumn’s breath has already cooled the waters, the touch of it awakens the senses.
Soon it will be too cold for our sapient kind and we depart with memories of long summer days spent in their generous company.
Photo courtesy of the author.