Beierse Alpen & Deutsche Alpenstraße

Passau is located at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz, giving the city its distinctive nickname, the Dreiflüssestadt (Three Rivers City). Strolling through the narrow streets of the Altstadt, the Baroque architecture stands out, shaped by Italian masters after major fires. St. Stephen's Cathedral dominates the cityscape and houses one of the largest cathedral organs in the world. From Veste Oberhaus fortress, you have a sweeping view of the distinct colours of the three rivers as they merge here. The waterfront promenades invite a stroll while river cruise ships constantly ply the Danube. In the immediate vicinity of the city, you'll find rolling hills that mark the transition to the Bavarian Forest. The combination of historic squares and proximity to the water makes it a tranquil stopping point for those following the course of the river. Small galleries and artisan shops in Höllgasse create a lively atmosphere in the old town.

Oberstdorf is nestled in a wide valley, surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Allgäu Alps. The country's southernmost municipality marks a natural cul-de-sac where the mountain sides ascend steeply. Take the cable car to reach the summit of the Nebelhorn, where a panoramic view of hundreds of mountain peaks awaits. In the valley, the Breitachklamm carves deep into the rocks, creating a spectacular display of water and stone. Hikers will find an extensive network of trails leading through flower-filled alpine meadows and past crystal-clear streams. The village itself retains an authentic Bavarian atmosphere, with wooden facades and inviting squares. The combination of high mountains and accessible nature makes this place a tranquil retreat for those looking to explore the heights.

At the foot of the Alps lies Füssen, a city with a historic character and direct access to the famous royal castles. The white Neuschwanstein Castle towers high above the forested hills, offering a fairytale view from the Marienbrücke. In the immediate vicinity, the shores of Lake Forggensee invite visitors to relax by the water with views of the surrounding mountain peaks. Hikers will find numerous paths here that lead through the vast forests and along the crystal-clear Lake Alpsee. The nearby Hohenschwangau Castle tells the history of the Bavarian royal family in a more intimate setting. The cobblestone streets of Füssen's old town are filled with colorful facades and local crafts. Thanks to its location near the Austrian border, this is a natural crossroads of mountain landscapes and cultural history.

At the foot of Germany's highest mountain lie the crystal-clear waters of Lake Eibsee. This lake is known for its striking turquoise color and the eight small islands nestled within its waters. A walk along the Eibsee Circular Trail offers constantly changing perspectives of the surrounding peaks of the Wetterstein Mountains. In the early morning, the Zugspitze is often perfectly reflected in the ripple-free water surface. Visitors can rent boats on-site to explore the coves from the water. The dense forests surrounding its shores create a sheltered and serene atmosphere in every season. On warm summer days, the clear mountain water invites visitors to a refreshing dip after an active day in the mountains. Due to its direct proximity to the cable car to the summit, the location serves as a natural haven of tranquility in an alpine landscape.

Situated on an island in Lake Constance, this city offers a unique combination of maritime atmosphere and historic architecture. Lindau's harbour entrance is marked by a statue of the Bavarian Lion and a stone lighthouse. Strolling through the narrow streets, visitors pass the medieval Mangturm with its striking tiled roof. From the quays, you can look out over the shimmering water towards the snow-capped mountain peaks in the distance. The shores are ideal for leisurely cycle tours along the lake or a visit to the nearby vineyards. In the evenings, the lights of the promenade reflect in the water, creating a serene atmosphere. It serves as a strategic base for exploring the border region with Austria and Switzerland.

In the deep gorge of the Partnachklamm, the water powerfully carves its way through the rock faces of the Wetterstein Mountains. Hikers follow a narrow path that runs directly alongside the turbulent river, with tunnels and galleries carved into the limestone. Even in summer, it remains pleasantly cool here due to the constant mist and the shade of the high walls. From the Eiserne Brücke (Iron Bridge), you look almost seventy meters straight down into the depths of the gorge. The contrast between the turquoise water and the dark rocks creates an impressive spectacle. In winter, the waterfalls along the walls often transform into enormous ice sculptures, giving the surroundings a completely different atmosphere. This natural passage offers a unique experience for those who want to witness the power of the elements up close. The path is well-maintained, but sturdy footwear is necessary due to the damp ground.

The German Alpine Road winds for hundreds of kilometers along the impressive mountain peaks of Southern Germany. From the shimmering shores of Lake Constance in the west, the route takes you eastward through rolling alpine meadows and dense forests. Along the way, you pass iconic mountain ranges such as the mighty Zugspitze and the rugged peaks of the Bavarian Alps. The route offers numerous opportunities to stop at crystal-clear mountain lakes and historic villages with richly decorated facades. You experience ultimate freedom here as the road winds its way up through narrow valleys and over panoramic passes. The combination of rugged nature and Bavarian hospitality makes this journey a unique experience in the mountains. Hikers and nature lovers will find challenging trails and breathtaking viewpoints along the entire route. It is a route where every bend offers a new perspective on the impressive landscape of the region.

Tegernsee is nestled in the Bavarian Alps, offering a classic combination of deep blue water and green mountain meadows. Its shores are adorned with charming villages featuring richly decorated facades and balconies overflowing with flowers. The Wallbergbahn quickly takes you to a panoramic viewpoint for sweeping views of the surrounding peaks. At the historic Kloster Tegernsee, you can experience the local atmosphere in its famous brewery. Water sports enthusiasts and hikers will find numerous trails and recreational opportunities right on the water. The region is renowned for its high-quality relaxation and authentic Bavarian hospitality. It's an ideal place to slow down amidst an impressive mountain landscape.

The Bavarian capital offers a unique mix of tradition and modern culture at the foot of the Alps. Centrally located, you'll find Marienplatz with its impressive town hall, where the carillon attracts spectators daily. The iconic Frauenkirche, with its distinctive dome-shaped towers, has dominated the skyline of the historic city centre for centuries. For relaxation, many flock to the Englischer Garten, one of the world's largest urban parks, featuring its famous surfing spot on the Eisbach. At the Viktualienmarkt, you can sample local delicacies and soak in the convivial atmosphere of the surrounding beer gardens. World-class museums and stately boulevards invite you to extensive strolls through the various districts. A visit to the city feels like a dive into the rich history of Southern Germany. Furthermore, the proximity of the Isar offers ample opportunities for recreation along the riverbanks.

This expansive lake at the foot of the Alps is known as the Bavarian Sea and offers sweeping views of the nearby mountain peaks. Herrenwörth Island is home to Schloss Herrenchiemsee, a lavish palace modeled after Versailles. Visitors reach the various islands via regular ferry services that depart from towns like Prien am Chiemsee. The car-free Fraueninsel attracts guests with a historic monastery and a picturesque fishing village where smoked fish is a local specialty. Along its shores, various cycling paths and hiking trails extend, leading through reed beds and past public swimming beaches. The proximity to the mountains makes a cable car trip to the Kampenwand a popular activity for panoramic views of the region. In the evenings, the setting sun often reflects on the calm water, with the Alps silhouetted in the background.

In the farthest southeast of Bavaria lies one of the most impressive mountain landscapes of the Alps. The emerald-green Königssee is deeply nestled between steep rock faces, almost appearing Scandinavian with its fjord-like character. A boat trip across the crystal-clear water passes by the iconic red domes of the pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä. High above the valley, the striking Watzmann towers, a beloved massif for hikers and mountaineers. For a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks and the valley, the Kehlsteinhaus is an impressive historical site at a great height. The surrounding forests and alpine meadows of the national park offer numerous routes through a pristine natural area. Here you experience the power of the high Alps in an environment where tradition and nature are closely intertwined.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is nestled at the foot of Germany's highest mountain and exudes an authentic alpine atmosphere. In Partenkirchen's historic streets, colourful Lüftlmalerei adorn the facades, while Garmisch has a more sophisticated feel. Take the cable car to the summit of the Zugspitze for panoramic views of hundreds of mountain peaks. For those with a head for heights, the suspended viewing platform Alpspix offers a spectacular glimpse into the depths. The impressive Olympiaschanze recalls the sporting history of this twin town and remains an eye-catcher in the landscape. Hikers and nature lovers will find an extensive network of trails through the surrounding valleys and forests. After an active day in the mountains, the inviting terraces and traditional Bavarian Gasthöfe invite you to relax. The combination of sporting challenges and cultural traditions makes this an unmissable stop in the Bavarian Alps.