Bavaria Magazine 2018 by Bayern Tourismus

TRADITIONALLY

YOUR HOLIDAY MAGAZINE 2018

DIFFERENT

THE ROUSING BEAUTY OF THE PARTNACH GORGE

Explore Bavariaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wild nature

ARISTOCRATIC BAVARIA

Find out how the Royals live

TRADITIONALLY DIFFERENT: Take a trip through Forests, Mountains and Royal Dreams and discover the Myths of Bavaria

Editorial

Contents

Cities & Culture

Dear Reader, Bavaria has long been associated with impressive landscapes, centuries-old customs and a very special attitude to life. The inhabitants of the Free State delight visitors from beyond its borders with their friendly manner and the way they still embrace ancient customs. These are passed down from one generation to the next – always authentic and yet re-interpreted. In other words, “traditionally different”.

u o y d i D ? know Direct flights to Memmingen Airport – your gateway to Bavaria! From London/Stansted you can fly with Ryanair up to five times a week to Memmingen Airport. From there you can easily reach by bus, train or rental car e.g. the well-known Neuschwanstein Castle near Füssen, the city of Munich and the beautiful Bavarian Alps with Oberstdorf and GarmischPartenkirchen. www.allgaeu-airport.com

cover picture: folk dances round the new Maypole in Eastern Bavaria – one of the many festivities shaping the Myth of Bavaria

The locals work hard and with great dedication to conserve their valuable heritage and pass their knowledge on – like Dr Margot Hamm. She leads visitors through the history of Bavaria in her exhibition “Forests, Mountains and Royal Dreams” in Ettal Abbey. It gives them a deeper insight into the imagination of the Fairy Tale King, Ludwig II. His castles continue to feature in the modern-day image of Bavaria. Alongside magnificent buildings, nature itself offers some great attractions, such as the Partnach Gorge in GarmischPartenkirchen. Narrow tunnels, high rock faces and a path that leads down 80 metres: On a guided tour led by gorge administrator Rudolf Achtner, visitors experience the many facets of the landscape close up and learn all about how it was formed. Maintaining traditions and enjoying Bavaria – these are the main priorities of the owners of the “Zoiglstuben” (pubs). Following an ancient custom dating back 600 years, they still serve the traditional Zoigl beer. After all, the way to a Bavarian’s heart is through the stomach.

Responsible: Dr. Martin Spantig, Managing Director

A glimpse behind the scenes of the Aristocratic Bavaria

Lindau: Historic charm on the banks of Lake Constance

Through Passau in traditional grab and to Altötting in royal footsteps

Franconian myths: What the night watchman knew

Bavaria is traditional, authentic and yet modern – as are the people who live there. Celebrate the typical traditions with the locals and experience a genuine piece of Bavaria, past and present.

Into the magical world of Christmas with Käthe Wohlfahrt and to the home of smoked beer in Bamberg

To see the best Bavaria has to offer, read on!

Culinary

Design: Spektrum 44 GmbH Sandstr. 37-39 80335 Munich, Germany www.spektrum44.de

Editing: Ippen Digital Media GmbH Paul-Heyse-Str. 2-4 80336 Munich, Germany www.ippen-digital-media.de

Past impressive waterfalls and 80 metres down: the Partnach Gorge in GarmischPartenkirchen

Alpenwelt Karwendel: A walker’s paradise with unique flora and fauna

Tour of the natural treasures of the Ammergau Alps

Ruhpolding: Experience trail and golf tournament under a white and blue sky

Walking through the ancient Alpine pastures of Inzell and Oberaudorf Bad Brückenau Bad Kissingen

Franconia

Printing: typwes Werbeagentur GmbH Leonhard-Strell-Str. 11 85540 Haar, Germany www.typwes.com

Sharing the tradition of Bavaria’s Biergärten

Bamberg

NUREMBERG Rothenburg o.d.T.

Eastern Bavaria REGENSBURG

Following a 600-year-old tradition, Zoigl beer is served to beer lovers from near and far

BAVARIA TOURISM wishes you happy browsing!

Imprint Publisher: BAYERN TOURISMUS Marketing GmbH Arabellastr. 17 81925 Munich, Germany Phone: +49 (0)89/2123970 tourismus@bayern.info www.bavaria.by

Forests, mountains and the imagination of the Fairy Tale King, Ludwig II.

Nature & Activity

Passau Landshut AUGSBURG

Allgäu / Bavaria-Swabia

Upper Bavaria

Altötting Burghausen Memmingen Ruhpolding Gut Ising Inzell Oberaudorf Bad Reichenhall Ammergau Alps / Ettal Lindau Alpenwelt Karwendel GarmischPartenkirchen

MUNICH

Cities & Culture

dances and music. Drama groups such as the Schlierseer Bauerntheater, novels by Ludwig Ganghofer and Ludwig Thoma, and the rustic “beer palaces” that sprang up in Paris and New York all conveyed the Myth of Bavaria with its characteristic mountain scenery. The people of Bavaria still know how to promote the image of their homeland: In the taverns and beer gardens, they celebrate their typical way of life.

TRADITIONALLY DIFFERENT

FORESTS, MOUNTAINS AND ROYAL DREAMS

View from Neuschwanstein Castle onto the Alpine scenery

In the Bavarian State Exhibition “Forests, Mountains and Royal Dreams – the Myth of Bavaria”, visitors to Ettal Abbey delve deep into Bavarian history. To mark the centenary of the Free State, Dr Margot Hamm and her team explore why the image of Bavaria is known around the world.

Dr Margot Hamm in the Ettal Abbey

Dr Hamm leads visitors deep into Bavaria’s natural past. The Free State dates back to 1918, but the cultural landscape was formed long before. First the Celts then the Romans settled in this region, digging fields and building roads. “They learned to tame the primitive forest – an extremely hostile environment,” explains Dr Hamm. Mankind transformed that primitive landscape, creating the familiar image of Bavaria today. Bavaria’s picturesque landscape spread around the globe from 1800 through the work of the artists who captured the mighty mountains, lakes and forests. In 1858, King Maximilian II travelled from Lindau to Berchtesgaden. His publication, “The Country and Folklore of Bavaria”, described local costumes,

Bavarian State Exhibition

Using impressive panoramas and Bavarian literature, Dr Hamm leads visitors through “Forests, Mountains and Royal Dreams”. The route leads to a pavilion, which provides a glimpse into the imagination of the Fairy Tale King, Ludwig II. “Visitors can experience his dreams for themselves,” explains the enthusiastic expert. The castles of Ludwig II are truly extraordinary – and they continue to play a role in Bavaria’s image today. Additionally, the route leads out into a garden with herbs, shrubs and alpine plants. There guests can marvel at the imposing mountain forests and the picturesque alpine meadows of the Free State. “The abstract interior is brought to life in the garden – with glorious views.” Every section conveys a piece of history. “Together that gives a sense of the Myth of Bavaria,” says Dr Hamm. “We lead our guests from darkness to light, from noise to peace, from contemplation to astonishment. Hopefully at the end people will say: “Wow, that was fantastic!”

Linderhof Palace and Park

Bavarian State Exhibition at Ettal Abbey: 03 May - 04 November 2018 daily from 9am to 6pm

More information www.bavaria.by/traditionally-different

left: like something out of “The Arabian nights” – the “King’s House on Schachen”

Cities & Culture

Marvel at the opulent lifestyle of days gone by, stroll in the royal atmosphere to your heart’s content and soak up the precious treasures of Bavarian history. Bavaria is rich in magnificent properties and traditions that still radiate a very special charm. With “Aristocratic Bavaria”, you do not need to be particularly cultured, romantic or curious to relish journeying into the world of Bavaria’s former rulers. Here you can let yourself be captivated by majestic castles, splendid parkland, hidden gems of courtly summer retreats and former royal suppliers. www.bavaria.by/aristocratic-bavaria

Sparkling

Ducal town with medieval flair

PASSAU REGION

POSCHINGER GLASSWORKS

LANDSHUT

Schloss Neuburg towers majestically above the River Inn. It is the largest and most important castle in the region with its splendid marble halls dating back to the Renaissance. From the baroque Garden of Paradise there is a fantastic view over the Bavarian-Upper Austrian region of the Inn valley. A river trip on one of the magnificent barges is a sheer pleasure.

In former times, Bavarian and French kings obtained their treasures from the Poschinger glassworks, which is now run by the 15th generation of the Freiherr von Poschinger family and is celebrating its 450th anniversary this year. The artistically designed items from this traditional glassworks are irresistible thanks to their noble splendour.

With its gorgeous arcade-lined court yard the town residence of Landshut belongs as the first Italian RenaissancePalace north of the Alps to one of the townʼs unique sights. Also the castle Trausnitz, the former seat of government of the Wittelsbachs, still reveals the great wealth of Landshutʼs dukes and makes manorial history come to life.

www.passauer-land.de/en

www.poschinger.de

www.landshut-tourismus.bayern

Margravial Opera House, Bayreuth

Jewel of the Renaissance era

The state spa and the secrets of kings and emperors

King Ludwig I Castle Park

BURGHAUSEN

STATE SPA BAD KISSINGEN

THE ROYAL SPA BAD BRÜCKENAU

Since 1934 this estate on Lake Chiemsee has been owned by the aristocratic Magalow family. In the hotel’s riding centre and in the restaurant “Goldener Pflug”, guests experience the history of the estate at first hand. Visitors can enjoy a break from everyday life in the modern Gut Ising Spa & Wellness fitness suite.

The symbol of Burghausen is the 1,051 metre long castle complex. From 1255 to 1503, the castle was the magnificent home of the House of Wittelsbach. The castle now houses three museums.

Arcades, promenades and Regentenbau. The magnificent buildings of the largest Bavarian state spa stand testiment to its days of splendour as a world-renowned spa. Famous people such as Empress Elisabeth of Austria (“Sisi”) and Imperial Chancellor Otto Fürst von Bismarck came to Bad Kissingen to take the waters. Just like today, the spa gardens banished the stresses and strains of everyday life and allowed guests to enjoy the privilege of some time to themselves.

www.gut-ising.de

www.visit-burghausen.com

Splendid atmosphere

History & tradition meet modernity and comfort

The longest castle in the world

BAVARIAN STATE SPA BAD REICHENHALL

GUT ISING

Built in 1900, the regal spa building embodies the magnificent tradition of the spa town. The stately open stairway, the artistic ceiling paintings and the exquisite chandeliers in this historic spa building are truly impressive. Festive balls, conferences, weddings and concerts are still held here today.

www.mice-bad-reichenhall.de

TIP: A particularly magnificent view of the castle and the colourful old town is afforded by a trip along the Salzach river.

TIP: The 1.5 hour guided city tour with the Grand Portier tour guide is a treat not to be missed. Once upon a time, he looked after the aristocratic spa guests – and nowadays he is able to disclose some fascinating secrets. www.badkissingen.de/en

The transition from nature to architecture is smooth, fitting harmoniously into the elegant park as a fairytale ensemble of historic buildings. Flower beds, tree cultures, and terraces in the King’s summer residence: The Castle Park gardener leads you through the historical park with royal flair.

www.staatsbad.de

Cities & Culture

On foot into Bavaria‘s heart Altötting – “From every house there is a path that leads to Altötting” is an old Bavarian saying. Ever since two healing miracles in the year 1489, every year thousands of pilgrims make their way on foot to the Bavarian national shrine. Accompanied by the tolling church bells, they come to the baroque Kapellplatz with its Chapel of Mercy. Opposite the miraculous image of the “Black Madonna of Altötting”, the hearts of Bavarian rulers rest in artfully designed urns, including that of the famous “Fairytale King”, Ludwig II.

Passau – Where the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet lies the baroque Old Town of Passau. Even today, the imposing squares and narrow alleyways reflect its history. Here, guests can sense the old charm of this Bavarian city.

The heart of the Bavarian Riviera

Guests can also experience Passau’s cultural history with events like the “Trachten- und Schützenumzug” (traditional costume and riflemen parade), the second largest parade in Bavaria which takes place during the Maidult (traditional folk festival in May). Richly embroidered dirndl aprons, elaborately decorated horses and typical Bavarian brass bands: In the DREI_FLÜSSE_STADT (City of Three Rivers), people celebrate as they have for generations. This special atmosphere of the Trachtenumzug captures people’s imaginations. The metal buttons on the marksmen’s jackets jingle. The horses‘ hooves clatter with the music. Spectators and participants, young and old – all join together to celebrate Bavarian culture.

The harbour entrance with the Bavarian Lion and the New Lighthouse

Lindau – In south-western Bavaria, on the shore of Lake Constance, lies Lindau. The Old Town, with its winding alleyways and rustic structures, is located on an island. Surrounded by the clear waters of the lake, guests enjoy the incomparable historic charm of the city and find the relaxation they seek in the surrounding area, with its beautiful orchards and green hills.

Today, ever more people are fascinated by not only the traditional pilgrimage. Modern forms of the pilgrim’s journey use bicycles and motorbikes. For holiday makers travelling by car, a five-day tour of the two religious centres in Upper Bavaria is a popular option. The circular route links Oberammergau, famous for its Passion Plays, with Altötting, the Bavarian national shrine. The royal palaces of King Ludwig II are well worth stopping at along the way.

19 – 21 May 2018 Whitsun weekend sees the arrival of many walking pilgrim groups 25 – 03 June 2018 Traditional Altötting fair and procession (folk festival)

Historical buildings can be discovered on nearly every corner of the Old Town’s lively squares. Passers-by would be remiss not to take note of the Gothic-style Old Town Hall with its beautifully painted facade. The word “Lindau” originally meant “the island where the linden trees grow”. From this island, the city developed to reach its modern size. The harbour entrance is particularly grand. Bavaria’s only lighthouse, which is 33 metres tall, has been guiding ships with its bright light since the mid-19th century.

Lindau in Lake Constance

More information Altötting Pilgrimage and Tourist Office www.altoetting.de

The “Trachten- und Schützenumzug” during the Maidult festival

All year long, guests in Lindau can look forward to numerous cultural events. A special exhibition of expressionist artist August Macke will take place from 24 March to 26 August 2018. During the Advent season, Lindau transforms into a festive Christmas island of light. Lindau’s Harbour Christmas Market makes Christmas seem just a little bit closer with lovingly decorated stands and Bavarian delicacies. Here, guests bid farewell to the fading year and look forward to their next visit to the historic city on the Bavarian Riviera.

The Bavarian Riviera: grand villas along the shoreline of Lake Constance

In Lindau there are many generous parks and gardens. In the Mediterranean “Stadtgarten” (City Garden) in summer, pedestrians can wander past palm trees and enjoy the view of the “Kleiner See”. Active types will enjoy a bicycle trip along the Bavarian Riviera. Here, around 30 imposing villas hug the shore. Wealthy families built them in the 19th century to enjoy the fresh air of summer. Today, their towers, bays, balconies and terraces continue to impress visitors.

More information Lindau Tourism www.lindau.de/en

both pictures: © Hari Pulko / Lindau Tourism

Experience Bavarian history up close

The “Trachten- and Schützenumzug” takes place on 29 April 2018. Meet the many facets of typical traditional dresses, marvel at the participants against the artistic backdrop of the Old Town of Passau and enjoy the festivities at the fairground!

More information Tourist-Information Passau www.tourism.passau.de

The arrival of walking pilgrim groups on Whitsun weekend

Cities & Culture

Live history with the night watchman

Welcome to World Heritage the “Christmas Site and home of Village” smoked beer

In the CITIES OF FRANCONIA, history comes colourfully to life, for example through tours with the night watchman or at historical festivals.

Käthe Wohlfahrt – People of all ages stand and stare with amazement! The “Christmas Village” of Käthe Wohlfahrt is full of brilliance and sparkle. In the historic district of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, visitors can find more than 30,000 decorative Christmas items all year round.

Besides its historic and romantic townscape, Bamberg is well known for its long tradition of brewing smoked beer. As opposed to other regions, two of the eleven Bamberg brewers – “Schlenkerla” and “Spezial” – have maintained their tradition: The malt is dried over an open fire, as it once was, instead of industrially. This gives the beer its fine, smoky aroma, which can only be authentically enjoyed here, freshly tapped from a wooden barrel.

Franconia – Halberd, horn and lantern: These are the tools of the night watchman of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, who takes guests with him on his evening rounds through the city. He leads them from the market square with its proud 14th-century mansions and the town hall to highlights such as the Church of St. James or the Burggasse with its grand panorama of the Tauber river valley.

Dinkelsbühl, another former imperial free city along the “Romantic Road”, also faced plunder and burning during the Thirty Years’ War, but this Franconian architectural jewel of the Middle Ages was ultimately saved as well: Here, a little girl walked out with other children to meet the approaching enemy and softened their hearts. Her story is told each year by the colourful “Kinderzeche Dinkelsbühl” with a festive performance, historical parade and wide variety of other events.

Plönlein in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

More information Franconian Tourist Board www.cities-of-franconia.com

Along the way he tells the story of Rothenburg, a free imperial city, the Thirty Years’ War and the importance the night watchmen once had: They warned citizens of enemies, thieves and fire. The Rothenburg night watchmen did their work well: Buildings from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period have survived in excellent condition. This makes the city a glorious stop along the “Romantic Road”, which runs from the Main River to the foot of the Alps.

Whether it be smoked beer truffles, bread or sauce – the spicy taste of Bamberg’s smoked beer provides culinary inspiration as well. At the brewery taverns and beer cellars, guests and locals alike celebrate the typical Bavarian spirit together. The “Christmas Village” in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Experience Bamberg beers with the BierSchmecker®Tour. This self-guided tour includes four speciality beers in typical brew pubs, smoke beer truffles, an original Bamberg beer stein and a bottle opener.

The doors of the “Christmas Village” open onto a magical world of Christmas wonder. Visitors gaze in awe at a white Christmas tree almost six metres high and hung with 1,700 glass baubles. As they stroll through this shopping experience, which covers more than 1,000 square metres, they marvel at the rare pieces lit up by thousands of little lights. Tiny Father Christmas figures, snow-covered gnomes and beautifully decorated Christmas tree ornaments line the route.

Imperial City Festival, Rothenburg ob der Tauber

However, Rothenburg ob der Tauber might have been laid to waste during the Thirty Years’ War had it not been for the “Rothenburg Master Draught”. As the story goes, the enemy troops could only be stopped from destroying the city because a Rothenburg citizen drank 3.25 litres of Frankenwein (Franconian wine) in one go. Each year, this story comes to life during “The

Bamberg – Built atop seven hills, with imposing churches and cosy half-timbered houses, noble squares and narrow alleyways – the fully intact medieval centre of Bamberg is multi-faceted and has been recognised as a World Heritage Site.

More information Bamberg Tourism Service www.bamberg.info

No wonder there is such a love of Christmas in Bavaria and throughout the whole of Germany. Many familiar decorations like Advent calendars were invented here. One of the best-known is the glass bauble. These came to prominence when the German Prince Albert married Queen Victoria in England in the 19th century. This marked the start of the bauble’s wonderful journey round the globe.

Master Draught of 1631” festival. Not only are the events reenacted in the historic theatre in the “Kaisersaal” (Emperor’s Hall) of the Town Hall: All across the city, you can meet mercenaries, jugglers, sutlers and ladies in splendid garments.

More information The “Christmas Village”, Käthe Wohlfahrt KG www.kaethe-wohlfahrt.com

Culinary

TRADITIONALLY DIFFERENT

A TEMPORARY PUB

When the sun is out, Zoigl beers can be enjoyed outside

The community brewers

In northeast Bavaria you can experience a very special beer tradition: that of the Zoiglstuben – temporary pubs serving a special local beer called Zoigl.

There used to be community breweries in 75 communities in the Oberpfalz. Now only five maintain the tradition of community brewing: Eslarn, Falkenberg, Mitterteich, Neuhaus and Windischeschenbach.

A Zoiglstube is a temporary pub for spending quality time with neighbours and friends. And one thing is ever-present: Zoigl – a bottom-fermented, unfiltered beer. The people of the Oberpfalz region have been brewing it for around 600 years in so-called “community breweries” (Kommunbrauhäuser). The citizens of a community hold the brewing rights, often linked to their houses or properties for generations.

As the Zoigl is unfiltered, the colour is very different from conventional light beers, but the flavour is greater. And every Zoigl brewer has their own recipe, so every brew has its own flavour.

The six-pointed star symbolizes the open Zoigl pub

Twenty Zoigl brewers now brew their beer in the five active community breweries. A number of pubs are also supplied with the popular cellar beer by the community or private brewers. Anyone who has ever sat in a Zoiglstube, listening to musicians and having a great time, knows that the tradition of the Zoiglstube is still deeply rooted in the Oberpfalz.

A bike may well be the best way to follow in the steps of the Zoigl: The Zoigl cycle trail links the former and active community breweries between Mitterteich in the north and Eslarn in the south. Time is not an issue: Just make sure you take the Zoigl calendar with you!

More information www.bavaria.by/traditionally-different

Bavaria’s beer gardens are particularly convivial in summer

Where tradition lives Bavaria’s beer gardens are unique worldwide – Under the shady boughs of the chestnut trees, guests sit and socialise at the long beer tables. All ages chat and raise their glasses. “Steckerlfisch” (fish on a stick) and “Brathendl” (roast chicken) aromas waft by. Music and laughter fill the air. Here, people come to meet and experience the Bavarian way of life up close.

Brewing takes a day, then the brewer takes his Zoigl to his cellar in a large cask, where he ferments it with yeast. It can be sampled after four to six weeks. The Zoigl calendar shows who is currently serving beer. Alternatively, the Zoigl star will tell you where to go. This six-pointed star – the brewers’ guild emblem – is hung on the gables. Each Zoigl brewer usually serves their beer for one long weekend a month.

Lived tradition: hearty meals under leafy canopies

The green roofs of the beer gardens have a long tradition. Originally, beer brewers planted chestnut trees over their storage cellars. Why? The shade of the dense chestnut leaves cooled the beer in the wooden barrels. Today, guests from all over the world treasure these lovely trees and the privilege dining in a beer garden. Many families love to bring their own food from home. They feast together at the rustic tables. For the adults, there’s a “Maß” or a freshly tapped Bavarian wheat beer, and a pretzel for the children – and a cosy day at the beer garden begins. Many beer gardens also have small playgrounds. Children can climb, slide and enjoy themselves. Everyone, big and small, is well looked after. At the weekend, traditional brass bands often provide entertainment. For international guests, this experience makes their visit extra special.

especially thirsty. Then, a naturally cloudy cellar beer or a refreshing pale lager is just the thing. In the beer garden, you can always find a lovely little spot to enjoy a tangy, aromatic “Maß” and traditional foods on mild summer evenings with your family and friends.

In May, the beer garden season in Bavaria begins. To celebrate the occasion fittingly, guests like to drink a “Maibock”. This strong beer has a powerful, full-bodied taste, yet boasts a sprightly character. Later in the year, when high summer rolls in and the air between the houses shimmers with the heat, guests become

More information Bayerischer Brauerbund e. V. www.bayrisch-bier.de

Nature & Activity

TRADITIONALLY DIFFERENT

“ GOOD SPIRIT ” OF THE GORGE

An all year round experience for visitors

The air is cold and damp. Steep rock faces stretch high into the sky. At their feet, the wild, turquoise Partnach River winds its way through the narrow ravine. The cultural landscape of the Partnach Gorge is shaped by the wild energy of the water.

Gorge administrator Rudolf Achtner

pure nature.” He has an overview of all the safety work that is carried out in the Partnach Gorge. He never knows what to expect each morning. Debris can accumulate overnight in the almost 700m long and 80m wide gorge, and could pose a risk to visitors. He and his colleagues regularly walk the paths and check for fallen rocks or branches.

The Partnach Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen has been accessible to visitors since 1912, when it was declared a natural monument. It now attracts over 300,000 visitors each year to the narrow paths and tunnels through the high rocky cliffs. Below them, the turbulent Partnach rushes past – above them, water drips from the rocks. The Partnach Gorge is open to visitors all year round, offering welcome shade in summer and bizarre icicle formations in winter. Hikers can enjoy the many beautiful areas around the gorge – and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

19th-century timber drifting in the Partnach Gorge

Long before tourism, the Partnach Gorge played an important role in the economy of the region: From 1886 the gorge was used for timber drifting. When gales uprooted hundreds of trees above the gorge, the timber was sawn into pieces and thrown into the Partnach River. Marked with the “house mark” of the timber owner, it drifted down towards the valley. This dangerous work was the only way of transporting the timber from such an inaccessible region.

Rudolf Achtner is the gorge administrator and is fascinated by its myriad aspects: “The gorge changes with the time of day and the weather. On sunny days I feel as if I’m in the Grand Canyon – and after days of non-stop rain I get a sense of wild,

When to visit

Today, the Partnach Gorge is a popular visitor attraction. The natural spectacle with its countless waterfalls is at its best early in the morning or late in the evening when few people are about, although the most beautiful light is at midday: “When the sun shines directly into the ravine, the gorge is illuminated with the most beautiful colours of the rainbow,” enthuses the gorge administrator.

The “sweet spot” in Garmisch-Partenkirchen Not far from the Partnach Gorge, Chocolaterie Amélie can be found in the historic Ludwigstraße. Surrounded by frescoes telling the story of the town and its inhabitants, as you watch the pralines being created behind the glass walls you can go on a journey of discovery, following the cocoa bean all the way through to the final chocolate production process.

Rudolf Achtner is very aware of his role in conveying the tradition and history of the Partnach Gorge, and has no plans to stop anytime soon.

www.gapa.de / www.chocolaterie-gap.de More information www.bavaria.by/traditionally-different

left: the rousing beauty of the Partnach Gorge

Valley of “Buckelwiesen” and Bavarian treats

Germany’s youngest nature park The Graswang Valley within the Ammergau Alps

The “Buckelwiesen” between Mittenwald, Krün and Wallgau

goat cheese or goat’s milk ice cream await gourmets. For meal times, the innkeepers exclusively serve local and self-produced dishes. Tip: Take a look at the handmade hay cushions, produced right there on the farm. They are filled with dried plants directly from the “Buckelwiesen”. A souvenir to ensure sweet dreams back home.

Regional delicacies by the wayside

Hungry hikers can look forward to the Bavarian delicacies served along the “Buckelwiesen”. The idyllic mountain inn, Goasalm, is particularly well-loved by hikers. In the shop, specialities such as home-made

With 288 square kilometres, the Ammergau Alps is the largest nature conservation area in Bavaria. Walkers can encounter some impressive wildlife: On guided tours they may spot beavers, ibex and golden eagles. The damp ground of the Ettal Weidmoos provides the perfect habitat for many threatened species of toad and butterfly. The area is also home to many rare plants, including various orchids, the birds-eye primrose (Primula farinosa), fellwort (Swertia perennis) and the large pink (Dianthus superbus).

The Gröblalm inn also offers special treats. The junior chef of the farm is a confectioner and lovingly crafts tasty cream puffs. Hikers should also try a schnapps here. It comes from the in-house distillery and is just the thing to revive tired legs.

The approximately 12 kilometre long hike through the “Buckelwiesen” rises 114 metres past thick forests, green pastures and glistening lakes. In spring, hikers can enjoy the deep blue Gentian and in summer, the scent of wild herbs. On this gentle tour, they can also marvel at the imposing view of the surrounding mountains. Rugged cliff formations, wooded mountainsides and snow-topped peaks on the horizon will make the heart of any mountain lover leap. The fascinating geotope is a feast for the eyes

More information Alpenwelt Karwendel Mittenwald Krün Wallgau Tourismus GmbH www.alpenwelt-karwendel.de/en

To conserve the cultural landscape of the Ammergau Alps, locals take good care of the grassland. They do not use fertilizers and only mow it once a year – by hand. For the rest of the year it is grazed by cattle. Many farmers send the milk from their cows to Ettal where it is made into cheese. A tour of the show dairy in Ettal gives visitors a close-up view of how local cheese is produced, along with a chance to taste the finished product. The Ammergau Alps have other natural treasures too: Guided by biologists and herbalists, holidaymakers can discover the healing power of plants. The region is also famous for its high moorland with mountain pines. Visitors can explore this in the form of a moor treatment or on discovery trails in Bad Bayersoien and Bad Kohlgrub. Here they can see how important the moorland is for flora and fauna as well as for the climate – a natural treasure in the Ammergau Alps Nature Park.

The “Buckelwiesen” are comprised of thousands of individual hills of up to one metre in height. As relics of the Stone Age, today they offer a home to numerous rare plants and animals. They are traditionally mowed with a scythe and not fertilised. This helps create a unique habitat.

Walking in the heart of Bavaria’s cultural landscape

Ammergau Alps Nature Park – Green meadows, rare plant species, magnificent mountains – visitors to the Ammergau Alps can discover the natural diversity of the Alpine region. This area of 22,738 hectares offers a truly fascinating landscape. It was designated a nature park in summer 2017 – the 19th in Bavaria.

Alpenwelt Karwendel – At the foot of the cliffs of the Karwendel mountain range, cattle graze in green pastures. The sun bursts out from behind mountain peaks. In the midst of this impressive alpine scenery, guests wander through the “Buckelwiesen” (hummock meadows) and discover a unique natural landscape as only Bavaria can offer.

Nature & Activity

Preparations are currently in full swing for the Oberammergau Passion Plays, which will be performed in 2020. Every 10 years this town recreates the tale of the life and death of Jesus Christ. www.passionplay-oberammergau.de/en

More information Ammergauer Alpen GmbH www.ammergauer-alpen.com

At the show dairy in Ettal

Nature & Activity

Active high and low

Hiking, cycling, recuperating ...

Ruhpolding – Imposing mountains reach toward the sky. In this idyllic landscape, nestled between wide, green grasslands, lies the Bavarian parish of Ruhpolding. Even from afar, guests can see the historic tower of the parish church, St. Georg. Numerous hikers make their way here to see the romantic-style Madonna inside. And the area’s many other mountain trails offer their own special highlights: The tours lead through blooming meadows, past grazing cattle, and up into the mountains. After reaching for example the mountain Rauschberg, guests can enjoy the “Holzgeisterweg”, an interactive nature- and adventure trail dealing playfully with the topics protection forests and deadwood by leading to the ‘good spirits’, legends and myths of the Ruhpolding valley.

Inzell – One step, and another – the trail leads hikers through a rustic alpine landscape. From here, they can enjoy the view of the Inzell valley below. The scent of fresh herbs and lush grass hangs in the air. All is hushed. On the green meadows, the cows graze quietly. On reaching the summit cross, the members of the meadow hiking party are treated to a typical Bavarian meal – they have earned it! With the view of the landscape, any meal tastes three times as good.

Those preferring the valley can spend their time at the 18 holes of the Ruhpolding Golf Course. Surrounded by the natural splendour of the region, players can enjoy their game in the open air. A glance past the green is also a treat. Well-protected beneath a massive linden tree stands a little green

Ruhpolding Golf course

beehive. Richard Jany, the head greenkeeper at the Ruhpolding Golf Course, is also a beekeeper for 25 years and lovingly cares for his charges. “Only the best for my ladies”, he says with a wink. He has about 40 colonies in all. In summer, his bees leave the hive up to 13 times a day to gather nectar. For a single jar of honey, they fly twice around the Earth. On their way from primroses to linden flowers, they pollinate a wide variety of crops and wild plants, making them especially important for the nature. And the inhabitants of the Alps do benefit as well: Thanks to the bees, the plants bloom gloriously and yield a rich harvest. The roughly 110 apple, pear and plum trees surrounding Richard Jany’s golf course also fruit abundantly, much to the delight of the guests. Between games they treat themselves to fruit directly from the tree – a gift of nature in Ruhpolding.

More information Tourist Info Ruhpolding www.ruhpolding.com

Ruhpolding is surrounded by astonishing nature

Taste Bavarian tradition

View from the mountain Brünnstein

Oberaudorf – Between Wilder Kaiser mountain range and the Mangfall Mountains lies Oberaudorf, nestled in green hills. The Inn river winds through the valley. Guests spend their holidays here between imposing mountain peaks, waterfalls and the ruins of medieval castles. The mountain Brünnstein rises between green hills of forest and grasslands. The ascent along well-marked roads passes through colourful meadowlands. Suddenly, the 1,634-metre high peak bursts through the treetops. Reaching the top, guests enjoy the view all the way to Wilder Kaiser mountain range and and the far off, high glacier mountains – box seats for the Alpine foothills.

Resting with a splendid view

Whether guests are on foot as a group with a mountain guide, or exploring the Inzell and the Chiemgau region their own by bicycle – on the many hiking trails, various nature’s treasures can be discovered, such as 600-year-old trees and one of the last large moorlands of the Chiemgau Alps. During herb hikes, guests gather the precious seasonings growing by the wayside. Afterwards they process them into traditional salves and aromatic salts. A perfect memento of the natural splendour of Bavaria.

The wild, foaming waters of the Tatzelwurm waterfalls are sure to fascinate. Over two cliff ledges, they plunge 95 metres into the depths. A shimmering rainbow hovers in the air overhead: a fascinating piece of natural theatre. On the Grafenloch trail, hikers go on a journey back to the Middle Ages: The imposing ruined walls of a knightly “cavern castle” are still visible here. Guest marvel at the spectacular vertical cliff setting.

More information Inzeller Touristik GmbH www.inzell.de

More information Tourist-Information Oberaudorf www.oberaudorf.de

Nature & Activity

ARISTOCRATIC BAVARIA – TAKE A TRIP BACK IN TIME... ... to the world of the Bavarian nobility. Discover aristocratic properties and traditions that still exude a special magic today: hidden gems of courtly summer retreats, the superlative products of royal purveyors to the court, palaces and castles for fabulous parties or relaxing holidays.

The castle of Burghausen is the world’s longest castle, measuring over one kilometre in length. It bears witness to over a thousand years of history and is the centrepiece of any visit here. The evenings in Burghausen can be spent relaxing in the idyllic Biergärten and bars of the old town. Hotel Burgblick, on the banks of the river Salzach with fantastic views of the castle and the colourful facades of the historic old town, offers a new spa area with saunas, steam room and a roof terrace. Pampering guaranteed! www.visit-burghausen.com

BURGHAUSEN – THE PEARL OF SALZACH & THE WORLD’S LONGEST CASTLE