There must be something special about the Bavarian Alps, because even though their area takes up merely 1.5% of Germany — they’re usually the first thing to come to mind when talking about Germany.
Perhaps this is why the Bavarian Alps are said to be “one of the most scenic places in Central Europe.” Foolish mortals, why would anyone say such a thing?
They are one of the most scenic places in the world. ;-)
The Bavarian Alps stretch for some 200km (124mi) along the Austrian border, from the Ammergau Alps in the west to the Chiemgau Alps in the east.
Within this slice of mountainous Heaven are classy spa towns like Füssen in the west and Freilassing in the east; scenic routes like the German Alpine Road and Via Claudia Augusta; castles like Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau; and more outdoor recreational activities than you could do in one season.
And I wouldn’t dream of not mentioning places like the Forggensee and the Lake Tegernsee.
The most interesting part of the Bavarian Alps, and which most people don’t realize, is that they’re not the tallest mountain peaks. The highest point is the Zugspitze at “just” 2,962 meters or 9,718 feet, but their topography of just jutting straight up over the level landscape gives them a real imposing stature.
Who knew we Germans would have a flair for the dramatic? Maybe this is why we have a flair for the dramatic. ;-)
Talk about dramatic, wait until you get a look at the Alps from the cable car ride in Bayrischzell. If you’re not a skier, this is one of the best ways to get up to the top.
Skiing is one of the best activities to do in the Alps, with the season running from December to April. That’s like five months of swishing and swooshing down the mountainside with the call of the Alpenhorn the distance.
Careening down the Alps wouldn’t be a good time to get distracted by the ladies in their dirndls, Gentlemen. The same goes for you, Ladies — no checking out the guys in their lederhosen. ;-)
If you’re going to do that, you’re best off heading to small alpine villages like Benediktbeuern. Just don’t do it at the 8th century Benedictine Abbey — doesn’t seem appropriate, does it?
Of course, winter isn’t the only time of year to enjoy the Bavarian Alps. Summer gives you ample time to try paragliding, hiking, and canoeing (to say the least). And with a summer season that runs from May to November, there’s certainly plenty of time to do it all.
Well, that is if you aren’t distracted by the dramatic views.
