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Exploring the Scenic German Alpine Road

A Journey through Bavaria's Natural Splendor

Embarking on a picturesque adventure through the German Alpine Road is an experience that promises awe-inspiring landscapes, charming towns, and a glimpse into Bavaria’s rich cultural heritage. In the embrace of the majestic peaks of the Alps, this iconic route takes you through breathtaking scenery and offers a myriad of outdoor activities, like walking, hiking, cycling, swimming in some of the most beautiful alpine lakes, and many more. In this blog post, I will recount a memorable six-day journey along the German Alpine Road, where I explored the regions around Füssen and the captivating wonders of the Berchtesgaden National Park. Along the way from Füssen to Berchtesgaden, I also explored some other picturesque towns and scenic locations. 

Obersee

My starting point

My journey began in the delightful town of Nesselwang, where my hotel for the first few days was located – The Explorer Hotel Neuschwanstein, a fantastic base for outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and cyclists. Nestled close enough to charming Füssen, this hotel provided me with the perfect blend of comfort and proximity to the region’s attractions. From here, I set out to explore the captivating surroundings.

Neuschwanstein Castle
Neuschwanstein Castle

Neuschwanstein Castle

As one of the main attractions in the area, Neuschwanstein Castle immediately captivated me during my stay at the Explorer Hotel Neuschwanstein. Nestled amidst the breathtaking Bavarian Alps, this iconic castle beckoned visitors from all over the world. Eager to explore its splendor, I set out on the numerous hiking trails that not only offered magnificent views but also provided glimpses of the castle itself. Among these trails, the most easily accessible route led me to the famous Marienbrücke bridge. Embarking on a leisurely walk of 30 to 45 minutes, I was rewarded with an unforgettable vantage point. From there, I stood in awe of Neuschwanstein Castle’s fairytale-like architecture, set against the backdrop of the picturesque landscape.

Nesselwang
Weissensee
Alpsee
Schwansee

Beautiful lakes

In the vicinity of Füssen, there are numerous beautiful lakes that offer an idyllic retreat for nature lovers. These lakes provide a perfect opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquility of the surroundings, with breathtaking landscapes and a variety of activities to enjoy. Weissensee, Alpsee, and Schwansee are among the notable lakes in the area, each possessing its own unique charm. Taking leisurely walks along the shores of these lakes allows one to fully embrace the serene ambiance, with the clear waters reflecting the natural beauty that surrounds them. These peaceful settings also offer an inviting respite, providing a chance to take a refreshing swim and cool off during warmer days. Moreover, the lakes serve as a starting point for longer hikes, allowing nature enthusiasts to venture further and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll, a rejuvenating swim, or an adventurous hike, these beautiful lakes provide ample opportunities to connect with nature, find moments of relaxation, and create cherished memories.

Weissensee
Weissensee

Schrecksee hike

One evening, I embarked on a fulfilling hike to the Alpine lake of Schrecksee. It took three hours to reach the lake and an additional two hours for the return hike. The timing of my visit coincided with the period when the snow was melting, adding an enchanting touch to the scenery. Upon arrival, the sight of the melting snow on the lake, surrounded by majestic mountain peaks, created a mesmerizing scene. The serene beauty of Schrecksee in this setting made the hike truly unforgettable.

Schrecksee
Schrecksee
Schrecksee

Füssen town

Between the hikes and walks, I also took the time to explore the charming city of Füssen.

Füssen
Füssen
Füssen

 Imbued with a rich history that dates back centuries, Füssen offers more than just natural beauty. I wandered through its streets, soaking in the historical ambiance and admiring the well-preserved architecture. I discovered the fascinating fact about the ancient Via Claudia Augusta, a Roman road that once connected Italy to the Danube River and passes through the town. This blend of history and culture made my walk around Füssen a delightful addition to my exploration of the region.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen

From Füssen region to the breathtaking Berchtesgaden National Park

Transitioning from the Füssen region to the breathtaking Berchtesgaden National Park was a seamless journey along the German Alpine Road. Along the way, the road led me through picturesque towns, captivating mountain views, and stunning lakes

Schliersee

Berchtesgaden National Park

Arriving at the Explorer Hotel Berchtesgaden, I found the perfect home base for my exploration of the national park. The hotel’s ideal location provided an excellent starting point for hikes and trips within the park, ensuring convenient access to its natural wonders and cultural treasures. With the Explorer Hotel as my hub, I was ready to embark on an adventure filled with unforgettable experiences in the heart of Berchtesgaden National Park.

Königssee
Obersee

Königssee and Obersee

On my first day exploring Berchtesgaden National Park, I embarked on a mesmerizing boat trip on the picturesque Königssee. Starting in the morning, the tourist boat is the easiest way to navigate the lake and enjoy its stunning beauty. What fascinated me even more was the absence of roads for cars connecting the two sides of the lake. Instead, visitors have the option to either take the boat or traverse using long panoramic hiking trails available for experienced hikers. This unique feature adds to the untouched charm and serenity of the national park, allowing hikers to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. As part of the round boat trip, I had the opportunity to disembark at another alpine gem, the Obersee lake, and embark on a scenic hike alongside the tranquil waters. The hiking trail offered a rewarding experience, surrounded by pristine alpine scenery. At the end of the Obersee lake, I indulged in the authentic flavors of Berchtesgaden National Park at the charming Fischunkelalm, where I savored their homemade dairy products. This day of exploration provided a perfect blend of boat rides, scenic walks, and the chance to savor the culinary delights of the region.

Obersee
Saint Bartholomew's Church at Königssee
Obersee

Jenner Cable car

On another adventurous day in Berchtesgaden National Park, I decided to explore the hiking trails around the Königssee. Opting for an exciting route, I took the cable car to Jenner, which provided an exhilarating ascent to the mountaintop. From there, I began my descent, hiking back to the starting point. The trail gifted me with breathtaking views of the pristine alpine scenery and the shimmering lake of Königssee below. Each step offered a new perspective, showcasing the grandeur of the surrounding peaks and the tranquil beauty of the lake.

Jenner views

Hintersee it's a must

Not stopping there, I also made a point to visit the enchanting Hintersee lake, tucked away in a picturesque setting. As I strolled along its tranquil shores, I found myself captivated by the reflections of the surrounding mountains mirrored on the serene waters. A true paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Hintersee

Photogenic Maria Gern

In addition to exploring the lakes, I made sure to visit the photogenic Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern, a charming pilgrimage church nestled amidst the alpine landscape. Its idyllic location and stunning architecture made it a serene spot for contemplation and reflection. 

Wallfahrtskirche Maria Gern

Relaxing Wimbachklamm gorge

With still some time left in the morning, I embarked on a memorable walk through the Wimbachklamm gorge. This natural wonder showcased the sheer power of water, with its rushing streams and towering rock formations creating a captivating spectacle. The well-maintained walkway allowed me to safely venture through this breathtaking gorge, providing ample photo opportunities and a chance to connect with the raw beauty of nature.

Wimbachklamm gorge

Before heading home ...

As my journey in Berchtesgaden National Park drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the incredible experiences and unforgettable memories I had collected. From the boat trips on the lakes to the breathtaking hikes through the alpine wonderland, this picturesque region had captured my heart. The combination of pristine nature, cultural treasures, and culinary delights made the German Alpine Road a destination like no other. As I bid farewell to this enchanting place, I carried with me a profound sense of connection to the natural world, and a desire to return and discover even more German hidden gems in the future.

Views above Königssee
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