The best walks and hikes in Upper Bavaria

Embark on an easy hike around the stunning Eibsee Loop Trail, a picturesque route that offers continuous views of Lake Eibsee's crystal-clear waters and its charming small islands. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) path is generally flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for most. You will gain a gentle 277 feet (84 metres) in elevation, and the entire loop typically takes around 1 hour and 54 minutes to complete. As you walk, you'll pass through dense forests, discover quiet bays, and cross wooden footbridges, with the majestic Zugspitze often reflecting beautifully on the lake's surface. Keep an eye out for the Kotbach Waterfall, adding to the trail's natural charm.

This easy loop is suitable for all fitness levels and families, providing a relaxed outdoor experience. You will find benches conveniently placed along the route for resting and enjoying the scenery. For refreshments, the Eibsee Hotel and Eibsee Pavilion restaurant are located at the start and end of the loop, offering a perfect spot to refuel. Consider visiting during the warmer months, from May to October, when you can also enjoy swimming and boating on the lake.

The Eibsee Loop Trail is renowned for its unique geological setting, nestled in the Wetterstein mountains. The lake itself is famous for its jewel-toned hues, which shift with the light, and the numerous small islands that dot its surface, creating a distinctive landscape. This trail stands out in the region for its combination of easy accessibility and dramatic alpine views, making it a popular choice for those seeking a tranquil yet visually rewarding outdoor adventure near Germany's highest peak.

Embark on a moderate hike through the Partnach Gorge, where you will navigate paths carved into sheer rock walls with the river rushing below. The trail then ascends, opening up to expansive alpine scenery and views of the surrounding peaks. This loop covers 4.0 miles (6.4 km) and involves an elevation gain of 617 feet (188 metres), typically completed in about 1 hour and 56 minutes.

Begin your journey from the Garmisch Olympia Ski Stadium, following the clear path towards the gorge entrance. Although the route through the gorge is well-maintained, it is essential to wear sturdy shoes with good grip, as sections can be wet and slippery. On the return leg via Graseck, you will find opportunities for refreshment at various mountain farms and hotels.

This trail showcases the impressive geological forces that shaped the Partnach Gorge, a significant natural landmark in the region. The experience offers a unique blend of dramatic, enclosed canyon landscapes and the contrasting open vistas of the Bavarian Alps.

Embark on a moderate 7.3-mile (11.8 km) hike through the dramatic Höllentalklamm, also known as Hell Valley Gorge, a journey that takes around 4 hours and 43 minutes to complete. You will experience a significant elevation gain of 2061 feet (628 metres) as you navigate well-maintained walkways, wooden bridges, and rocky steps, with paths etched into the gorge walls. The Hammersbach river roars through deep ravines, creating numerous waterfalls and showcasing magnificent turquoise waters. You will pass through electrically lit tunnels and along narrow cliffside ledges, offering a constantly changing and adventurous landscape. After exiting the gorge, the path opens up to reveal panoramic views of the Wetterstein mountains, including the towering Zugspitze, Waxensteine, and Riffelwände, especially as you approach the Höllentalangerhütte.

This trail is generally considered medium-difficult, requiring good fitness and sure-footedness. Sturdy, non-slip hiking shoes are essential, as sections within the Höllentalklamm can be wet and slippery, especially after rain. The initial approach from Hammersbach is an easy gravel path, but the gorge itself involves rocky steps and narrow ledges. While not technically difficult, it is less suitable for families with small children under six years old. The cool, moist climate within the gorge offers a refreshing experience, particularly on hot summer days.

The Höllentalklamm offers an immersive and thrilling journey, characterized by its rugged passages and unique tunnels carved into the rock. The Höllentalangerhütte, a modern mountain hut renovated in 2015, provides food, drinks, and overnight stays in a fantastic location. This hut also serves as a crucial base for more challenging alpine climbs, including the famous Höllentalroute to Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain. The trail provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Bavarian Alps, culminating in the panoramic vistas from the hut.