Exploring winter hikes in southern Germany has been gaining traction recently, and there are some fascinating spots you should not miss out on.
1. Swabian Alb, Baden-Württemberg
Swabian Alb, a UNESCO biosphere reserve, boasts an extensive karst landscape filled with palaces and castles. It offers 27 high-quality hiking trails totaling 267 kilometers. Additionally, ten premium circular trails known as ledge trails follow the edge of the Swabian Alb, making for an unforgettable experience.
2. Black Forest – Schwarzwald, Baden-Württemberg
During winter, the Black Forest transforms into an enchanting fantasyland. Trails take you through romantic pine forests adorned with snow, and the elevated marshy terrain of Kaltenbronn, a protected area for over 60 years, is particularly captivating.
3. Swabia, Bavaria
Herghottsrue in Swabia is an idyllic pilgrimage site surrounding the pilgrimage church of the same name. The pilgrimage route, approximately 7 kilometers long, starts and ends at the church, providing stunning views of the snow-covered landscape and the town of Friedberg.
4. Pfronten, Bavaria
Pfronten in the Bavarian-Swabian district of Ostallgäu is a winter hiker's dream come true. Well-prepared and marked trails lead through the charming snow-covered valley of Pfronten and the mountainous landscapes of the Allgäu Alps.
5. Fichtelgebirge, Bavaria
In winter, Fichtelgebirge, a low mountain range in northeast Bavaria, is covered in snow. The area offers numerous toboggan runs, sledding trails, and a network of well-maintained trails for cross-country skiing, winter hikes, and cleared walking routes.
Winter hiking in southern Germany promises an abundance of positive emotions, with extensive hiking trails, picturesque landscapes, and delightful experiences.
Tourism in southern Germany has seen a surge in popularity, with winter hiking playing a significant role. Destinations like Swabian Alb and Black Forest are particularly sought after due to their extensive hiking trails, such as the 267-kilometer network in the Swabian Alb UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Southern Germany's winter hiking offers a plethora of excellent trails, each with its unique features. Here, you'll find some of the best options:
- Tegernsee-Schliersee Region
- Winterwalk along Fockenstein: This trail provides stunning lake shore views, idyllic explorations, and challenging terrain.
- Winterwalk to Buchsteinhütte: A challenging hike to the Buchsteinhütte, showcasing the beauty of the Bavarian Alps.
- Winterwalk to Baumgartenschneid: A hike to the Baumgartenschneid for panoramic views of the region.
- Schwarzenberg (1187 m) hike from Hundham: A moderate hike to Schwarzenberg summit, featuring picturesque valley views.
- Winter hike up Stolzenberg (1609 m): A challenging hike to the Stolzenberg summit in Mangfallgebirge mountains.
- Winterwalk Rotwand via Taubenstein from Spitzingsee: A hike from Spitzingsee to Rotwandhaus, displaying regional specialties and scenic views.
- Eibsee and Zugspitze
- Lake Eibsee: This 7.6 km trail circles the picturesque Lake Eibsee, offering breathtaking views of Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain.
- Höllental Gorge: A dramatic gorge near Grainau featuring well-maintained trails, tunnels, and bridges.
- Bavarian Alps
- Partnachklamm Gorge: A deep and narrow river gorge in the Wetterstein Mountains, famous for its smooth rock walls and vibrant moss.
- Wimbachklamm Gorge: A 200-meter-long gorge in the Berchtesgaden Alps, displaying numerous waterfalls and a magical karst landscape.
- Höllentalklamm Gorge: A longer, dramatic gorge compared to others in Bavaria, featuring electrically-illuminated tunnels and steep terrain.
- Berchtesgaden National Park
- Kleine Reibn Hike: A demanding alpine hike tracing the border between Salzburg and Bavaria, showcasing high-alpine karst landscapes and stunning views of Lake Königssee and Mount Watzmann.
- Lake Obersee: A wildly beautiful mountain lake accessible by boat, offering scenic vistas of Röthbach Waterfall and traditional alpine pasture huts.
These trails provide a mix of leisurely walks and challenging hikes, each with its unique features and stunning vistas, making them ideal for winter hiking in southern Germany.
