Departure
June 24, 2012
Trip Length
8 Days / 7 Nights
Price (per person)
$4,298
Single Supplement
$275
Internal Airfare
Pricing Notes
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Experience Bavarian culture on this walk along Alpine paths, through valleys and picturesque hamlets. You’ll visit elegant palaces—like the Venus grotto, gardens, and tapestry chambers of King Ludwig’s extraordinary Schloss Linderhof castle—and historic churches, including the 18th-century Wieskirche, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the 14th-century onion spires of the church of St. Bartholoma. High trails in Alpach lead to dazzling views, wildflower meadows, and majestic waterfalls, while charming mountain villages like Neustift offer homemade lunches at centuries-old erbhof farmhouses preserving the Tyrolean way of life.
Indulge in kaffee and artful kuchen cakes at local cafés or sip fresh German ale in a beer garden. You’ll delight in a flügelhorn demonstration at famous Echo Wall on the emerald waters of the Königssee in Berchtesgaden National Park, and enjoy browsing the medieval riches of Innsbruck. There’s even a traditional participatory heimatabend evening of Bavarian music and dancing, and a special Sound of Music tour that showcases Salzburg’s unique history.
GUEST COMMENT
Country Walkers tours are an excellent way to enjoy the natural beauty and learn of the culture of an area in the company of interesting fellow travellers with excellent guides.
”This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy to moderate, with an average of 4-8 miles per day and options on some days. There are daily ascents and descents varying between 300 and 1,200 feet. The highest altitude on tour is 5,700 feet, except for a glacier walk that starts at 10,500 feet and descends from that elevation. Walks are mostly on smooth terrain through meadows, woods, and villages at the foot of the Alps. Some trails with roots and rocks require good balance as they can be slippery when wet. The itinerary perfectly balances Alpine walks, relaxation, and cultural accents such as guided city tours and a castle visit.
Munich, Germany
Salzburg, Austria

A native of Austria’s Stubai Valley, Dominik lives and breathes mountains, Dominik...

DAY 1Arrival in Munich. Transfer to southern Bavaria. Linderhof Castle and Wieskirche visits. Mittenwald guided tour; 2-3 miles, easy You meet your guides in Munich and drive an hour south out of the valley and into the Ammergauer Alps, home to two of King Ludwig’s famous fairytale castles. The first stop is Schloss Linderhof, Ludwig’s only fully completed castle built in homage to Louis XIV, where you tour the manmade Venus Grotto (inspired by a scene from a Wagner opera), the interior, and the extensive gardens. Nearing lunchtime, a half-hour’s drive brings you to Wies, home to the magnificent Wieskirche (“Church in the Meadow”). Built in 1746 by the artist Dominikus Zimmerman, this secluded UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo architecture, also a destination for pilgrims, who are drawn to a wooden statue of Christ, said to cry real tears. Arriving at a traditional Bavarian-Swabian restaurant just opposite the church, you enjoy a first lunch of hearty regional specialties, such as Bavarian “Schweinebraten”―roast pork accompanied by potato dumplings and cabbage. Following lunch and a guided tour of Wieskirche, just over an hour’s drive takes you to the outskirts of Mittenwald, a charming Bavarian village nestled in the German Alps and your home for the next two nights. From the outskirts of the village, you descend into town on foot, your view framed by the mountain backdrop of the Karwendel massif. Described in 1786 by German writer Goethe as a “living picture book,” narrow lanes lead into the historic town center with its elegant shops, open-air cafés, homes adorned with overhanging eaves, flowering balconies, and colorful wall paintings―a local art form called Lüftlmalerei dating from the 18th century. While most of these elaborate frescoes are based on biblical themes, others recount the rich history of the area and portray the peaceful everyday life of mountain folk. At the heart of town stands the 18th-century parish church, one of the finest churches in the Bavarian Alps. Just outside the church is a memorial to Matthias Klotz, who introduced violin-making to Mittenwald in 1684, making the town one of the world’s most important centers of this highly specialized craft. Arriving at your hotel, a former post office along the town’s main pedestrian street, there is time to unpack and relax before gathering for a welcome cocktail and orientation meeting, followed by a dinner of regional specialties at the hotel. DAY 2Mittenwald to Elmau; 5 miles, easy, 300-ft elevation gain. Elmau to Klais; 4 miles, easy Following a buffet breakfast, you set off on foot for the day’s walk into neighboring Elmau Valley. Strolling past the picturesque homes of Mittenwald, you soon arrive at the outskirts of town and begin a gentle, yet steady ascent through the woods alongside the Laintal Creek and past small waterfalls. The narrow trail soon opens up to a wider, packed gravel track and the Elmau Valley. Stretched between the Wetterstein and Karwendel mountains, this scenic valley is lined with pristine timber forests, wildflower meadows, brooks, and lakes. You break for lunch at the historic Alpengut Elmau Inn, a former rest stop and telegraph station for King Ludwig while en route to one of his favorite hunting lodges. Seated on the outdoor terrace (weather permitting), you may choose from a number of local specialties―perhaps a dish of delicious homemade cheese “spätzle” or “weißwürste” (typical Bavarian sausages) served with savory mustard and a fresh pretzel. This afternoon, you have the option of transferring back to Mittenwald to relax, browse its many shops, or possibly visit the Geigenbaumuseum (Museum of Violin-Making), housed in one of Mittenwald’s oldest and most charming houses. Alternatively, you may continue on the four-mile afternoon walking option that passes the Elmau and Kranzback castles, ending in the enchanting village of Klais. Arriving at a cozy café, you are welcomed by our friends and bakers, Claudia and Wilfried, onto the panoramic terrace for a Kaffee mit Kuchen break (coffee and cake). Klais is home to Germany’s highest intercity train station, where you board a train for the eight-minute scenic ride back to Mittenwald. Dinner this evening is on your own; you may choose from a range of restaurants or welcoming beer gardens offering Bavarian specialties or international dishes, all a short walk from the hotel. DAY 3Transfer to Neustift. Stubai Glacier Walk (optional and weather permitting); 1 hour, moderate, 1,000-ft elevation loss. Neustift countryside; 2-4 miles, easy Today a 1½-hour drive delivers you across the border into Austria where you venture south into the Stubaital Valley, home to craggy mountain peaks and the mighty Stubai glacier. The drive through the Stubaital takes you past tranquil farm meadows, mountain slopes forested with larch and pine, thundering waterfalls, and the traditional Tyrolean villages of Schönberg, Mieders, Telfes, Fulpmes, and Neustift. Reaching the end of the broad valley, you board the Stubaier Gletschebahn gondola for a ride up 10,500 feet to the “Top of the Tyrol.” From the summit observation deck, a stunning panorama unfolds with views of the Ötztal mountains (including the second highest peak in Austria), to the Stubaier Alpen, and the Dolomites. Here you are met by a local glacier guide and begin the descent on ice to the mid-station (crampons are provided). For those not inclined to participate in the glacier walk, there is an option to take a return gondola ride to the base. Lunch is a short drive away down the valley at an inviting traditional Tyrolean alm (a working farm that provides meals for hikers), where an array of typical sausages and cheeses are laid out, as well as soup with dumplings and a thick berry pancake for dessert. Afterwards, you may decide to continue straight to your hotel in the charming mountain town of Neustift to enjoy the hotel spa facilities or to explore the streets and specialty shops of town on your own. Alternatively, the afternoon walking option begins on the outskirts of town, passing by centuries-old working farms and mountain peaks, and arrives into Neustift by mid-afternoon. A short walk around this classic ski and hiker’s village concludes with a visit to its remarkable Baroque parish church. Tyrol’s second largest church outside of Innsbruck, its rich interior is decorated with frescoes by well-known masters, and ornate metal headstones in its graveyard. You arrive at your hotel, a lovely Tyrolean property located just on the outskirts of town, with ample time to relax before reuniting for dinner at your hotel’s cozy restaurant. DAY 4Pinnis Valley and Besinnungsweg trail; 4-6 miles, moderate, 1,640-ft elevation loss. Additional option of 1½ miles, moderate to challenging, 500-ft elevation gain. Evening Innsbruck guided city tour; 1 hour, easy Breaking from routine, you leave the hotel without breakfast and drive 20 minutes to the Karalm (a traditional alm) for a hearty country breakfast of eggs, cheeses, sausages, and homemade jams and honey served by your hosts Maria and Armin. Situated on a high plateau in one of the most beautiful side valleys of the Stubai valley—the Pinnis valley—the Karalm sits in the highest pastureland at the foot of the mountain massif of the Habicht or “Hawk Mountain” (10,750 feet), the highest in the eastern Stubai region. From the Karalm (at an elevation of 5,730 feet), you begin a gentle descent of the Pinnis Valley, surrounded by a panorama of craggy peaks, alpine vistas and, along the smooth path, wildflowers such as Bavarian gentian and bluebells. A golden eagle may pass overhead and, with luck, you may spot mountain goats and marmots. Continuing on for a few hours, you arrive for lunch at the stunningly situated Issenangeralm at about 4,500 feet with breathtaking views from the terrace, and a wide-ranging menu of Tyrolean traditional food, including fresh trout. Afterwards, from the inn, you continue along the wooded “Besinnungsweg” (Trail of Reflection)—as its name implies, a meditation trail with a series of benches, carvings, and boards inviting visitors to take a seat, breathe, and enjoy the beautiful views. A short (1½ hour) and longer (2½ hour) option are offered, both reaching their endpoint in Neder, on the outskirts of Neustift, where a transfer is provided back to the hotel. This evening, after some time to relax back at your hotel, a half-hour’s drive brings you to the magical city of Innsbruck, appreciated for its combination of urban sophistication and alpine charm. A guided city tour brings you across the Maria-Theresien Strasse, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Europe, and through Innsbruck’s picturesque medieval city center—other highlights are the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) and Stadtturm (city tower). Following this stroll, you dine on Austrian classics such as Wienerschnitzel or cheese dumplings in the heart of the old city. DAY 5Transfer to Schönau am Königsee. Alpbachtal; 2.5 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft elevation gain Today you leave the Stubaital and drive along the wide Inn Valley to another Tyrolean side valley, the Alpbachtal (which takes its name from the Alpbach stream that flows through the entire valley). The walking destination for the day is Alpbach, voted Austria’s most beautiful village for its magnificent display of authentic Tyrolean architecture and flowers. Another “hiker’s village,” Alpbach offers endless walking options with numerous lifts and extensive footpaths. Today’s lunch features Tyrolean fare in an alpine Erbhof, a centuries-old farmhouse that has been in the family for hundreds of years and specifically designed to welcome hikers on their way. Time permitting, you visit historic Rattenberg, a tiny medieval town on the Inn River famous for its glass-making tradition that features museums, a pedestrian shopping zone, artisans at work, and another opportunity to relax over a refreshing drink. In the late afternoon, returning back to Germany, you arrive at your country-style hotel in the Berchtesgaden area. Tonight, you dine independently either enjoying your hotel’s excellent cuisine or at one of the restaurants in town with guidance and transport from your guides. DAY 6Lake Königsee and Berchtesgaden National Park; 4 miles, easy to moderate, 330-ft elevation gain and loss The morning begins with a short drive to the Königsee, a deep fjord-like lake with emerald green water flanked by the Walzmann mountain range. Königsee, literally “King’s Lake,” is in the heart of Berchtesgaden National Park and was a favorite retreat of Bavarian kings for many generations. Riding in an electric boat, you glide silently for about five miles, stopping along the way at the famous “echo wall” to listen to the Flugelhorn (trumpet) played in a serene mountain setting. The boat also docks at the 17th-century pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä with its onion domes and red-domed roof, built in baroque style with a floor plan modeled on Salzburg Cathedral. Until the beginning of the 19th century it was the summer seat for the prince abbots of Berchtesgaden, later a hunting castle of Bavarian kings, and today an inn and restaurant. Off the boat, you begin a walk to Obersee, a small lake that was once part of the Königsee until it was cut off by a large landslide. Nearing the end of the meadow, the Hagen Mountains are reflected in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Continuing on for another 45 minutes, you reach the idyllic mountain pasture, Fischunkel, surrounded by a natural amphitheater. Depending on the weather and route chosen, lunch could be authentic Bavarian fare in a traditional alm or a trailside picnic lunch. An additional (optional) 30 minutes brings you to the Röthbach Waterfall―the highest waterfall in Germany―plunging from 1,540 feet. Retracing the route to the boat, the scenic hour-long ride returns to the lake’s opposite shore. Rounding off the day’s adventure, you drive into the historic center of Berchtesgaden for independent touring and strolling (with maps provided by your guides) before reuniting for a Heimatabend, a traditional Bavarian evening of music and dancing at a favorite and historic local pub. Beer has been brewed here since the 17th century, and it continues to flow accompanied by music, dancing, and huge platters of local specialties—“Prost!” DAY 7Ramsau Countryside and Lake Hintersee; 7 miles, easy to moderate, 600-ft elevation gain and loss The walk today starts in Ramsau at the Ramsauer Pfarrkirche church, one of the region’s most photographed spots. Many painters, including amateur painter Dwight D. Eisenhower, have captured the beauty of this setting from the opposite side of the stream where you begin the walk. The route takes you through the Zauberwald (Magic Forest) with its garden gnomes, ancient trees, and moss-covered boulders. The halfway point is Lake Hintersee, a source of inspiration to many German artists at the end of the 19th century. Nearby, lunch is served at a local inn, and later, the remainder of the walk takes you around the lake and into an open meadow with sweeping views of the Reiteralpe, Hochkalter, and Hoher peaks. You enter the forest once more and return to the starting point. There is plenty of time to relax at the hotel and indulge in the spa facilities before reuniting for a final celebratory dinner in the hotel’s dining room. DAY 8Transfer to Salzburg. Guided city tour; 3 hours, easy. Farewell A short drive returns you to Austria with a special Sound of Music Tour featuring the history, architectural sights, and cultural highlights of Salzburg, along with some of the main locations used in the film. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Salzburg is well known for its association with the arts, in particular with music and its famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Upon completion of this tour, you bid farewell at the central train station, where you may continue your exploration of this fascinating city, or depart at leisure for your next destination. |
Itinerary Changes Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites, and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience. |
"Come and let me show you some of the most beautiful places in the Alps. While you walk on gorgeous trails you will see pure nature but also the culture and tradition of my home region."
-Christian Gleirscher
DAY 1Arrival in Mittenwald. Transfer to southern Bavaria. Linderhof Castle and Wieskirche visits. Mittenwald guided tour; 2-3 miles, easy You meet your guides in Mittenwald, a charming Bavarian village nestled in the German Alps, and drive an hour north out of the valley and into the Ammergauer Alps, home to two of King Ludwig’s famous fairytale castles. The first stop is Schloss Linderhof, Ludwig’s only fully completed castle built in homage to Louis XIV, where you tour the manmade Venus Grotto (inspired by a scene from a Wagner opera), the interior, and the extensive gardens. Nearing lunchtime, a half-hour’s drive brings you to Wies, home to the magnificent Wieskirche (“Church in the Meadow”). Built in 1746 by the artist Dominikus Zimmerman, this secluded UNESCO World Heritage Site is a masterpiece of Bavarian Rococo architecture, also a destination for pilgrims, who are drawn to a wooden statue of Christ, said to cry real tears. Arriving at a traditional Bavarian-Swabian restaurant just opposite the church, you enjoy a first lunch of hearty regional specialties, such as Bavarian “Schweinebraten”―roast pork accompanied by potato dumplings and cabbage. Following lunch and a guided tour of Wieskirche, just over an hour’s drive returns you to the outskirts of Mittenwald, where you descend into town on foot, your view framed by the mountain backdrop of the Karwendel massif. Described in 1786 by German writer Goethe as a “living picture book,” narrow lanes lead into the historic town center with its elegant shops, open-air cafés, homes adorned with overhanging eaves, flowering balconies, and colorful wall paintings―a local art form called Lüftlmalerei dating from the 18th century. While most of these elaborate frescoes are based on biblical themes, others recount the rich history of the area and portray the peaceful everyday life of mountain folk. At the heart of town stands the 18th-century parish church, one of the finest churches in the Bavarian Alps. Just outside the church is a memorial to Matthias Klotz, who introduced violin-making to Mittenwald in 1684, making the town one of the world’s most important centers of this highly specialized craft. Arriving at your hotel, a former post office along the town’s main pedestrian street, there is time to relax before gathering for a welcome cocktail and orientation meeting, followed by a dinner of regional specialties at the hotel. DAY 2Mittenwald to Elmau; 5 miles, easy, 300-ft elevation gain. Elmau to Klais; 4 miles, easy Following a buffet breakfast, you set off on foot for the day’s walk into neighboring Elmau Valley. Strolling past the picturesque homes of Mittenwald, you soon arrive at the outskirts of town and begin a gentle, yet steady ascent through the woods alongside the Laintal Creek and past small waterfalls. The narrow trail soon opens up to a wider, packed gravel track and the Elmau Valley. Stretched between the Wetterstein and Karwendel mountains, this scenic valley is lined with pristine timber forests, wildflower meadows, brooks, and lakes. You break for lunch at the historic Alpengut Elmau Inn, a former rest stop and telegraph station for King Ludwig while en route to one of his favorite hunting lodges. Seated on the outdoor terrace (weather permitting), you may choose from a number of local specialties―perhaps a dish of delicious homemade cheese “spätzle” or “weißwürste” (typical Bavarian sausages) served with savory mustard and a fresh pretzel. This afternoon, you have the option of transferring back to Mittenwald to relax, browse its many shops, or possibly visit the Geigenbaumuseum (Museum of Violin-Making), housed in one of Mittenwald’s oldest and most charming houses. Alternatively, you may continue on the four-mile afternoon walking option that passes the Elmau and Kranzback castles, ending in the enchanting village of Klais. Arriving at a cozy café, you are welcomed by our friends and bakers, Claudia and Wilfried, onto the panoramic terrace for a Kaffee mit Kuchen break (coffee and cake). Klais is home to Germany’s highest intercity train station, where you board a train for the eight-minute scenic ride back to Mittenwald. Dinner this evening is on your own; you may choose from a range of restaurants or welcoming beer gardens offering Bavarian specialties or international dishes, all a short walk from the hotel. DAY 3Transfer to Neustift. Stubai Glacier Walk (optional and weather permitting); 1 hour, moderate, 1,000-ft elevation loss. Neustift countryside; 2-4 miles, easy Today a 1½-hour drive delivers you across the border into Austria where you venture south into the Stubaital Valley, home to craggy mountain peaks and the mighty Stubai glacier. The drive through the Stubaital takes you past tranquil farm meadows, mountain slopes forested with larch and pine, thundering waterfalls, and the traditional Tyrolean villages of Schönberg, Mieders, Telfes, Fulpmes, and Neustift. Reaching the end of the broad valley, you board the Stubaier Gletschebahn gondola for a ride up 10,500 feet to the “Top of the Tyrol.” From the summit observation deck, a stunning panorama unfolds with views of the Ötztal mountains (including the second highest peak in Austria), to the Stubaier Alpen, and the Dolomites. Here you are met by a local glacier guide and begin the descent on ice to the mid-station (crampons are provided). For those not inclined to participate in the glacier walk, there is an option to take a return gondola ride to the base. Lunch is a short drive away down the valley at an inviting traditional Tyrolean alm (a working farm that provides meals for hikers), where an array of typical sausages and cheeses are laid out, as well as soup with dumplings and a thick berry pancake for dessert. Afterwards, you may decide to continue straight to your hotel in the charming mountain town of Neustift to enjoy the hotel spa facilities or to explore the streets and specialty shops of town on your own. Alternatively, the afternoon walking option begins on the outskirts of town, passing by centuries-old working farms and mountain peaks, and arrives into Neustift by mid-afternoon. A short walk around this classic ski and hiker’s village concludes with a visit to its remarkable Baroque parish church. Tyrol’s second largest church outside of Innsbruck, its rich interior is decorated with frescoes by well-known masters, and ornate metal headstones in its graveyard. You arrive at your hotel, a lovely Tyrolean property located just on the outskirts of town, with ample time to relax before reuniting for dinner at your hotel’s cozy restaurant. DAY 4Pinnis Valley and Besinnungsweg trail; 4-6 miles, moderate, 1,640-ft elevation loss. Additional option of 1½ miles, moderate to challenging, 500-ft elevation gain. Evening Innsbruck guided city tour; 1 hour, easy Breaking from routine, you leave the hotel without breakfast and drive 20 minutes to the Karalm (a traditional alm) for a hearty country breakfast of eggs, cheeses, sausages, and homemade jams and honey served by your hosts Maria and Armin. Situated on a high plateau in one of the most beautiful side valleys of the Stubai valley—the Pinnis valley—the Karalm sits in the highest pastureland at the foot of the mountain massif of the Habicht or “Hawk Mountain” (10,750 feet), the highest in the eastern Stubai region. From the Karalm (at an elevation of 5,730 feet), you begin a gentle descent of the Pinnis Valley, surrounded by a panorama of craggy peaks, alpine vistas and, along the smooth path, wildflowers such as Bavarian gentian and bluebells. A golden eagle may pass overhead and, with luck, you may spot mountain goats and marmots. Continuing on for a few hours, you arrive for lunch at the stunningly situated Issenangeralm at about 4,500 feet with breathtaking views from the terrace, and a wide-ranging menu of Tyrolean traditional food, including fresh trout. Afterwards, from the inn, you continue along the wooded “Besinnungsweg” (Trail of Reflection)—as its name implies, a meditation trail with a series of benches, carvings, and boards inviting visitors to take a seat, breathe, and enjoy the beautiful views. A short (1½ hour) and longer (2½ hour) option are offered, both reaching their endpoint in Neder, on the outskirts of Neustift, where a transfer is provided back to the hotel. This evening, after some time to relax back at your hotel, a half-hour’s drive brings you to the magical city of Innsbruck, appreciated for its combination of urban sophistication and alpine charm. A guided city tour brings you across the Maria-Theresien Strasse, considered one of the most beautiful streets in Europe, and through Innsbruck’s picturesque medieval city center—other highlights are the Goldenes Dachl (Golden Roof) and Stadtturm (city tower). Following this stroll, you dine on Austrian classics such as Wienerschnitzel or cheese dumplings in the heart of the old city. DAY 5Transfer to Schönau am Königsee. Alpbachtal; 2.5 miles, easy to moderate, 400-ft elevation gain Today you leave the Stubaital and drive along the wide Inn Valley to another Tyrolean side valley, the Alpbachtal (which takes its name from the Alpbach stream that flows through the entire valley). The walking destination for the day is Alpbach, voted Austria’s most beautiful village for its magnificent display of authentic Tyrolean architecture and flowers. Another “hiker’s village,” Alpbach offers endless walking options with numerous lifts and extensive footpaths. Today’s lunch features Tyrolean fare in an alpine Erbhof, a centuries-old farmhouse that has been in the family for hundreds of years and specifically designed to welcome hikers on their way. Time permitting, you visit historic Rattenberg, a tiny medieval town on the Inn River famous for its glass-making tradition that features museums, a pedestrian shopping zone, artisans at work, and another opportunity to relax over a refreshing drink. In the late afternoon, returning back to Germany, you arrive at your country-style hotel in the Berchtesgaden area. Tonight, you dine independently either enjoying your hotel’s excellent cuisine or at one of the restaurants in town with guidance and transport from your guides. DAY 6Lake Königsee and Berchtesgaden National Park; 4 miles, easy to moderate, 330-ft elevation gain and loss The morning begins with a short drive to the Königsee, a deep fjord-like lake with emerald green water flanked by the Walzmann mountain range. Königsee, literally “King’s Lake,” is in the heart of Berchtesgaden National Park and was a favorite retreat of Bavarian kings for many generations. Riding in an electric boat, you glide silently for about five miles, stopping along the way at the famous “echo wall” to listen to the Flugelhorn (trumpet) played in a serene mountain setting. The boat also docks at the 17th-century pilgrimage church of St. Bartholomä with its onion domes and red-domed roof, built in baroque style with a floor plan modeled on Salzburg Cathedral. Until the beginning of the 19th century it was the summer seat for the prince abbots of Berchtesgaden, later a hunting castle of Bavarian kings, and today an inn and restaurant. Off the boat, you begin a walk to Obersee, a small lake that was once part of the Königsee until it was cut off by a large landslide. Nearing the end of the meadow, the Hagen Mountains are reflected in the crystal clear waters of the lake. Continuing on for another 45 minutes, you reach the idyllic mountain pasture, Fischunkel, surrounded by a natural amphitheater. Depending on the weather and route chosen, lunch could be authentic Bavarian fare in a traditional alm or a trailside picnic lunch. An additional (optional) 30 minutes brings you to the Röthbach Waterfall―the highest waterfall in Germany―plunging from 1,540 feet. Retracing the route to the boat, the scenic hour-long ride returns to the lake’s opposite shore. Rounding off the day’s adventure, you drive into the historic center of Berchtesgaden for independent touring and strolling (with maps provided by your guides) before reuniting for a Heimatabend, a traditional Bavarian evening of music and dancing at a favorite and historic local pub. Beer has been brewed here since the 17th century, and it continues to flow accompanied by music, dancing, and huge platters of local specialties—“Prost!” DAY 7Ramsau Countryside and Lake Hintersee; 7 miles, easy to moderate, 600-ft elevation gain and loss The walk today starts in Ramsau at the Ramsauer Pfarrkirche church, one of the region’s most photographed spots. Many painters, including amateur painter Dwight D. Eisenhower, have captured the beauty of this setting from the opposite side of the stream where you begin the walk. The route takes you through the Zauberwald (Magic Forest) with its garden gnomes, ancient trees, and moss-covered boulders. The halfway point is Lake Hintersee, a source of inspiration to many German artists at the end of the 19th century. Nearby, lunch is served at a local inn, and later, the remainder of the walk takes you around the lake and into an open meadow with sweeping views of the Reiteralpe, Hochkalter, and Hoher peaks. You enter the forest once more and return to the starting point. There is plenty of time to relax at the hotel and indulge in the spa facilities before reuniting for a final celebratory dinner in the hotel’s dining room. DAY 8Transfer to Salzburg. Guided city tour; 3 hours, easy. Farewell A short drive returns you to Austria with a special Sound of Music Tour featuring the history, architectural sights, and cultural highlights of Salzburg, along with some of the main locations used in the film. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Salzburg is well known for its association with the arts, in particular with music and its famous son, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Upon completion of this tour, you bid farewell at the central train station, where you may continue your exploration of this fascinating city, or depart at leisure for your next destination. |
Itinerary Changes Please bear in mind that this is a typical itinerary, and the actual activities, sites, and accommodations may vary due to season, special events, weather, or transportation schedules. We reserve the right to alter the itinerary since tour arrangements are made up to a year in advance, and unforeseen circumstances that mandate change may arise. Itinerary changes are made to improve the tour and your experience. |
"Come and let me show you some of the most beautiful places in the Alps. While you walk on gorgeous trails you will see pure nature but also the culture and tradition of my home region."
-Christian Gleirscher
Mittenwald, Germany
Salzburg, Austria
![]() | Nights 1 & 2Post Hotel Mittenwald |
![]() | Nights 3 & 4Alpenhotel Tirolerhof |
![]() | Nights 5, 6 & 7Alpenhotel Zechmeisterlehen |
Please note that this is a sample hotel itinerary for this tour. While these exact hotels are featured on most departures, we occasionally reserve other hotels of similar style and quality. If you are currently booked on a Country Walkers adventure, a hotel itinerary has been sent to you for your exact departure date. Please call Country Walkers at 800.464.9255 if you have any questions about the exact hotels selected for any of our tours. |

A native of Austria’s Stubai Valley, Dominik lives and breathes mountains, Dominik...

![]() | Christian GleirscherBorn and raised in the Stubai Alps of Austria, Christian has always enjoyed playing and working in the mountains. He started his career in the tourism industry as a ski and snowboard instructor, and then became an accredited hiking guide. As a young adult, Christian was part of the Austrian National Team of Mountain Running, and has participated in several major marathons. Nowadays he divides his time between Austria and Poland, promoting his home region by attending trade shows, leading press tours, and collaborating with a local hotel and the Stubai Tourism Office. |
![]() | Dominik GleirscherA native of Austria’s Stubai Valley, Dominik lives and breathes mountains. In the summertime, as an accredited hiking guide, in addition to guiding Country Walkers guests in the Bavarian and Austrian Alps, he is a member of the rigorous Tyrolian mountain rescue squad. He spends all his time on the mountains in the winter also—as a ski instructor and ski racing coach, as well as an examiner for both the Tyrolian and the Austrian Ski School Association. |
Please note that these guides lead the majority of tours in this region, however, the guides for your tour may vary. When you reserve a tour, a guest list and guide biographies will be sent to you approximately one month prior to tour departure; the names and biographies of your tour guides will be included with this mailing. |
"Come and let me show you some of the most beautiful places in the Alps. While you walk on gorgeous trails you will see pure nature but also the culture and tradition of my home region."
-Christian Gleirscher
"Come and let me show you some of the most beautiful places in the Alps. While you walk on gorgeous trails you will see pure nature but also the culture and tradition of my home region."
-Christian Gleirscher
SINGLE SHARE (guided walking and small ship cruising)
If you are traveling alone and wish to share a room, we will make every effort to find you a roommate of the same gender.
Guided Walking: Based on availability, if you reserve a tour at least 91 days prior to the tour start date and wish to share a room, you will not be required to pay the single supplement fee (except where designated), even if we cannot find you a roommate.
Small Ship Cruising: A single supplement will be charged until we are able to confirm a roommate for you. If we are able to match you with a roommate, the single supplement will be refunded.
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (guided walking, small ship cruising, and safaris)
You may choose a private room, as a limited number of single rooms are available for an additional fee.
Solo Traveler Supplement (safaris only)
On our CW Safaris, a solo traveler surcharge (above and beyond the single supplement fee) applies to select destinations. Please call for details.
Child Pricing
Child pricing is available on request. Minimum ages apply to select departures including Uganda: Gorillas & Chimps (minimum age 16).
Scheduled Tours
Choose a Scheduled Tour date, and rest assured that your active adventure will coincide with the very best travel conditions.
On Scheduled Walking tours, know that you'll walk with like-minded travelers in a small-group (average 6 to 7 guests per guide—never more than 18 per group) environment. Best of all, your departure is guaranteed to go—no date changes, no cancellations. With over 65 worldwide adventures, we're sure there's one just right for you!
Our Small Ship voyages use vessels from the best fleets in the world, carefully matching each ship with specific regions and destinations. Expedition ships provide unrivaled access to destinations not easily reached by larger vessels. Each ship is equipped with Zodiacs for shore transfers; these jaunts are explored with expert, local guides.
CW Safaris are expertly crafted to create unique, individual travel experiences. Our safaris are offered as independent adventures... journeys you will take with local expert guides, on your choice of select departures dates.
Reserve Your Safari
CW Safaris are expertly crafted to create unique, individual travel experiences. Our safaris are offered as independent adventures... journeys you will take with local expert guides, on your choice of select departures dates. Independent journeys mean you choose the time and place and we bring it all together for you — the destinations, the travel arrangements, the lodgings, the activities. Please allow 24-48 hours to confirm your requested dates.
Private & Custom
Looking for a one-of-a-kind travel experience? Celebrating a special occasion? Planning a family adventure? A Private Departure offers you privacy priced right! You simply select your destination, a tour date, and the number of travelers—the tour price calculates automatically. Our expert tour planners will work closely with you to assure an unforgettable vacation!
Self-guided Tours
Self-Guided Walking and Biking Adventures give you maximum flexibility as you travel at your own pace—setting off whenever you're ready, choosing when and where to stop for lunch, and planning the day around your own personal schedule. We provide comprehensive and up-to-date materials as well as maps, detailed route notes, and great accommodations. All tours are rated for activity level; Self-Guided Biking Adventures are ideal for either beginner or experienced cyclists. We supply quality bikes and panniers on all biking tours. On every Self-Guided Adventure your luggage is transported for you. Take your spirit of adventure even further on a Self-Guided trip.
Single Supplement
On our Self-Guided Adventures, a single supplement applies to all solo travelers for single occupancy of a room.
Solo Traveler Supplement
On our Self-Guided Adventures, a solo traveler surcharge (above and beyond the single supplement fee) applies to select destinations. Please call for details.
Single Supplement
On our Private Adventures, a single supplement applies when two (or more) friends traveling together with to reserve private rooms.
Guided Walking
Our Guided Walking Adventures place you at the heart of the most extraordinary destinations—exploring the world on foot allows for a truly up-close experience. Departing on a scheduled basis, these tours boast hand-crafted itineraries, fine accommodations with access to scenic trails, restaurants showcasing authentic fare, and distinctive cultural events. Trips are led by the best guides in the travel industry, always local to the regions in which they guide. With small groups of like-minded guests and Guaranteed Departures, Guided Walking trips invite you to slow down to experience the world.
View all Guided Walking Adventures.
Your Departure is Guaranteed
When you reserve a trip, the last thing you need is to have it cancelled due to low enrollment. With our Guaranteed Departures, you can relax! Every Guided, Self-Guided, and Safari trip is guaranteed to go. No date changes, no cancellations, no disappointments. We do receive inquiries from guests whose tours have been cancelled by other tour operators. This is an important guarantee, alleviating a common worry for many travelers.
Please Choose a Departure Date in the future
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Country Walkers tours are an excellent way to enjoy the natural beauty and learn of the culture of an area in the company of interesting fellow travellers with excellent guides.
- J. & J. Berry, MaineEverything about the trip exceeded my expectations!
- S. & J. Kanne, MarylandThis was one of the best trips I have ever been on. The hiking was challenging and very rewarding. I felt totally taken care of and had no stress. Just what I wanted on a vacation. I learned so much about the culture of Germany and Austria.
- J. & J. Samet, New JerseyThese are experiences that you are not likely to have through any other type of travel.
- R. Butt & C. Lafelice, OhioA walking trip with Country Walkers is habit forming—I’m hooked!
- C. & W. Czander, South CarolinaDon't miss this trip! Bavaria is one of the most beautiful places in the world for hiking.
- L. Kelly, California