President's Pick: Alpine Beauty
My Journey Through Bavaria and Austria
Upcoming Journey: June 7 - 20, 2025 led by Mary Taylor
SMALL GROUP EXPERIENCE | LIMITED TO 16 MEMBERS
There's something grounding about standing atop a mountain peak, breathing in crisp alpine air while gazing across an endless panorama of rugged summits. I often think back on my experiences travelling through this region. The daily walks in a mountainous setting, quick breaks for a pint and snack, delicious meals, new friends, and of course the near endless vistas.
Salzburg: Mozart's Timeless City
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Our group adventure began in Salzburg, Austria's baroque jewel and Mozart's birthplace. After settling into the hotel, we ventured into the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The pedestrian zones made it effortless to explore the city's rich architectural heritage, from Mozart's bright yellow birthplace to the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress looming over the city like a watchful guardian. The city strikes a perfect balance between culture and nature, with the Salzach River dividing old and new while the mountains frame every view like a postcard come to life.
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Alpine Adventures Begin
Our first taste of Alpine hiking came as we ascended to the infamous Eagle's Nest, perched dramatically at 1,834 meters. Though originally built as a 50th birthday present for Adolf Hitler, today it stands as both a reminder of history and a gateway to some of the most breathtaking views in the Bavarian and Austrian Alps. I opted for the panoramic walk rather than the elevator, rewarding myself with increasingly spectacular scenery with each step upward.
Crystal Waters and Underground Treasures
One cannot visit this region without experiencing Königssee, often called Germany's most beautiful alpine lake. The electric boat ride across its emerald waters was eerily yet pleasantly silent, allowing us to mindfully appreciate the steep mountain walls plummeting directly into the lake. At the iconic, red-domed church of St. Bartholomew, I explored walking trails that ventured deeper into Berchtesgaden National Park, marveling at how the landscape grew more pristine with each step away from civilization.
The salt mines of Berchtesgaden offered a fascinating contrast to our above-ground experience. Donning traditional miners' clothing, we glided down wooden slides into the mountain's heart, to learn how "white gold" shaped the region's prosperity for centuries.
Bavarian Castles and Monasteries
After a brief exploration of Munich's highlights, we settled in charming
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Oberammergau, famous for its Passion Play performances and colourful frescoed buildings. From here, we explored Ettal Monastery, where Benedictine monks still maintain centuries-old traditions, and the dreamy Linderhof Palace—the smallest but perhaps most intimate of King Ludwig II's fantasy castles.
Neuschwanstein and Hidden Valleys
A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, the ultimate fairy-tale fortress that inspired Walt Disney himself, is a must for anyone exploring Bavaria. I thought its appeal as a tourist magnet might lessen its charm, but the castle's dreamlike silhouette against the stunning mountain backdrop exceeded my expectations.
The final leg of our journey brought us to Kleinwalsertal, an Austrian enclave only accessible through Germany—a unique geographical quirk that has helped preserve its authentic Alpine character.
Hiking Heaven in Riezlern
The region's network of cable cars proved invaluable, whisking us effortlessly to altitudes that would otherwise require strenuous full-day climbs. From Kanzelwand to Fellhorn peak, we traversed mountain ridges with panoramic views into both Germany and Austria, sometimes pausing at rustic mountain lodges for a refreshing break.
The Breitachklamm gorge, the deepest in Central Europe, provided a dramatic change of scenery. Walking alongside thundering waters carving their way through towering limestone walls reminded me of nature's raw power to shape landscapes over millennia.
Farewell to the Alps
Our farewell gala dinner was bittersweet. Over nearly two weeks of Alpine exploration, we experienced a blend of cultural heritage, architectural wonders, and natural splendour. From Mozart's melodies to mountain meadows, from royal castles to rugged canyons, this journey through Bavaria and Austria engaged all my senses.
As our plane lifted from Munich back toward Canada, I gazed down at the Alps one last time, their peaks now familiar friends rather than anonymous summits. Reflecting on my journey, I can’t help but encourage anyone seeking culture, history, and nature to explore this breathtaking region for themselves— it’s a journey worth taking.
Contact Sharon today (sbahadur [at] craigtravel.com (sbahadur[at]craigtravel[dot]com)) or 1-800-387-8890 ext 200 to confirm your space on our Alpine Beauty adventure, and get ready to hike through the Astro-German Alps!
ALPINE BEAUTY
June 7 - 20, 2025 | 14 Days | 25 Meals
Journey Leader: Mary Taylor
