Nestled along the border shared with Austria, the picturesque town of Mittenwald unveils itself as a captivating destination, characterized by its enchanting cobblestone streets, breathtaking mountain vistas, and a rich tradition of crafting exquisite classical instruments. As you wander through its storybook lanes, lined with charming houses that seem plucked straight from a fairy tale, all framed by the majestic Alps, you might find yourself transported to the enchanting world of "The Sound of Music."
While the peaks surrounding Mittenwald may not reach the towering heights of those found in the nearby Olympic-renowned Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the town offers a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. The crowds are noticeably smaller, and the prices are generally more accommodating, allowing you to fully embrace the warm and inviting feeling of Gemütlichkeit. This idyllic mountain hideaway, located just under two hours away from Munich, is easily accessible by both road and train, making it a convenient escape into the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Discover 10 Top Things to Do in Mittenwald, Germany.
1. Traverse the Leutaschklamm
No matter which direction you venture from Mittenwald, you’re guaranteed to encounter scenery worthy of a postcard. A short journey of approximately 2 miles south will lead you to the magnificent Leutaschklamm, also known as the Leutasch Gorge. This impressive ravine straddles the border between Austria and Germany, offering a unique opportunity to traverse both countries as you navigate the expertly constructed wooden pathways that cling to the rock walls.
As you walk, the Leutascher Ache river flows powerfully beneath you, carving its path through the gorge. The Leutaschklamm is renowned as one of the steepest ravines in the Alps, presenting a constantly evolving spectacle throughout the year. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, autumn, or winter, you’ll discover a unique and captivating experience.
If you find yourself feeling peckish during your exploration, be sure to stop at the restaurant Ederkanzel, conveniently located within the park. A quirky detail: the dining room and restrooms are situated within German territory, while the open-air terrace technically resides on Austrian soil.
2. Explore the Historic Mountain Altstadt
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the celebrated German writer and statesman, once described Mittenwald as "a picture book come alive," a testament to the town’s timeless charm and enduring appeal. Dating back to the Middle Ages, Mittenwald’s Altstadt (old town) is a treasure trove of history and architectural beauty. What to do in Mittenwald? It need not be more complicated than just going for a stroll.
Once a prosperous trading hub due to its strategic location on the route to Venice, the town’s historical character has been remarkably preserved. As you wander through the Altstadt, you’ll notice a charming brook gracefully winding its way through the center of town. The main street, Obermarkt, is adorned with beautifully painted facades, known as Lüftlmalerei. These artistic illusions, some of which date back 250 years, add depth and character to the otherwise simple buildings. The Lüftlmalerei often depicts scenes that reflect the profession of the house owner, local festivals, or religious vignettes, providing a glimpse into the town’s rich history and cultural heritage.
3. Step Into the City’s Holiest Building
Located in the heart of the town center, the iconic 14th-century St. Peter und Paul Church stands as a prominent landmark in Mittenwald. Its soaring bell tower and intricately painted frescoes make it a captivating sight. The church, a testament to the town’s rich history and artistic heritage, is one of the most important landmarks in Mittenwald.
The original structure was built in 1315, with the current design attributed to Josef Schmuzer, dating back to the mid-1700s. Today, the church serves a vibrant community of nearly 6,000 parishioners, as well as countless tourists who come to admire its stunning golden baroque decor. Be sure to listen for the hourly chimes of the bells, which resonate throughout the town, adding to its enchanting atmosphere.
4. Conquer the Karwendel
No visit to Mittenwald is complete without taking in the awe-inspiring Karwendel Alps. As the most extensive mountain range within the Northern Limestone Alps, the Karwendel offers breathtaking views and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor adventure. Mittenwald serves as an ideal base for exploring this magnificent natural wonderland.
For avid hikers, the mountain paths leading to the peaks offer a rewarding challenge. However, for those seeking a more leisurely ascent, the Karwendelbahn (cable car) provides a convenient and scenic alternative. In just 10 minutes, the cable car transports 25 passengers from an altitude of 913 meters to a breathtaking 2,244 meters, where they’ll discover Germany’s highest nature information center.
Bergwelt Karwendel offers an engaging exhibit showcasing the region’s natural wonders through informative films and displays. An oversized telescope provides panoramic views stretching far beyond what the naked eye can perceive, including the Isartal river valley, located approximately 1,300 meters below.
For a gentle and accessible experience, consider embarking on the easy circular walk, which takes about an hour to complete and is suitable for children. This path allows you to stand with one foot in Germany and the other in Austria, while soaking in panoramic views that extend to the horizon on a clear day. This is an ideal spot to witness the captivating spectacle of the sunset.
5. Ski the Alps
As winter descends upon Mittenwald, the popular summer hiking trails transform into some of the best ski slopes in Bavaria. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder, or prefer the tranquility of cross-country skiing, Mittenwald offers a winter wonderland of opportunities.
The largest ski resort in the area is Kranzberg, boasting eight lifts and nearly 10 miles of runs. An intricate network of trails connects the area with the Seefeld ski resort across the border in Austria, allowing you to ski between the two countries. This route, one of Germany’s longest ski trails, presents a thrilling challenge for advanced skiers and snowboarders.
6. Listen to the Music in the Village of a Thousand Violins
Mittenwald is more than just a picturesque alpine town; it is also known as the "Village of a Thousand Violins," a testament to its rich musical heritage. The town owes this distinction to its famed son, Matthias Klotz, who brought the art of violin making to Mittenwald.
After studying under renowned masters in Italy, Klotz returned to his hometown in 1684 and established a workshop, passing on his knowledge and skills to aspiring violin makers. Initially, he trained his brothers, but soon, half of the men in the village were engaged in the craft of crafting violins. The abundance of high-quality wood in the area made Mittenwald an ideal location for violin making, transforming it into a cultural hub.
The Geigenbaumuseum Mittenwald (Violin Making Museum), founded in 1930, showcases the history and evolution of violin making, highlighting its deep connection to the village of Mittenwald. Visitors can explore displays of violins from different eras and engage their senses by listening to the instruments, admiring their craftsmanship, and even experiencing the unique aroma of the materials used in their construction. This museum is a perfect destination for a rainy day.
To further celebrate the town’s cultural contribution, Mittenwald hosts an annual violin building contest each June, accompanied by concerts and lectures.
7. Watch the Cows Come Home
The Almabtrieb, the alpine tradition of bringing the cows down from the highlands after a summer of grazing, is a highlight in many Bavarian towns, including Mittenwald. This spectacle involves hundreds of cows parading through the narrow village streets, creating a festive atmosphere.
Arrive early to witness the Kranzkuh, the lead cow adorned with an elaborate wreath of alpine flowers, a cross, and a mirror. The following cows wear their bells, believed to ward off evil spirits. The parade also includes traditional alpine horn blowers, Goaslschnalzer (whip dancers), and Schuhplattler (shoe slappers), adding to the cultural richness of the event. The Almabtrieb usually takes place in mid-September, depending on weather conditions.
8. Say "Prost" at Mittenwald Brewery
Food and beer are integral to the experience of visiting any German town, and Mittenwald is no exception. Be sure to sample the local cuisine at the many traditional restaurants in town, and don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Mittenwalder Brewery.
The brewery proudly holds the distinction of being Germany’s highest brewery, offering stunning views to complement its exceptional beers. The brewery produces 10 different types of beer, adhering to the traditional purity law known as Reinheitsgebot. The same family has operated the brewery since 1864, ensuring the continuation of their brewing traditions.
Visit the hilltop brewery for a refreshing drink or join one of the tours to learn more about the art of beer making in Bavaria, which includes a tasting at the end. Tours are primarily available during the tourist season, from May to October.
9. Take a Day Trip to Germany’s Most Famous Castle
A visit to Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most famous castles in the world and one of Germany’s top attractions, is an easy day trip from Mittenwald. Located approximately an hour and a half away by car, this fairytale castle is a must-see destination.
Neuschwanstein Castle may not be as old as other palaces in the country, as it was constructed in 1869, but its quintessential fairytale design is so enchanting that it served as the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s Castle at Disneyland.
The route to the castle passes through the mountains, so be sure to drive carefully, as the roads can be icy.
10 Top Things to Do in Mittenwald, Germany are must-see destinations in Germany.
