Bavaria–Berchtesgaden, Fussen, Munich
The highlights of traveling in Germany is in Bavaria. Consider visiting Neuschwanstein Castle, seeing crystal clear lakes, enjoying locally brewed beer with bratwurst, and joining in the fun at Oktoberfest in Munich. Travel Germany by train, car, and walking.
Berchtesgaden
From Salzburg, it’s only a 30-minute drive to Berchtesgaden, although public bus transportation was also available. Once we arrived in the area, we went to the salt mine. Afterwards, we headed to Eagle’s Nest. Unfortunately, it was rainy, so we had to skip the boat ride on Konigssee Lake intended for the afternoon. Had we partaken in all three, it would have been a full day.
Salt Mines
There were three accessible salt mines during our Austria/Germany trip, one near Salzburg, one in Hallstatt, and one in Berchtesgaden. Although similar, there were also some minor differences. Those differences and the weather made the decision for us. It was rainy and the parking lot in Berchtesgaden was near to the mine.
While dressed in special garb, we navigated the mine on a passenger train, a funicular, a subterranean boat ride, and zipped down wooden slides. Audio guides based on language preference, along with a tour guide, provided the background to exhibits and interactive figures recounting the process and value of the local salt history. We thoroughly enjoyed the tour!
Eagle’s Nest
It’s hard to imagine this place in history is now a restaurant, with a few wall depictions of the Nazi regime. Although structurally well preserved, it’s a sobering visit, and a grim reminder of a painful history. Cars were not allowed to drive to Eagle’s Nest; instead, we parked at the center and jumped on the shuttle bus for a 15-minute steep climb to a 6,000-foot elevation. I can see why they insisted on using their shuttle buses. The Eagle’s Nest was free, but there was a cost to take the bus. On a clear day, the surrounding view from the mountaintop is quite commanding.
The documentation center near Eagle’s Nest provides a thorough and informative background to Hitler and the rise of the Nazi party.
Fussen
After Salzburg, we drove a few hours to Fussen. This town was a perfect home base, as it was only a 10-minute drive from the famous castles. Although, we did consider the alternative nearby towns of Reutte, Austria and Oberammergau, Germany. After settling in at our hotel, we searched out the local sites for a leisurely walk on pathways around the Lech River and Falls, the Treetop Walkway, and the Forggensee Lake. There were several lakes in this area of Bavaria to enjoy, all within a short drive.
Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau Castles
The famous King Ludwig castles were enchanting. We purchased our time-stamped tickets days in advance. Given the volume of visitors, they are unforgiving for late entry and precise in keeping to the tour time. So, we planned to be early and took advantage of the shuttle bus from the parking lot to the castles, as it is quite a hilly and long walk from the car.
The tours were fascinating, each castle though different. But the enchanting Neuschwanstein Castle was the one we enjoyed the most. Mary’s Bridge is near to the Neuschwanstein Castle and offered a picture perfect view. Once we returned to the parking lot, we opted for a hike around the beautiful clear Lake Alpsee.
It was wise to familiarize ourselves ahead of time with the castles, the parking, buses, and walking distance within the dedicated castle area.
After the castles we ventured into the surrounding German backroads of Bavaria. Not only was the afternoon drive pleasant but we saw an isolated small Rococo design church in Wieskirche and a 14th century monastery in Ettal.
Nearby is the third King Ludwig castle of Linderhof, Lake Plansee, and the town of Oberammergau, known for the Passion Play held every ten years. Without a car, it would have been difficult to see these additional sights.
Munich
The last day of our Bavaria travel in Germany was to Munich. The city hall occupies Marienplatz, a large public square, where local attractions take place and the famous medieval marionettes dance within the Rathaus-Glockenspiel clock. Every day at synchronized times, depending on the time of year, the 12-minute historical dancing clock comes to life celebrating the demise of the black plague.
Next, we jumped on the subway and headed to the BMW Museum and BMW Welt. The museum contains a well displayed historical timeline of the German automobile including an awesome collection. It was very well done, especially if interested in BMW’s. The BMW Welt is basically an upscale dealership with their most recent vehicles.
Haufbrauhaus is the most popular beer hall in Germany. Dating back to the late 1500’s, the high vaulted ceilings are painted with colorful German themes. It was exciting to visit and quite common to share a table with strangers.
Additional sights to see were either the Nymphenburg Palace or the Residenz. The Residenz is close to the city center. But, perhaps on our next visit.
Oktoberfest
Our goal was now to have fun at the Oktoberfest; which began the end of September and lasted until the first Sunday in October. This celebration exceeded our expectations. It was above and beyond in professional quality, cleanliness, security, entertaining music, and excellent food and beer! We had a great time thoroughly enjoying this fun event and are excited for a return visit!
