Zugspitze Ski Resort

Skiing on Germany’s highest peak is quite a special experience. Skiers and snowboarders can enjoy 20 blue-marked and red-marked kilometres of runs – suitable for both families with kids as well as for well-versed and experienced heads. The Zugspitze is as high as it gets in Germany. The ski area extends between 2,000 and 2,720 meters, and is open seven months a year thanks to the glacier.

The Wetterwandeck trails are a must for all visitors, while the Super G course offers up a special challenge to experts. Nevertheless, the Zugspitze is a great destination for beginners with several enjoyable blue-marked groomers, such as the Kleine Sonnenkar run no. 2a. There are also some shorter runs in the area around the glacier. This part of the resort is home to the igloo village, where you can even spend the night if you are feeling brave! This small village even has a bar, kitchen and two whirlpools. And if you spend the night here, you are certainly guaranteed to be first on the mountain in the morning!

The Gletscherbahn lift carries visitors up to the peak of Germany’s highest mountain at 2,962 meters. There are no less than four mountain restaurants waiting for hungry skiers up ton top. The glass structure of the Gletschergarten provides outstanding panoramic views, and the operators even open the roof when the weather is fair. The Restaurant Sonnalpin offers more rustic charm. From Bavarian fare through to veggie dishes, this self-service restaurant provides a varied selection of food. The Gipfelalm is home to hearty Bavarian dishes: Weißwurst and Kaiserschmarrn are true fixtures on the menu here. In Panorama 2962 you can look forward to strong coffee and delicious cake, served to accompany the amazing views from the glass facade. If the weather is clear, you can see all the way to Munich, and the panoramic windows include geographic information to help you get your bearings.

The Super G run down from the Wetterwandeckbahn lift is one of the real highlights of the ski resort.

If you go skiing on the Zugspitze, you shouldn’t pass up the chance to visit the Erlebniswelt Gletscher museum. In fact, there is plenty to discover on Germany’s highest peak away from the slopes. First and foremost – the incredible views. On the roof terrace, 23 mountain panorama boards help you to keep your orientation among the many surrounding peaks. In the Zugspitze exhibition, you can find out everything you need to know about the Zugspitze – from the first ascent to the present day. And if you want to get a little closer to the heavens, we recommend a visit to the “Maria Heimsuchung” mountain church.

Head to Garmisch-Partenkirchen for some drinks after a day on the slopes. Drehmöser 9 and the disco Evergreen are probably your best bet for a great evening of music and drinks. Après-ski fans also shouldn’t miss the opportunity to visit Miri’s Hütt’n. Beck’s Stadl has more of a laid-back atmosphere and this is a popular spot with both locals and visitors to the region.

Garmisch is home to numerous traditional inns and gourmet restaurants. Gasthof Schatten in particular is steeped in history – it is something of an institution in the town, serving guests since 1867. The Joseph Naus Stubn in Hotel Zugspitze also offers excellent regional and seasonal fare. The five-course menu, which changes every day, is slow food eating at its very best. Reindl’s restaurant is also one of the top spots in Garmisch-Partenkirchen – expect culinary delights served among eye-catching antiquities.

By car: You can access the Zugspitze ski area via the motorway A 95 Munich – Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

By train: There are also regular trains to Garmisch-Partenkirchen from Munich.