Top Rated Attracties in Ettal

The Linderhof Palace, nestled in the western corner of Ettal, is the smallest castle to have been constructed by King Ludwig II. The tour of the palace gives visitors a glimpse into the opulent life that King Ludwig II led. From various chambers, dining rooms, grottos, and the King's favorite Hall of Mirrors, the ornate castle and its breathtaking expanse gives an up and close peek into the royal life. In winter when the castle is covered in snow, it resembles a spectacular, magical snow globe. While the castle is the smallest in size among all three palaces commissioned by King Ludwig II, it is also one of the most beautiful and exquisite royal complexes.

Among the largest of its kind, Ettal Abbey is an active Benedictine abbey. Though it was established by Emperor Ludwig in 1330, it is the Baroque designs of the architect Enrico Zuccalli after 1744 that laid the foundation for the beautiful structure that stands today. Featuring a stunning façade, the monastery is regarded as one of the most prominent sacred destinations in the area. Visitors can visit the bookstore to peruse the titles on display, stroll through the picturesque monastery garden, or explore the distillery that produces the famous Ettaler Kloster Liqueur. Guided tours of the complex are also offered.

Not only is Zugspitze the highest mountain in Germany, but it is also the highest summit of the Wetterstein Mountains. The mountain towers at an impressive height of 2,962 meters (9718 feet) above sea level. A famed ski region, the area surrounding Zugspitze has a variety of activities and attractions on offer for both skiers and non-skiers. Cable cars run up the mountain, offering visitors a chance to take in spellbinding alpine views from this iconic peak.

The Partnachklamm or Partnach Gorge is an incredible natural wonder. Just a half an hour walk from the Olympic Stadium of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the gorge is the starting point for several hikes and trails. Here, you will get a chance to witness the stunning waterfalls and rapids while following one of two paths—the Iron Bridge for the more adventurous tourists, and the walking trail following the water for nature-lovers seeking solitude. Particularly stunning in winter, torch-lit guided tours are perfect to admire the dramatic natural beauty of the Partnachklamm.

Wank Mountain is a mountain near Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Standing tall at an imposing height of 1780 meters (5840 feet), the mountain is a popular hiking destination during summer. Hikers and adventure enthusiasts scaling its peak are rewarded with breathtaking views of the Bavarian Alps that adorn the landscape of the region. During winter, Wank Mountain becomes a splendid winter sports destination. Take a hike up the scenic trail and admire the surrounding regions, or you hitch a ride on the Wankbahn, a cable car that allows visitors to traverse the natural wonder. The summit is also home to an observation tower and a restaurant.

When you want to take life by its horns and dwell into extreme snow sports, the Olympic Ski Jump in Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the place to be. This popular venue is known for having hosted the ski jumping event during the 1936 Winter Olympics. Maintaining its reputation, it continues to host ski jumping events throughout the winter and also plays host to the annual Four Hills Tournament's New Year's jumping tradition. When in town, witness this historic venue for yourself and admire the scenic locales that surround it.