Germany is a country visited by thousands of outdoor enthusiasts every year. It rightfully occupies one of the leading places in the world in terms of the development of winter tourism and skiing. There are more than 250 ski resorts here, most of which are located in the south of the country - in the Bavarian Alps. Well-maintained ski resorts in Germany are always ready to welcome everyone who is attracted by an exciting winter holiday combined with sports and a high level of service.
Five reasons to go to a ski resort in Germany
Germany is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, associated mainly with ancient castles, art galleries and the famous Oktoberfest. Meanwhile, local ski resorts are gaining more and more popularity.
The main reasons for this are:
- High level of service with a democratic pricing policy. As one of the leading European countries, Germany is distinguished by a highly developed infrastructure of tourist regions. In addition to the well-groomed slopes, there are thermal springs, excellent hotels, museums, clubs and restaurants. At the same time, the prices for vacations here are much lower than at French, Austrian or Swiss ski resorts. Thus, you get a high level of comfort, a variety of activities available and at the same time save money.
- Small ski areas and easy descents. German tracks are the perfect choice for beginners and those who come on vacation with children. Mostly chairlifts and drag lifts in Germany are not united into a single network, so the ascent to the top does not take much time.
- Great opportunities for hiking and flat skiing. Many kilometers of trails make not only downhill skiing popular, but also flat skiing, and beautiful landscapes allow you to enjoy specially designed hiking trails.
- Possibility to combine outdoor activities with medical tourism. This is one of the most significant advantages of a holiday in Germany.
- A huge number of various ski resorts throughout the country. Thanks to this, tourists have the opportunity to choose a base in that part of Germany that seems to them the most attractive and combine, for example, a trip to Berlin and sightseeing with skiing.
How to choose the right ski resort in Germany
German ski resorts and resorts cannot be categorized as good or bad. The level of service and security is equally high everywhere. But the range of available services and the degree of comfort is a personal choice of everyone.
However, there are some very important characteristics that you should pay attention to if you are planning active skiing.
Comparative analysis of popular ski resorts in Germany:
| Resort | Total length of tracks | Max. height | Slope difficulty level | Work period | Price of a ski pass per day for 1 adult |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Garmisch-Partenkirchen | 62 km | 2000 m | Mostly difficult, interesting tracks in the blue and red zones. There are no easy routes. Several trails for skiing with an expert level of difficulty. | 43 € | |
| Berchtesgaden | 50 km | 1170 m | Tracks of all categories of difficulty are presented. Great choice for beginners - 10 routes. | December - March | 45 € |
| Oberstdorf | 44 km | 1117 m | Mainly red and blue tracks of average difficulty. 3 expert level tracks. | December - March | 40 € |
| Schliersee and Legris | 0.2 miles | 1449 m | All types of tracks are available. | December - March | 33 € |
| Wright-im- Winkle | 50 km | 1110 m | Blue and red tracks prevail. No easy green routes and only 1 expert. | December - April | 40 € |
| Feldberg (Black Forest) | 58 km | 1450 m | All kinds of trails for sports activities for the whole family. | December - March | 30 € |
Ski resorts in the Bavarian Alps
The Bavarian Alps are Olympic-level ski resorts; it was here that competitions were held in 1936. Since then, local resorts have not only not lost their status as advanced and comfortable, but only strengthened it. There are trails for both beginners and professionals.
The rich cultural heritage of Bavaria will keep you entertained between series of descents, and the excellent restaurants will keep you entertained in good company.
Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Garmisch-Partenkirchen is perhaps the most famous German ski resort in the Bavarian Alps. It is located in the south of the region, on the border with Austria. After the 1936 Olympics, various international competitions are regularly held on the slopes of the local mountains.
This is the resort with the longest runs in Germany. Night skiing is allowed here, there is a ski school.
In addition to the traditional slopes, there is an ice rink, a swimming pool, a climbing wall, a snowboarding, tobogganing and paragliding area, cross-country trails and hiking trails. It is here that the famous Zugspitze peak is located. Spa centers will help you to relax after hard workouts, and fitness clubs will help you to improve your physical condition. Discos are open in the evening.
Approximate prices in Garmisch-Partenkirchen:
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| 1-room apartment for rent | 1 month | 822 € |
| Lunch at a restaurant | for 1 person | 15 € |
| A cup of coffee | 1 | 4 € |
| Traveling in public transport | 1 person one way | 4 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: international airports Munich (96 km) and Innsbruck (55 km);
- by train: railway station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen;
- by car: from Munich on the A-95 motorway, from Innsbruck towards Mittenwald.
Berchtesgaden
Berchtesgaden is located in the south of Bavaria on the territory of the national park of the same name. It is famous for its 16th century salt mines and the Königssee glacial lake. The resort is divided into several zones: Jenner, Rosfeld, Obersalzberg, Hochschwarzeck.
A ski school, spa centers and fitness clubs operate on the territory of the Berchtesgaden resort. In addition to snowboarding, cross-country skiing, ice skating, tobogganing, paragliding, snowrafting and hiking, you will be offered extreme snow bike races.
If you wish, you can go on an excursion and see the historical monuments of Salzburg, which is only 15 km away. In the city itself it will be interesting to see the ancient castle and cathedral.
Approximate prices in Berchtesgaden
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel room | 1 day | 90-240 € |
| Wiener Schnitzel | for 2 persons | 12, 90 € |
| A cup of coffee | 1 | 2,90 € |
| Taxi ride | 1 person one way | Basic rate from 4 € |
| Dry wine bottle | 1 | 19 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: the nearest international airport is Salzburg (15 km);
- by train: railway station Berchtesgaden (1 km), trains follow from Munich, Salzburg, Innsbruck, Vienna.
Oberstdorf - some of the best pistes and ice rinks in the world
Oberstdorf is a famous ski resort near Munich. Located in the south-west of the country, near Lake Constance. It is rightfully considered a worthy rival of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Divided into three ski regions: Fellhorn, Zellerekk and Nebelhorn. The pride of the resort is jumping jumps and a modern figure skating center, where professional trainings and international competitions are often held.
There are tracks of various heights. Those interested can visit the ski school. Night skiing is not permitted. But there are snowboarding and hiking trails, an ice rink, a climbing wall, a swimming pool, areas for paragliding, snowbiking and sledging. After active sports, cozy bars, cafes, spa and fitness centers, discos await you.
Estimated prices in Oberstdorf
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel room | 1 day | 75 – 200 € |
| Lunch at a restaurant | for 1 person (soup, goulash, 2 glasses of beer) | 30 € |
| Sauna | 1 adult | 9,5 € |
| Taxi ride | 1 person one way | 15- 20 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: the nearest airports are Friedrishafen (90 km), Munich (175 km).
- by train: Oberstdorf railway station (1 km).
Schliersee and Legris
Schliersee and Legris are perfect for families with small children. You will be delighted with affordable prices and ample opportunities for sports. Comfortable hotels, many restaurants and bars will warm you on cool evenings. Beginners will be pleased with the ski school, where classes will allow you to get up on skis as quickly as possible.
Approximate prices in Schliersee and Legris:
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel room | 1 day | 107 € |
| Burger | 1 PC. | 14,90 € |
| Caesar salad | for 1 guest | 7,9 € |
| Mineral water bottle | 1 PC. | 2,8 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: international airports Kranebitten (65.52 km), Munich (69.05 km), Salzburg Mozart (84.96 km);
- By train: Bahnhof Wendelstein railway station (11.8 km).
Reit im Winkl and its merits
Reit im Winkl is located in the southeastern part of Bavaria and offers plenty of fun for winter sports enthusiasts. The small town is home to well-known rehabilitation and recreation centers throughout Germany. It is an ideal choice for those who want not only to exercise, but also to improve their health.
Night skiing is not permitted. There is a ski school. On the territory of the resort you can go hiking, snowboarding, ice skating, cross-country skiing, swim in the pool, get your dose of adrenaline at the climbing wall, while practicing snowrafting or paragliding.
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel room | 1 day | 53 - 191 € |
| Munich airport shuttle | for 1 guest in both directions | from 148 € |
| Pork steak | for 1 person | 11,90 € |
| Pizza | 1 PC. | 6,50 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: Salzburg International Airport (67 km);
- by train: Reit im Winkl railway station (1 km).
Resort chain in the Black Forest
The most famous ski resort in the region is Feldberg. It is called the cradle of winter sports in Germany and for good reason. As for ski lovers, all types of trails are at their service - from gentle and easy to high-speed and steep.
Those who come here with children will love the entertainment at the Badeparadis Schwarzwald water park. History lovers will remember the walk to the local ancient fortress - the Black Forest Castle. Fans of a healthy lifestyle will not miss the opportunity to visit Baden-Baden.
Approximate prices in the Black Forest:
| Position | Volume / Quantity / Term | average price |
|---|---|---|
| Hotel room | 1 day | 68 - 145 € |
| Traveling in public transport | - | With the Hochschwarzwald Card - free of charge (issued to guests of hotels and guest houses). |
| for 2 persons | 45 € | |
| Tageskarte REGIO24 | One day ticket for all types of public transport. | 12,40 € |
| Equipment rental (boots and snowboard) | 1 day - 1 adult | 21 € |
How to get there:
- by plane: international airports Baden-Baden, Stuttgart;
- by train: railway station Feldberg-Bärental.
Summing up
German ski resorts are a whole scattering of comfortable and safe sports bases. There are trails for both beginners and experienced skiers. Other winter sports will help diversify your vacation.
On the map of Germany, you will definitely find a suitable option for yourself. Ski resorts are located literally all over the country. However, the largest number of them is still located in Bavaria. It is noteworthy that not only those who are confident on skis can rest in the winter resorts of Germany. In each of the resorts, you will find several routes specially designed for hiking.
As for the price of such a vacation, it is much lower than in the ski resorts of France or Switzerland. In France, the average price for a ski pass (pass for access to the ski lift) for 1 adult is not less than 35 € per day, in Switzerland - from 43 to 60 € and more.
In Germany, you can go for a great ride for 30-43 € per day. At the same time, German bases are not inferior to competitors in terms of equipment and functionality, and some of them are superior.
The opportunity to relax with children, combine excursions, sports and fun pastime with friends - all these are the undoubted advantages of ski resorts in Germany. It is also a great option for a winter vacation.
