Germany

The northern range of the Alps

The region mostly containing Germany’s mountain range is Bayern or Bavaria and is likely what most people think of when Germany comes to mind. Bavaria lies in Germany’s southern region and the Bavarian Alps also mostly define the southern border of the country. The German Alps do not see the consistent conditions that much of the higher altitude sections of Austria and Switzerland tend to maintain during winter…in our experiences, anyway. During a mild winter, you’re likely not going to find consistent halfway decent snow at locations other than the Zugspitze.

Bavaria has dozens upon dozens of other slope areas; however, the snow quality and accumulation hasn’t been great in the years we’ve been here. During the next consistent winter, we plan on visiting some of the lesser known slope areas. Fun fact: Germany’s longest slope run is located 20 minutes from Garmisch-Partenkirchen in the cozy little town of Mittenwald. A second-place ski-run in terms of length lies in the Oberstdorf area upon the intimidating Nebelhorn peak.

Click here for a short recollection of taking the kids up to the Zugspitze.

*A picturesque day at the top of the Wetterstein Alps*

In contrast, a lesser known region of ski-able terrain is located in the Feldberg area of the Schwarzwald or Black Forest. There are a few areas of pistes around Feldberg; the entire area Feldberg tends to receive a largely disproportionate amount of snow than the rest of the surrounding region thanks to the heights. The Schwarzwald’s southern region is dotted with smaller slope areas like Todtnauberg; however, depending on where you happen to be living, visiting, or passing through, most of them could potentially not be conveniently located or worth the travel.

Click here for our Feldberg recap filled with embarrassment, panic, and introspective father thoughts. Click here for a much happier look at Feldberg.

As with all things Germany, each region really has its own personality and way of living. In Bavaria you’re likely to spot Lederhosen, Dirndls, and Weisswurst. In the Black Forest, you’ll find Rothaus beer, perhaps a Bollenhut, and the world famous Kirschtorte that will have your head spinning after two slices.

Germany’s slopes pale in comparison to the heights and lengths of her southern neighbors of Austria, Switzerland, and Italy; however, as we explore more of the Bavarian Alps, I hope to post more and more in order to prove that the lower alpine region of Bavaria is completely worth the visit.