Bavaria Holidays

Covering 27,200 square miles, Bavaria, in south-western Germany, is the country’s largest state. It's bordered by Switzerland, Austria and the Czech Republic, but has its own distinctive culture, dialects, cuisine and architecture. Dotted around the region you’ll come across plenty of Luftmalerei – colourful paintings on building facades – as well as beautiful fairytale castles tucked away in the hills. The most famous of these is Neuschwanstein – built for King Ludwig II in the late 1800s, this fortress is also the main inspiration for Walt Disney’s Magic Kingdom castle.

Schliersee & Spitzingsee – only a few miles from the Austrian border – are two pretty hamlets that sit on the shores of two lakes of the same name. Surrounded by Alpine scenery, these peaceful villages are famous for their focus on relaxation and nature. Take a dip in the freshwater lakes, keep active on the enticing walking trails or take the small cable car from Schliersee to the top of the Schliersberg for fabulous views over the water. Füssen is also nearby – an enchanting town surrounded by crystal-clear lakes and the imposing Alps.

Bavaria is also known for its Alpine elements. Ruhpolding, surrounded by blossoming mountain meadows, is a scenic mountain village full of warm Bavarian hospitality and traditional architecture. It’s also a great base for exploring Bavaria’s capital, Munich, and nearby Berchtesgaden, home to Hitler’s infamous Eagle’s Nest. Down the road is Garmisch-Partenkirchen – affectionately known as GaPa – made up of two pretty market towns that were united for the 1936 Winter Olympics. Garmisch is fashionable and modern, while Partenkirchen is authentic, with cobblestone walkways and ornately decorated churches.