Bavarian Dream Tour

Today, we journey along the picturesque German Alpine Road to the far reaches of Bavaria, exploring the breathtaking Berchtesgaden region, renowned for its stunning landscapes and centuries-old salt production heritage. After a photo stop at the iconic church in Ramsau, we’ll spend the morning at Königssee, a deep, crystal-clear alpine lake framed by steep mountain cliffs. Access to the lake is by boat only, and the entire fleet is locally manufactured and electric-powered for a wonderfully tranquil experience. Our boat trip includes both stops: St. Bartholomew, where the famous chapel stands, and Salet, at the lake's far end, where a short hike leads to Obersee—a true postcard scene come to life.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore Berchtesgaden town, with time to enjoy lunch and a leisurely stroll before continuing to Bad Reichenhall. If the weather is pleasant, we’ll take the world’s oldest cable car to the top of Predigtstuhl mountain. The summit offers sweeping views over Bavaria and Austria, as well as an historic restaurant where you can relax with coffee and cake—or, in true Bavarian style, a cold beer. In case of inclement weather, we’ll visit the fascinating Alte Saline to learn about the history of salt processing and transportation.

Tonight, enjoy dinner at your leisure back in Ruhpolding.

Today, we have our first encounter with King Ludwig II, the eccentric 19th-century Bavarian monarch known to some as the "Fairy Tale King" and to others as the "Mad King of Bavaria," or simply "Kini" by locals. Our destination is Herrenchiemsee Palace, Ludwig’s largest, most ambitious, and most extravagant creation. As an ardent admirer of France’s King Louis XIV, Ludwig envisioned his own Versailles on the secluded island of Herreninsel in Chiemsee (Lake Chiem). Built more as a private museum than a functioning royal palace, Herrenchiemsee impresses with its grandeur, lavish detail, and sheer scale.

Following our palace visit, we’ll travel to a second, smaller island for lunch, a leisurely stroll, and perhaps some shopping. Known as "Fraueninsel" or the "Women’s Island," this charming island village is home to around 200 residents. It’s celebrated for its craft shops, lovely gardens, and renowned smoked fish—a perfect spot to soak in the local culture and scenery.

We’ll arrive at our next overnight destination with time to explore the lovely village on the shores of Tegernsee (Lake Tegern) before gathering for another delightful group dinner.

Today’s adventure takes us to the summit of Germany’s highest peak, the impressive Zugspitze. To reach the top, we’ll ride in one of the world’s newest cable cars, which holds several world records. From the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views stretching south across the Alps - perhaps you will even see Switzerland or Italy - and even cross the border into Austria. For a truly unique experience, relax at Bavaria’s highest beer garden. We’ll also visit the bowl below the summit, offering a skier’s perspective of this majestic mountain.

Our next stop is the picturesque town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which hosted the 1936 Winter Olympics. A classic Bavarian destination, Garmisch remains a key location on the World Cup ski circuit and is a beloved summer alpine resort. After lunch and some free time to explore, we head deeper into the mountains to Mittenwald, a quintessential Bavarian village famed for its violin-making tradition. Here, we’ll enjoy a brief visit, giving you time for coffee and cake or some leisurely shopping.

Finally, we make our way back to the Tegernsee via the scenic backroads of remote alpine valleys. Dinner this evening is at your leisure in the village by the lake.

The original inspiration for our Bavarian Dream day tour: a scenic drive through the stunning countryside near the Alps, hopping between charming Bavarian villages. And that’s exactly what we’ll do today. Our first stop is one of the earliest Bavarian settlements, Bad Tölz, a picturesque town perched above the Isar River. From there, we visit the Benediktbeuern Abbey, a sprawling complex nestled in a beautiful setting—an ideal example of why this area between Munich and Garmisch is known as the Pfaffenwinkel (Priest's Corner)

Next, we head to the historic market town of Murnau am Staffelsee, perched above a lovely lake and once home to a renowned early 20th-century artist group. We’ll enjoy lunch here and have time to explore the charming market street. From Murnau, we take a scenic drive to the world-famous Oberammergau, the iconic town known for its Passion Play and exceptional wood carvings. You’ll have time for shopping or perhaps a treat of Germany’s finest gelato.

Our final stop is another masterpiece of King Ludwig II—Linderhof Palace. Serving as his de facto residence, this was the only building he actually completed. Set in a remote alpine valley, Linderhof enchants with its serene surroundings, spectacular gardens, and lavish interiors.

We’ll conclude the day with a group dinner at our new location in the Allgäu region.

Today is a Royal Fairy Tale day as we visit the majestic Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein castles. In the 1830s, Crown Prince Maximilian decided to rebuild the ruins of a medieval castle as his new summer residence, offering him a peaceful retreat in the mountains near his beloved hunting lodge. His sons spent their summers here, and the region would leave a lasting impression on young Crown Prince Ludwig. Our day begins with an extended guided tour of Hohenschwangau Castle, offering an inside look at this delightfully restored castle. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a meal at a nearby rustic Bavarian restaurant, authentic and peaceful, tucked away from the crowds.

In the afternoon, we’ll explore Neuschwanstein Castle, Bavaria’s most famous landmark. Perched at the edge of the Alps, Neuschwanstein captivates with its breathtaking location and the grandeur of its design. Built by King Ludwig II as a private museum, it is his tribute to King Arthur and the age of knights. We’ll take a special bus up the mountain to the iconic Mary’s Bridge for a stunning view of the castle, followed by an inside tour with a local guide.

Dinner tonight is at your leisure in our charming Allgäu village.

Today, we make our way back to Munich, taking a scenic route through the beautiful Bavarian countryside. Our first stop is at what we call the “wow church,” an extraordinary example of 18th-century Bavarian Rococo architecture that is sure to leave you in awe. From there, we continue north to the shores of Lake Starnberg and visit the quirky Buchheim Museum of Imagination, a unique collection of art and curiosities that reflects one man’s fascinating legacy.

Lunch is at Andechs Monastery, a popular pilgrimage site for both spiritual seekers and beer enthusiasts. The monastery, founded in the 15th century, was built on a hill over the ruins of an early medieval castle. Andechs is a key stop on the Bavarian Abbey Beer Trail, and the Biergarten offers wonderful views over the surrounding farmland.

Upon arrival in Munich, we’ll embark on a coach tour of the city’s important landmarks outside the city center. We’ll visit BMW World, Nymphenburg Palace, and several monuments that honor Bavaria’s rich history. We’ll conclude the day with an early farewell dinner at one of our favorite Munich Gasthäuser, where you can once again savor the flavors of Bavaria.

Today, we have a truly special experience in store for you, as we relive the river trade route once used by rafters for centuries to transport lumber and goods downstream. Dressed in traditional Bavarian Lederhosen and Dirndls, and accompanied by an oompah band, we’ll embark on a spectacular float down the Isar River on a traditional wooden raft. Enjoy a delicious sandwich lunch on board, with a keg of Munich beer to keep things festive. It is a tremendously fun and informative ride, as you learn about the history of rafting and some of the interesting sites we pass along the way.

After the excitement of the river raft trip, you’ll have the late afternoon and evening to relax and prepare for your departure tomorrow. We’ll cap off the day with a relaxed dinner near our hotel, giving you time to unwind and reflect on your Bavarian Dream adventure.

Fond farewells, as we bring you to the Munich airport or otherwise say a heartfelt "auf Wiedersehen".