Garmisch, Germany

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Description of Garmisch:

Garmisch-Partenkirchen is one of the most important health resorts in the Bavarian Alps and Germany's premiere winter sports center. A good size town of 27,500 inhabitants, it is located in the heart of the German Alps at an altitude of 2300-2600'. It is the principal town of the Werdenfelser land overlooked by the Wetterstein, one of the mightiest mountain ranges of the northern Alps. Germany's highest peak, the Zugspitze (9,731') stands above the town. Three rail lines, several bus lines and excellent highways connect Garmisch-Partenkirchen with nearby Munich, the capital of Bavaria.

Winter in Garmisch-Partenkirchen means winter holidays and recreation with an appeal to a great variety of interests. The alpine skier will find downhill runs of all degrees of difficulty. There are more than 72 miles of skiing possibilities from novice to expert in this village that was the site of the IV Winter Olympic Games and site of world championships every year. Access to the slopes is provided by 53 lift facilities and one cog wheel train that will carry you to the five mountain peaks of: the Wank (5840'); the Eckbauer (4,147'); the Kreuzeck (5,417'). the Oster and Langenfedler (6,726'); the Hochalm (5,594') and to the Zugspitze at 9,731'. The cross-country skier will also find over 83 miles of trails for the enjoyment of this increasingly popular sport. Those interested in hiking in the invigorating mountain air will not be disappointed. There are 62 miles of footpaths of various altitudes, cleared of snow, providing many opportunities for strolling in the mountains.

Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers a wealth of activities and interesting things to do for the non-skier as well. The partially-covered Olympic Ice Stadium has 4800 square yards of artificial ice with lessons available for those interested. You might also try your hand at Curling, a combination of shuffleboard and bowling. Swimming, both indoor and outdoor can be enjoyed in the "Alpspitz Wellenbad" that contains a huge 2600 square yard pool with artificial waves. Sleigh-riding in horse drawn carriages is thoroughly enchanting in this winter wonderland. The visitor will find that there is also much to see in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and it's environs. The Werdenfels Museum, the Castle Schachen and much, much more.