In the Ammergau Alps - which lie between Linderhof Palace, Ettal Abbey, Oberammergau, Unterammergau, Saulgrub-Altenau and the two spa resorts, Bad Bayersoien and Bad Kohlgrub - you can walk or cycle in the footsteps of King Ludwig of Bavaria. Roam the unspoilt mountain scenery and fascinating nature conservation area along the Ammer or enjoy a soothing mountain pine mud bath at one of the mud spas. Linderhof Palace is a private royal residence. King Ludwig II turned the building, which started out as a simple hunting lodge built by his father Maximilian II at the back of the Graswang valley, into an intimate little palace based on the design of the Petit Trianon in Versailles. Experience monastic life up close in the "Bavarian think tank" at the Benedictine abbey in Ettal. If you don't fancy taking your vows just yet, you can just visit the abbey for a few days or weeks. During this time, you will be invited to attend the Divine office and share your religious experiences. This really must be a very special spot, if the Bavarian kings chose it as the location for such visionary creations.
The area around Lake Staffelsee is known as the Blaues Land region. Its idyllic scenery has been a source of inspiration for many famous artists, including Kandinsky. In this atmospheric lakeland and moorland scenery set against the fantastic panorama of the Upper Bavarian Alps, you'll experience a special blend of nature, art and culture. Visitors exploring the region on foot or by bike will witness a marvellous natural spectacle: Lake Staffelsee with its seven islands and Murnauer Moos nature conservation area – the largest Alpine foothill moor in Central Europe - surrounded by picturesque Alpine scenery. This is a true paradise on the edge of the Alps. Wherever you choose to visit, you'll find plenty to see and do at any time of year. In the spring when Mother Nature is awakening, in the summer when the mountain pastures are covered with a carpet of colourful flowers, in the autumn when the landscape is drenched with autumnal colour, and in the winter when the snow falls like confetti from the sky. This vast wealth of natural beauty is like a balm for the soul. There are many excursions to enjoy in the land of the fairytale king - so what are you waiting for!
