Discover the beauty of the Northern Alps
The Alps are undoubtedly one of the most impressive mountain systems on the map of Europe. In the midst of these majestic mountains lies the border between Germany and Austria, where some of the most spectacular mountain ranges of the northern Alps stretch out. These impressive landscapes not only offer an incomparable experience to hikers and nature lovers, but are also a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts and photographers.
1 Mount Zugspitze - The peaks of Germany
One of the outstanding highlights of the northern Alps is undoubtedly the Zugspitze. At an altitude of 2,962 meters, it is not only Germany’s highest mountain, but also a popular destination for hikers and skiers alike, with a modern mountain hut that even offers a glass viewing platform thanks to clever architecture.
The Zugspitze not only offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the 400 surrounding mountain peaks, valleys and numerous ski resorts, but also of one of Germany’s last glaciers. How long the Eternal Ice will withstand climate change is questionable.
In summer, hikers can explore various routes to the summit, while in winter, skiers, snowboarders and tobogganers will be thrilled by the perfectly groomed slopes and powder snow. Nowadays, however, the summit of the Zugspitze can be reached not only on foot, but also by three different mountain railroads. With the cable car, the glacier cable car, and a historic 100-year-old rack railroad. https://zugspitze.de/de/Unsere-Bergwelten/Highlights/Rundreise-Zugspitze
For those who want a different approach to the ascent – we also fly past the Zugspitze on our “Alps XXL” route – so close that you almost think you’re touching the snow-covered peak.
The Zugspitze is not only a natural wonder, but also a symbol of national identity and a place where one can experience the transboundary beauty of the Alps in all its glory. The first dated ascent took place in 1820 by Lieutenant Joseph Naus. In the 19th century, it played a crucial role in defining the political boundaries in this region. The Zugspitze became a symbol of national identity and served as an important landmark for travelers and trade routes. Today, a golden summit cross adorns the mountain peak.
2 Lechquellen Mountains - Wilderness and Biodiversity
The Lechquellengebirge is a hidden gem on the map of the Northern Alps and a true paradise for nature lovers. The mountain range earns its name, in addition to numerous peaks such as the Untere Wildgrubenspitze (2,753 meters), also due to its location on the upper reaches of the Lech River with its spring creeks.
The diverse flora and fauna of nature in the area is well developed for tourism and make this region an ideal place for hikers. Along the hiking trails and hut hikes, visitors often encounter rare species of animals such as ibexes, chamois and marmots. With its clear mountain streams and picturesque lakes, this region is a true retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Famous excursion sites include Alpe Laguz, a mountain hut in Vorarlberg with a unique panorama. https://www.vorarlberg-alpenregion.at/de/raggal-marul/info/alpe-laguz.html
The history of this region is marked by the intense relationship between people and nature. For centuries, the inhabitants here have lived in harmony with the alpine environment and benefited from the rich resources of the mountains. The cultural traces of past generations are still visible today. Historical paths and trails bear witness to the former importance of the mountains as a trade route and connection between the valleys. The Lechquellen Mountains tell a story of man and nature, which are inextricably interwoven.
3 The Allgäu Alps - Culture and Tradition
The Allgäu Alps stretch along the German-Austrian border east of Lake Constance and include the Tannheimer Berge and the Vilsalpsee next to the Leilachspitze in Tyrol. Germany, with 4 of the 10 highest peaks in the Allgäu Alps, has only a small share of the mountain range, which lies mainly in Austria.
The Allgäu Alps also offer a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including mountaineering, climbing and paragliding. The region ranks as Germany’s most biodiverse mountain range and hikers can observe many protected animal and plant species from the trails.
Agriculture, especially cattle breeding, has a long tradition in the Allgäu Alps. The cultivation of the mountain pastures and the care of the alpine landscape are important cultural elements that are still maintained today. The agricultural products such as cheese, milk, honey or meat can be bought fresh at many farms and mountain huts and make a hiking tour through the Allgäu Alps a unique experience also in terms of taste. https://www.oberstdorf.de/alpininfo/allgaeuer-alpen/alpwirtschaft/
4 The Kitzbühel Alps - Old trails and legends
The Kitzbühel Alps, named after the picturesque town of Kitzbühel in Austria, are another fascinating mountain range in the northern Alps. This region with places like Kitzbühle, St.Johann in Tirol or Hopfgarten is not only known for its impressive peaks and ski resorts with over 900 kilometers of slopes, but also for other sports like cross-country skiing, biking, swimming in the lakes of the mountains and hiking in summer and winter.
The Kitzbühel Alps were already populated in the younger Bronze Age around 1100 to 900 BC, as archaeological finds prove. Over the centuries, ancient paths have been used here, which today serve as hiking trails and lead visitors through the alpine landscape. The region is also rich in sagas and legends that have been passed down from generation to generation. In St.Johann in Tirol, the story of the Schnackler is well known, a hermit who has an adventure with a mountain goblin. https://www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com/de/stjo/so/wandern/schnackler-sage.html
5 The Berchtesgaden Alps - Historical Heritage and Natural Treasures
The Berchtesgaden Alps, located in the southeastern part of the German Alps, are best known for the Watzmann Mountain with an altitude of 2,941 meters. The region was once the hunting ground of Bavarian kings and emperors, and the imposing Berchtesgaden Castle is a testament to this royal presence. Throughout history, the region has also been a center of mining, and to this day you can discover the legacy of these activities in the mines in the area. The salt mine in Berchtesgaden is particularly suitable for a trip to discover the fascinating caves and mountain slides underground. https://www.salzbergwerk.de/de
The Berchtesgaden Alps are also known for their breathtaking natural landscape, including the Königssee, with 140 meters one of the deepest and also clearest lakes in Germany. Especially the Gumpen at Königssee, blue pools that seem to be carved into the rock face, have become more and more famous in recent years due to breathtaking pictures on social media. Even though access to the Gumpen is restricted today – the lake is still a magnet for tourists who want to take great photos.
6 The Ötztal Alps - Witnesses of Early History
The Ötztal Alps are one of the largest mountain ranges in the northern Alps and an impressive testimony to the region’s early history. The Wildspitze, as the highest peak of the mountain range that straddles Austria and Italy, has an impressive height of 3,768 meters. Archaeological finds from the Stone Age, the Bronze Age and the Iron Age have been made in this region, and the discovery of the famous Ötzi, the “Iceman”, in 1991 was a real treasure for archaeology. https://www.iceman.it/de/oetzi-der-mann-aus-dem-eis/
The Ötztal Alps were also important in Roman times, when they were part of the trade routes between Italy and northern Europe. The history of this mountain range goes back to prehistoric times and gives us a fascinating insight into the history of the early settlement of our Alpine region.
Unforgettable experiences in the northern Alps
The mountain ranges on the German-Austrian border are undoubtedly a treasure trove of beauty and natural assets in the northern Alps. From the majestic Zugspitze to the pristine Lechquellen Mountains and the culturally rich Allgäu Alps, these areas offer a wealth of unforgettable experiences for those who love nature and seek mountain beauty. Whether you are an experienced mountain hiker or simply want to enjoy the enchanting Alpine scenery, these regions will enchant with their unique magic. The border between Germany and Austria truly holds an amazing world and each mountain range tells a captivating story worth discovering. Pack your hiking boots and get ready to fall in love with the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Alps.
