Holiday in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

What makes Garmisch-Partenkirchen special as a destination?

Garmisch-Partenkirchen lies at the foot of the Zugspitze (2,962 m), Germany's highest mountain, and is one of the most famous alpine resorts in the world. The double municipality was formed in 1935 from the two towns of Garmisch and Partenkirchen in connection with the 1936 Winter Olympics — the Olympic ski stadium and the historic ski jump still shape the town's image today. The Zugspitze can be reached by cogwheel train (75 minutes from Garmisch) or by cable car from Eibsee. On a clear day, the summit offers a 400-peak panorama over four countries (Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland). The cable car ride over the turquoise Eibsee is spectacular in itself. The Partnach Gorge is an impressive natural wonder: Over thousands of years, the Partnach has carved an 80-meter deep and 700-meter long gorge through the rock. In winter, the walls transform into bizarre ice formations. Access is via the Olympic ski stadium, entrance about €5. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is the venue for the traditional New Year's ski jump of the Four Hills Tournament and was the host of the Ski World Championships in 1978 and 2011. The Kandahar descent is one of the most challenging racecourses in alpine ski racing. In summer, over 300 km of marked hiking trails attract visitors, including the King's Way to Linderhof Palace and the Kramer Trail with panoramic views over the Wetterstein mountains.