Up the mountain. Take a deep breath. Arrive. Experience the Zugspitze

Amidst rugged cliffs, crystal-clear mountain lakes and flower-filled alpine pastures, a legendary peak rises: the Zugspitze. At 2,962 metres, it towers as Germany’s highest peak over a region that unites two worlds – the Tyrolean Außerfern with places such as Ehrwald, Lermoos and Biberwier, and the Bavarian Alpine foothills with Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Grainau and Mittenwald. The Zugspitze region is more than just a mountain range – it embodies a way of life characterised by adventure, mindfulness and Alpine bliss.

Anyone jogging through the Loisach Valley early in the morning or cycling along the Wetterstein Range on a mountain bike will immediately sense that here, nature is not merely a backdrop, but a powerful companion. The region captivates with its diversity – from dramatic peaks such as the Alpspitze and Zugspitze to tranquil spots such as the Eibsee, whose turquoise waters lie like an emerald beneath the mountain massif.

Whether you board the Zugspitzbahn on the German side in Grainau or enjoy the panoramic view from the Gatterl on the Tyrolean side in Ehrwald – the experience is majestic. And yet never overcrowded, never noisy. Instead, you feel an alpine tranquillity here that is perfectly suited to a relaxed, active holiday.

The Zugspitze region is a natural fitness park. In summer, over 1,200 kilometres of hiking trails await active explorers – ranging from family-friendly walks through alpine pastures to challenging summit treks such as the Jubiläumsgrat. Particularly popular is the circular route around the Wetterstein Mountains, which can be completed in stages and guarantees spectacular panoramic views.

Mountain bikers will find a top-class terrain. Trails such as the descent from the Grubigstein near Lermoos or the classic bike route through the Gaistal valley offer everything a biker could wish for: technical sections, flow trails and unforgettable views. For road cyclists, the ride over the Fern Pass or the loop through the Isar Valley is a real treat.

Trail runners appreciate the region for its varied elevation profiles, which challenge even ambitious athletes. And those who prefer a more leisurely pace can explore the forests whilst Nordic walking or enjoy a relaxing SUP session on the Eibsee or Plansee.

When winter blankets the landscape in white, the Zugspitze region is transformed into an alpine snow paradise. With the Zugspitze Glacier World, one of the highest-altitude ski resorts in the Alps awaits you – with guaranteed snow, vast expanses and views stretching as far as Munich. At Garmisch-Classic, alpine skiing enthusiasts will be in their element on legendary slopes such as the Kandahar.

For ski tourers, a paradise away from the lifts awaits – for example, on the Hochalm near Lermoos or through the tranquil valleys near Mittenwald. Snowshoe walks around the Moos near Grainau or along the Leutascher Geisterklamm combine exercise and tranquillity in a unique way.

The Zugspitze region isn’t just about adrenaline; it’s also about finding balance. Many hotels and chalets offer yoga retreats with mountain views, guided meditation walks and alpine wellness areas featuring natural spas and hay baths. In Leutasch, Ehrwald and Grainau in particular, you’ll find hideaways that focus on relaxation and healthy eating – perfect for an active break with lasting benefits.

If you’re active, you deserve to treat yourself. And in the Zugspitze region, you can do so in style – from rustic mountain hut charm to upmarket nature-inspired cuisine. Try the classic Allgäu Kässpatzen in an alpine hut above Garmisch, or treat yourself to freshly caught trout from the Loisach headwaters. The Tyrolean side entices with specialities such as Kasspatzln, Tiroler Gröstl or sweet Kiachl.

Gourmets can discover modern Alpine cuisine with a regional twist in hotels such as the Zugspitz Resort, the Posthotel Leermos or at Slow Food establishments around Mittenwald.

As well as its natural beauty, the Zugspitze region also impresses with its cultural riches: in Mittenwald, the ‘town of violin makers’, you can experience traditional craftsmanship at first hand. In Garmisch-Partenkirchen, tradition and sport come together – for example, at the New Year’s ski jump on the Olympic ski jump. Tyrolean villages such as Lermoos and Ehrwald cherish their customs and offer warm hospitality.

Whether it’s a summit climb or a leisurely hike, a trail run or a yoga flow – in the Zugspitze region, everyone can find their very own sense of elevation. The combination of nature, activity, relaxation and regional culinary delights is unique. When you holiday here, you’re not just travelling to a destination – you’re coming home to yourself.