The best of Bavaria, from the flower-rich valleys to the highest point in Germany. 

The limestone mountains of the Bavarian Alps may not be as familiar as their higher Austrian, French or Swiss neighbours, but they are home to some fantastic wildlife. Highlights of our trip should include wet meadows full of orchids (including at least four species of marsh orchid) and home to singing corncrake, common rosefinch and bluethroat; scarce butterflies such as dusky large blue and lesser marbled fritillary; high mountain specialities including chamois, Alpine chough and snowfinch; delicate alpine flowers such as Primula minima, Gentianella bavarica, Thlaspi rotundifolia and the beautiful Soldanella alpina; and some awe-inspiring mountain scenery, with views taking in four countries. There will also be time to explore some of the cultural highlights of the area, with the option of a visit to Munich’s museum quarter.

This holiday is based in the scenic town of Mittenwald, in the Alpine foothills, from where we will explore the woods, meadows, wetlands and, of course, the high mountains in the surrounding area.

From London to Munich and then throughout the holiday, we will be doing all of our travel by public transport, travelling first by Eurostar to Paris and then by sleeper train to Munich. In Bavaria, we will take advantage of the fantastic local train service together with the cable cars that give us direct access to the mountains. The holiday will include some longer walks, of up to 8 miles.

This trip is perfect for anyone who appreciates wildlife and walking in the hills, and who enjoys the gentler pace of travel by train and cable car. Oh, and if you like apple cake, hot chocolate and Bavarian beer, all the better!
 

Click here for a gallery of photos and a trip report from our 2009 'recce' trip.

£1345 (includes international train travel). SRS £95

Full Board

Leaders: Philip Precey and Charlie Moores

For the real alpine aficionado, this trip is easy to combine with our visit to the Dolomites the next week, with a direct train from Munich to Venice.