Looking for untouched nature? Then Munich’s local mountains are probably not the right place for you. The Herzogstand is the only mountain where you are likely to meet more Munich residents on a beautiful Saturday than in Kaufingerstraße. But there is a good reason for that. Located just outside the city, it offers the perfect panorama: on one side , the Alpine foothills with the turquoise-blue Walchensee lake – also known as the “Bavarian Caribbean” – and on the other , the rugged Karwendel Mountains.
The Herzogstand is 1,731 meters high and is located in the Bavarian Prealps, about 75 km south of Munich. It is not only a popular destination today, but has been for many years. The Herzogstand was the favorite mountain of none other than King Ludwig II.
Summit climbing made easy
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There are various ways to reach the summit: the classic route leads from the valley station of the cable car in serpentines up to the Herzogstandhaus. This path is well developed and technically easy, but you need to be in good physical condition. You will reach the top in about 2.5 to 3 hours.
If you prefer a more leisurely pace or have knee problems, the Herzogstandbahn cable car will take you almost to the summit in just a few minutes. From the cable car’s mountain station , a well-maintained path leads to the summit pavilion in about 30–45 minutes. This “panoramic trail” is also suitable for families or less experienced hikers.
However, if you prefer a more athletic challenge, you should try the ridge walk. It leads from Herzogstand to the neighboring Heimgarten and is one of the most famous tours in the Alpine foothills. Sure-footedness and a head for heights are required here! The entire circuit takes about 6–7 hours, but you will be rewarded with spectacular views.
Refreshments and views
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A visit to the Herzogstandhaus is a must when you’re on the mountain. Cold drinks and Kaiserschmarrn await youin the large mountain hut. From the rest house, it’s a short, 30-minute walk to the actual summit cross with its famous wooden pavilion.
In addition to the incomparable view—you can see several lakes and, on a clear day, even the Zugspitze—the Herzogstand offers a few small adventures. The mountain is a popular spot for paragliders due to the thermals and landing sites at Walchensee. And when there is enough snow, the Herzogstand (via the summer trail) is a destination for easy ski tours or snowshoe hikes.