With the winter temperatures in February, Munich residents are more inclined to go skiing in the surrounding mountains than to one of the numerous lakes. But even if the weather isn’t ideal for swimming at the moment, a visit to Bavaria’s inland waters is still worthwhile, and not just because of the beautiful landscape. This February, the annual “Montgolfiade” hot air balloon festival will take place in Tegernsee for a week, offering a varied program and the chance to rise to lofty heights.
Hot air ballooning over Lake Tegernsee
Photo: Aaron Burden/Unsplash
In June 1909, two bankers from Frankfurt set off on a trip to Bavaria in a gas balloon to view Lake Tegernsee and its mountains from above. Due to strong gusts of wind, they were unable to land on the Rottacher Feld, but instead got caught in the trees in the Weiße Valepp. They spent a total of 18 hours in the balloon to see the lake and the surrounding landscape from above.
Since 1994, you too have had the opportunity to take a hot-air balloon ride over the lake and the Alps with Ballooning Tegernsee. Thanks to the experienced pilots, your landing is guaranteed to be smoother than that of the two bankers. The more adventurous among you can book a trip across the Alps. The flights are offered in every season, but a special highlight awaits you in winter with the annual Montgolfiade.
Tegernsee Montgolfiade program
Tegernsee Tal Tourismus has been organizing the Montgolfiade in Bad Wiessee for 25 years now and celebrates ballooning with you. From February 1 to 8, you can see the colorful balloons over the lake every day, even if you are not actually attending the festival. But a detour to the festival is definitely worthwhile, as there is plenty to see and do. In Bad Wiessee itself, for example, you can stroll along the promenade past the food and craft market and discover some new treasures. To round off the festival, the Schäffler will be performing their traditional dance here on February 8.
In addition, there are other program items awaiting you, such as the fox hunt on Thursday. During this event, the balloonists compete in a race. On Friday, there is the “balloon glow,” during which the balloons remain on the ground after dark and let their lights shine to the beat of the music. This is your chance to see the aircraft up close or dance to the music of live bands and DJs. Saturday continues with music at the Winter Glow, where the balloons shine again for you and you can party to DJ sets. The winner of the fox hunt will also be announced during this event.
As if the Montgolfiade weren’t unique enough, you’ll also have the opportunity to ride in a hot air balloon during the festival. Every day at 8:30 a.m., you can embark on a three-hour tour over the lake and the Alpine foothills. See the beautiful landscape from a new perspective and glide through the air, over the water and mountain peaks. Advance booking is essential. Please note that flights may be canceled due to weather conditions. Even more hot air balloon action awaits you at Lake Tegernsee from May 20 to 23 at the German Championships.
📍 Location: Tegernsee Valley, Bad Wiessee
📅 Dates: February 1 to 8
💶 Price information: Balloon ride from €280