If you finally want to get your skis out of the cellar and race down new slopes in Munich in January, you currently have the best conditions to do so. It’s cold enough that ski resorts in the Bavarian foothills have plenty of snow to offer. But there is also plenty to see around Munich for all winter lovers who are not looking for the biggest mountains but still want to take a trip. The Simmerberg is located around 40 kilometers south-east of Munich. The journey is even more worthwhile this season!
A panoramic view despite the low altitude
The Simmerberg is a popular excursion destination in the Upper Bavarian Alpine foothills. At an altitude of around 700 to 800 meters, it may not be a giant, but thanks to its great location, it offers one of the most spectacular views in the Munich area. If the weather is good, the panoramic view extends to the Berchtesgaden Alps in the east, the Kaiser Mountains and the Wendelstein massif all the way to the Zugspitze in the west.
So you don’t have to hike much to enjoy this view. The hilly landscape is known for its easy hikes and walks. Incidentally, the landmark of Simmerberg is the small, white pilgrimage chapel of St. James. In its current form, it dates back to the Baroque period around 1700. Here you can immerse yourself in history and take the perfect photo: The chapel stands alone on the hilltop, framed by old lime trees.
New: Relaxed tobogganing on the Simmerberg
As of this season, there is a very special new feature on the Simmerberg that will delight winter sports enthusiasts in particular: A toboggan run with ski lift! You can ski on the Simmerberg in the resort in the market town of Weiler-Simmerberg in the Allgäu. With its rather low altitude, this ski area is perfect for beginners and families. Try out the race track and the wave run, while the little ones can try out the “Zauberwald” practice lift.
And it’s not just in Munich that you can go tobogganing, Simmerberg is also ideal for this. A toboggan run and direct access to the “Westallgäu” cross-country ski trail network are very close by. Simply hang your toboggan in the lift hanger and let yourself be pulled up the mountain! You can hire the toboggans on site. A single ride costs 4 euros, but you can also save money with a 5 (15 euros) or 10 (25 euros) ticket.
If you need a break after a fun-filled day in the snow, you can easily do so at the valley station. Here you will find the “Imbiss-Stüble “, where you can warm up with drinks and food. A real winter paradise awaits you very close to Munich.