Are you longing for some winter magic? January in Munich offers plenty of slush and gray skies. At this time of year,wanderlust becomes even greater – but even close to Munich, the dreary month can quickly be forgotten. By this we don’t just mean the numerous winter sports resorts in the area, but also charming villages such as Mittenwald. Just 90 minutes south of the state capital by regional train or car lies this village, which rightly bears the nickname “Germany’s most beautiful village. “
A village like something out of a painting
Photo: Shutterstock
Mittenwald is famous for its Lüftlmalerei. These artistic frescoes adorn the facades of the old town houses and tell stories of saints, crafts, and rural life. Especially in winter, the village looks like a living backdrop from a Grimm brothers’ fairy tale. And the air is also excellent: this village is Germany’s highest climatic health resort!
What makes Mittenwald unique worldwide is a tradition that can be felt here at every turn: violin making. Since the 17th century, instruments have been made here that can be heard in orchestras from New York to Tokyo. There is even a larger-than-life wooden violin in the center of the village ! A perfect photo opportunity against the backdrop of the Karwendelwand. Today, there are about 10 independent master violin makers living in Mittenwald, and you can learn all about this special craft in the museum.
Between Bavarian cosiness and mountain bliss
Photo: Shutterstock
Even Goethe loved this picturesque village. He called Mittenwald a “living picture book.” Anyone strolling through Obermarkt Street today will immediately understand why: the view of the baroque parish church of St. Peter and Paul with its colorfully painted tower in front of the snow-capped peaks is one of the most photographed motifs in the Alps.
And while the ski resorts in the area are often bustling, Mittenwald retains an almost meditative tranquility in breathtaking natural surroundings. The Kranzberg mountain is right next to Mittenwald. From here, you can hike toLautersee lakeand on toFerchensee lake. And with the Mittenwald Karwendelbahn cable car, you can even ride Germany’s second-highest aerial cable car.