Mittenwald combines a stunning alpine setting with a proud musical heritage. The village is set in the Bavarian Alps and filled with gingerbread-style houses. In addition to being famous for its centuries-old violin-making industry, the village is a hub for health, wellness and outdoor adventures.
Things to do in Mittenwald
Stroll around the village and admire traditional, timber-framed Bavarian buildings decorated with colourful frescoes. Inspired by folklore tales and religious scenes, the technique is called “luftlmalerei” and showcases the unique artistic traditions of Bavaria. A crystalline stream flows through the village and adds to the storybook charm. Enjoy lunch at a sidewalk café and browse boutiques selling everything from handmade crafts to chocolate-covered marzipan.
Mittenwald artisans have been crafting beautifully made violins in the village since the 17th century. Visit the Geigenbaumuseum to learn more about the string instrument and the legacy of Matthias Klotz, who pioneered the violin-making industry. The museum moonlights as an atmospheric venue for violin concerts and recitals.
Ride the chairlift up 4,564-metre-high Hoher Kranz Mountain. The peak towers over Mittenwald and commands sweeping views over the village and surrounding mountains. Well-marked hiking trails start at the summit and wind through sun-dappled forests. Lautersee, a picturesque lake surrounded by grassy meadows, is a popular endpoint and perfect place to swim, sunbathe and enjoy a picnic.
Winter snowfall transforms Mittenwald into a hub for alpine adventures. Skiing and snowboarding runs criss-cross the twin resorts of Kranzberg-Mittenwald and Dammkar-Mittenwald, both easily accessible from the village. Cross-country skiing trails offer a chance to slow down the pace and enjoy the postcard-perfect alpine scenery.
Getting around Mittenwald
Mittenwald is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The village is in Bavaria, a 1.5-hour drive from Munich. Garmisch-Partenkirchen Train Station is a 30-minute drive away and offers direct connections to Munich. Rental cars offer the freedom to explore the region at your own pace. Munich International Airport is a two-hour drive away.