Weather in the Alps can be unpredictable, and even in the height of summer rain isn’t that uncommon. So you thought you’d be hiking and visiting lakes, and now what? Here are a few things in and around Oberammergau that can be enjoyed even on a rainy day.
The Partnachklamm (Partnach Gorge)
If you were hoping for a hike and don’t mind getting a bit wet, then the Partnach Gorge in Garmisch-Partenkirchen may be ideal, as it is covered, and you’d probably get dripped on rain or shine, so wear rain gear! The trail goes up a gorge with steep rock faces on either side and roaring rapids down below. It was originally used by hunters and forestry workers, and further developed in 1910-1912 for tourism. Watch your step as this trail can be slippery year-round, and check conditions before you leave home. Tickets must be purchased at the entrance (3-6 Euros depending on age and other factors), and plan for an approximately 30 minute walk from the parking lot to the gorge. The more water, the more impressive the hike is, so a rainy day can make for an ideal visit.
Wellenberg Swimming Pool
Located on a hill at the edge of town, the Wellenberg pool complex has a little bit of something for every swimmer – a lap pool, hydro-experience area, slides, and a heated pool that tunnels to outside. Fin nice weather, there are also several outdoor pools with, including a lap pool with diving boards and the original pool filled with fresh mountain water – brr. From the pool exterior pool deck, you get a beautiful view across the valley. Even on a rainy day, it’s nice to sit in the warm pool outside, and its especially charming when there’s snow on the ground.
The Oberammergau Museum
Located in the center of town, this museum has rotating exhibits pertaining to local art and history along with permanent exhibitions on the Roman history of the area and the tradition of woodcarving, especially of nativity scenes. You can purchase a ticket that includes both this museum and the Passion Play exhibit, located about three blocks away in the Passion Play Theater.
Downtown Garmisch
There is ample shopping in downtown Garmisch (which is one of the two cores in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen urban area) and ducking between stores and restaurants, you stand a reasonable chance of staying dry. Garmisch has a wider selection and more modern, cosmopolitan shops than Oberammergau, but Oberammergau does have plenty of options for souvenirs, especially the traditional woodcarvings of the area.
Take it slow in a “Stube”
Enjoy a meal or a drink in one of the cozy wood-clad rooms referred to as a Stube, designed for dreary days. A Stube by definition has a fireplace, so it’ll be a nice spot to stay warm. Examples can be found in the Gaststätte Zur Tini, Hotel Alte Post Restaurant, and Zum Kirchenbauer Weinstube, as well as Schleifmühle in neighboring Unterammergau. Commiserate with other tourists or find a local to chat with.
Castles
You could visit Linderhof Castle if you are only planning on seeing the castle itself, although the gardens are half the experience and will be less enjoyable in the rain. You might also be tempted to visit King Ludwig II’s other castles in Füssen, about 45 minutes away, although if you plan on walking up to Hohenschwangau Castle and Neuschwanstein Castle (or walking up to the Marienbrücke from the upper Neuschwanstein carriage stop) you may prefer a dry day so you don’t get soaked before your tour – and so you get a clearer view from the bridge and the castle café! If you have limited time and the other items on your itinerary are more weather-dependent, then by all means make the rainy days the castle-viewing days and save the nicer days for the outdoors! But do bring an umbrella, as some of the castle ticket booths and lines are outside.
Elated Travel LLC is small Oregon-based business designed to help you get the most out of your next trip, big or small.
Elated Travel LLC is an Independent Affiliate of A. S. A. P. Cruises Inc., Florida Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST15578 – CST 2090937-50 – Washington UBID No. 603189022. Services not available to residents of Hawaii.
Copyright © Elated Travel LLC 2024 All Rights Reserved
Elated Travel 