The starting point of this varied mountain tour is Geitau train station near Bayrischzell (if desired, a meeting point in Munich can also be requested). From there, the trail initially leads at a leisurely pace through meadows and forest towards the Wendelstein. The ascent gradually becomes steeper, but is repeatedly rewarded with beautiful views of the Leitzach Valley and the surrounding peaks of the Bavarian Prealps. The panoramic trail finally takes you to the summit area of the Wendelstein at an altitude of 1,838 metres, where an impressive 360-degree panorama of the Alps opens up before you.
There’s plenty to discover at the summit: This is where Germany’s highest church, the Wendelstein Church, is located. Right next to it is the distinctive weather station, which can be seen from far away. The Wendelstein Cave, one of the highest show caves in Germany, is also located at the summit. Thanks to the historic Wendelstein Railway from Brannenburg and the Wendelstein Cable Car from Bayrischzell, the Wendelstein can also be reached without a long hike. At the top, there are also several places to stop for food or drink.
We plan to take a break of about an hour at the summit to enjoy the view, take photos, or have a leisurely stop at a restaurant. If you wish, you also have the option of ending the hike here and taking either the cable car to Bayrischzell or the historic rack railway to Brannenburg to descend into the valley at your own expense.
The descent then takes you back towards Geitau along varied paths – first along alpine trails and later through forests and alpine pastures. Overall, with a route of around 12 kilometres and an elevation gain of over 1,000 metres, the tour offers an active but very rewarding full-day tour with an impressive mountain backdrop in the Bavarian Alps.