Crossing the Alps from Garmisch to Sterzing

Stroll through the charming streets and soak up the cozy atmosphere of this popular Bavarian resort at the foot of the Zugspitze.

Hotel example: Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Garmisch

Pass the famous ski jump and walk through the dramatic Partnach Gorge, where rushing waters have carved deep into the rock. From Wamberg, hike to the Elmauer Alm and continue through blooming meadows and valleys to Lauter- and Ferchensee. Overnight stays are in Mittenwald, renowned for its violin-making tradition and Lüftlmalerei murals.

Hotel example: Hotel Gästehaus Bichlerhof

A transfer takes you to the Karwendel National Park at Möslalm, where the ascent to the Nordkette ridge begins. From the Pfeishütte, a spectacular high trail winds along rocky peaks to the cable car station, offering breathtaking views of the Inn Valley. After a stop at the mountain restaurant, a short cable car ride brings you down to Innsbruck. No visit would be complete without exploring the Old Town and its iconic Golden Roof.

Hotel example: Hotel Central Innsbruck

Take a bus and cable car up to the Serlesbahn mountain station in the Stubai Valley. Against the dramatic backdrop of the Stubaier Alps and their rugged peaks, you hike to the pilgrimage church of Maria Waldrast and linger at the monastery before beginning the alpine ascent to the Blaser Hut on the so-called Flower Mountain. From there, trails through meadows and forests lead down into the rustic and picturesque Gschnitztal.

Hotel example: Hotel Hohe Burg

Follow the famous pilgrimage trail of Saint Romedius up to the Truna Hut and onward to the Truna Pass. Nestled within the impressive mountain landscape, the idyllic Lichtsee invites a pause with views of numerous snow-capped three-thousand-meter peaks. The trail then descends through the Nösslachjoch Nature Reserve into the tranquil Obernberg Valley, where the imposing Tribulaun towers above the valley’s end.

Hotel example: Almi´s Berghotel

From the turquoise Obernberg Lake, follow the lakeside path past the renowned Maria am See Chapel, a special place of spiritual energy. Continue over blooming alpine meadows and pastures as you ascend to the 2,000-meter-high (6,560 ft) Sandjöchl, crossing the main Alpine ridge and the border into Italy. On the southern side, gentle switchbacks wind through mountain forests down into the picturesque Fleres Valley, with stunning views of the Italian Alps.

Hotel example: Pension Alpenhof

A bus and cable car take you up to the mountain station of the Ladurns Cable Car. From there, a scenic high trail winds along the mountainsides to Vallmingalm, where you can take a break and savor South Tyrolean specialties. For those who wish, a climb up Monte Cavallo (Rosskopf) rewards you with sweeping views of the Dolomites. The day concludes with a cable car descent to Vipiteno, where you can wander through the historic streets and enjoy the perfect ending to your hiking journey with exquisite Italian cuisine.

Hotel example: Hotel Steindl