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Reflection of two hikers in a mountain lake with panorama

From Lake Tegernsee to Sterzing with Charm

Crossing the Alps with charm

Reflection of two hikers in a mountain lake with panorama

The essentials at a glance

Alpine crossing from Lake Tegernsee to Sterzing through Germany, Austria, and Italy. Mountain hiking requiring good fitness and surefootedness on well-maintained trails. Highlights include the Tegernseer Höhenweg, Achensee lakeside paths, cable car ride to Spieljoch (1,850m), and crossing the main Alpine ridge at Pfitscherjoch (2,275m). Daily distances average 11-17 km with moderate ascents. Includes charming accommodations, luggage transfers, and a guided tour of medieval Sterzing.

Do you have questions about this tour?

Accommodation with that special something - that's what awaits you on the Charm variant of the Alpine crossing from Tegernsee to Sterzing. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable hiking experience through a picturesque storybook landscape that stretches from idyllic Lake Tegernsee to glistening Lake Achensee, through the enchanting Zillertal valley and all the way to Sterzing. Every step reveals new breathtaking views and fascinating landscapes that are constantly changing. Experience traditional Bavarian culture up close, feel the warm hospitality of Tyrol and indulge in the culinary delights of South Tyrol, accompanied by delicious wines from the region. Make your dream of hiking across the Alps come true and embark now on an incomparable experience.

You begin this hiking adventure with a leisurely circular route along the Tegernsee High Trail. Stop by the brewery and take the ferry for breathtaking views. From Bad Wiessee, the route leads you over the Gaisalm and the Blaubergalm to Achenkirch. Once you arrive in Tyrol, you'll hike along the stunning western shore of Lake Achensee, spending the night in Fügen. Day 5 brings more scenic vistas as you first take the gondola to Spieljoch. From there, you'll pass through the Gart Alm and over the Loassattel to reach the winter sports resort of Hochfügen.

In the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, you’ll enjoy the panoramic view from Sidanjoch, overlooking the Karwendel and Tux Alps. Just before reaching Melchboden, you’ll pass picturesque lakes, and from there, take the Zillertal Railway to your next overnight stop. The final kilometers of your hike will take you from the Schlegeis Reservoir to the Pfitscherjoch. Waterfalls line the path as you traverse the main alpine ridge, followed by a descent into Sterzing.

  • Gorgeous panoramas and picturesque lakeside paths on Lake Achensee: The largest lake in Tyrol awaits you with its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the majestic Karwendel mountains. You'll hike along the Gaisalm trail and treat yourself to a refreshing dip in the summer temperatures.
  • Spectacular hiking on the Spieljoch: The vistas of the Zillertal and the majestic mountain ranges surrounding it are nothing short of awe-inspiring. As you journey along, you'll be captivated by vibrant alpine meadows in full bloom, lush, dense forests, and tranquil mountain lakes that create a picture-perfect landscape.
  • Lake views at over 1,800 meters: Nestled in a breathtaking high alpine setting, the Schlegeis Reservoir is a true gem surrounded by towering mountain peaks. As you traverse the route, you’ll encounter glistening waterfalls and charming alpine pastures. The view from the dam is simply stunning, providing a captivating contrast to the untouched beauty of the landscape.

Crossing the Alps demands good physical fitness and surefootedness, but you'll be rewarded time and again with breathtaking views. In the evenings, unwind in charming hotels, most of which feature inviting wellness areas. You’ll conquer up to 17 kilometers per stage, spending up to six hours on your feet. The travel package includes various transfers, a mountain ride to Spieljoch, and a guided city tour in Sterzing.

On the route from Tegernsee to South Tyrol, you'll visit three countries. Hiking tours in Germany are a top choice for many outdoor enthusiasts, as the country offers an impressive range of options for your active holiday.

Book now
To the online version
Reflection of two hikers in a mountain lake with panorama

From Lake Tegernsee to Sterzing with Charm

Crossing the Alps with charm

Reflection of two hikers in a mountain lake with panorama

The essentials at a glance

Alpine crossing from Lake Tegernsee to Sterzing through Germany, Austria, and Italy. Mountain hiking requiring good fitness and surefootedness on well-maintained trails. Highlights include the Tegernseer Höhenweg, Achensee lakeside paths, cable car ride to Spieljoch (1,850m), and crossing the main Alpine ridge at Pfitscherjoch (2,275m). Daily distances average 11-17 km with moderate ascents. Includes charming accommodations, luggage transfers, and a guided tour of medieval Sterzing.

Do you have questions about this tour?

Accommodations with that special something – that’s what awaits you on the Alpine crossing from Tegernsee to Sterzing. Immerse yourself in an unforgettable hiking experience through a picturesque, storybook landscape that stretches from the idyllic Lake Tegernsee to the sparkling Lake Achensee, through the enchanting Zillertal Valley, all the way to Sterzing. Every step reveals new, breathtaking views and fascinating landscapes that are constantly changing. Experience traditional Bavarian culture up close, feel the warm hospitality of Tyrol, and indulge yourself to the culinary delights of South Tyrol, accompanied by the region’s delicious wines. Make your dream of hiking across the Alps a reality and set out now on an unforgettable adventure.

You begin this hiking adventure with a leisurely circular route along the Tegernsee High Trail. Stop by the brewery and take the ferry for breathtaking views. From Bad Wiessee, the route leads you over the Gaisalm and the Blaubergalm to Achenkirch. Once you arrive in Tyrol, you'll hike along the stunning western shore of Lake Achensee, spending the night in Fügen. Day 5 brings more scenic vistas as you first take the gondola to Spieljoch. From there, you'll pass through the Gart Alm and over the Loassattel to reach the winter sports resort of Hochfügen.

In the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, you’ll enjoy the panoramic view from Sidanjoch, overlooking the Karwendel and Tux Alps. Just before reaching Melchboden, you’ll pass picturesque lakes, and from there, take the Zillertal Railway to your next overnight stop. The final kilometers of your hike will take you from the Schlegeis Reservoir to the Pfitscherjoch. Waterfalls line the path as you traverse the main alpine ridge, followed by a descent into Sterzing.

  • Gorgeous panoramas and picturesque lakeside paths on Lake Achensee: The largest lake in Tyrol awaits you with its crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the majestic Karwendel mountains. You'll hike along the Gaisalm trail and treat yourself to a refreshing dip in the summer temperatures.
  • Spectacular hiking on the Spieljoch: The vistas of the Zillertal and the majestic mountain ranges surrounding it are nothing short of awe-inspiring. As you journey along, you'll be captivated by vibrant alpine meadows in full bloom, lush, dense forests, and tranquil mountain lakes that create a picture-perfect landscape.
  • Lake views at over 1,800 meters: Nestled in a breathtaking high alpine setting, the Schlegeis Reservoir is a true gem surrounded by towering mountain peaks. As you traverse the route, you’ll encounter glistening waterfalls and charming alpine pastures. The view from the dam is simply stunning, providing a captivating contrast to the untouched beauty of the landscape.

Crossing the Alps demands good physical fitness and surefootedness, but you'll be rewarded time and again with breathtaking views. In the evenings, unwind in charming hotels, most of which feature inviting wellness areas. You’ll conquer up to 17 kilometers per stage, spending up to six hours on your feet. The travel package includes various transfers, a mountain ride to Spieljoch, and a guided city tour in Sterzing.

On the route from Tegernsee to South Tyrol, you'll visit three countries. Hiking tours in Germany are a top choice for many outdoor enthusiasts, as the country offers an impressive range of options for your active holiday.

Itinerary at a glance

Experience Bavarian culture in the brewery on Lake Tegernsee, enjoy regional delicacies in the rustic Blaubergalm and cool off in Lake Achensee. For a successful finale, explore the charming town of Sterzing.
Day
01

Arrival to Bad Wiessee

After a short bus ride, your Alpine crossing adventure begins in Gmund with a first half-day hike on the Tegernseer Höhenweg trail, which runs around 100 meters above the northern shore to the intermediate destination of Tegernsee (town). Fantastic views await you on this easy introductory stage - a visit to the brewery directly on the lake is also a must. After a short crossing with the unique rowing ferry to Rottach-Egern, you walk along the lake to your overnight stay in Bad Wiessee on the south side. Alternatively, you can use the boat trip to shorten the hike.

Transfer to the starting point of your hike to Kreuth-Siebenhütten. Through lush mixed forest to the first mountain pasture region of the unmanaged Gaisalm. Over a gentle ridge you finally reach the border ridge between Bavaria and Tyrol, surrounded by the characteristic mountain pine vegetation. Impressive panoramas open up from the foothills of the Tegernsee to the Karwendel and Zillertal Alps. After around three hours, you can enjoy a welcome refreshment stop at the rustic Blaubergalm, the only refreshment stop on this stage. On easy paths through the former Habsburg hunting grounds, you hike down into the valley to Achenwald and Achenkirch.

Often called the most beautiful hiking trail in Tyrol, today's stage on the western shore of Lake Achensee is enchanting. You hike along the well-maintained trail with easy up and down sections to the Gaisalm. The path to the only alpine pasture in Tyrol that is only accessible on foot or by boat impresses with a fascinating mix of landscapes with waterfalls, varied vegetation and moraine cones almost at close quarters above the Tyrolean fjord. Via Pertisau along the lakeside path to Maurach, also the departure point of the nostalgic Achenseebahn. You then leave the Achensee region and reach Fügen in the Zillertal valley by train and bus.

Float effortlessly by cable car up to the Spieljoch at an altitude of almost 1,850 m and enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the mountains of the Zillertal, Karwendel and Rofan mountains and even as far as the Kitzbühel Alps and the Kaiser Mountains. A wonderful trail between mountain pines, alpine roses, Swiss stone pine trees and granite stones takes you via the Gart Alm, where you can enjoy a delicious Kaiserschmarren, to the Loassattel and finally on to the Alpengasthaus Loas. After a rest and refreshment stop, the route takes you comfortably along a partly shady hiking trail to the famous winter sports resort of Hochfügen.

Accompanied by rocks polished by the glacier, you finally reach the Sidanjoch. The nearby Rastkogelhütte rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view over the Inntal valley, the Karwendel mountains and the majestic Tux Alps. After a short ascent to the Mitterwandskopf, you follow a picturesque path that leads you past impressive relics of the Ice Age and small lakes to the Melchboden. From here, you can take a comfortable bus ride down the picturesque Zillertaler Höhenstraße. Depending on where you stay overnight, continue by bus or Zillertalbahn to Aschau or Mayrhofen.

In the morning, a comfortable bus ride takes you to the Schlegeis reservoir at 1,800 m. Along a well-maintained hiking trail, a moderate ascent to the Pfitscherjoch through a landscape characterized by scree and stone moraines, accompanied by rushing streams and waterfalls. Before reaching the Pfitscherjochhaus, you cross the border into South Tyrol and reach the high point of the day at 2,275 m - the crossing of the main Alpine ridge. You hike through gentle alpine pastures and later shady mixed forests down into the Pfitschtal valley where a transfer takes you to Sterzing. 

Enjoy the picturesque atmosphere of this charming Alpine town today. Explore the well-preserved medieval alleyways and picturesque squares lined with historic buildings. Visit the Wipptal Museum to learn more about the history and culture of the region or take a leisurely stroll along the River Eisack. Sterzing is also known for its excellent shopping opportunities, especially for high-quality Tyrolean craftsmanship and regional products.

Day
09

Departure or extension

Itinerary at a glance

Experience Bavarian culture at the ‘Brauhaus am Tegernsee’, savour regional specialities at the rustic Blaubergalm, and take a refreshing dip in Lake Achensee. As a crowning finale, explore the charming town of Sterzing.

Your Alpine crossing begins at the picturesque Lake Tegernsee. Make the most of your arrival day to settle in at a leisurely pace and enjoy the magnificent panoramic views.

After a short bus ride, your adventure begins in Gmund with a half-day hike along the Lake Tegernsee High Trail, which runs about 100 meters above the north shore, to your first stop, the town of Tegernsee. Stunning views await you on this easy introductory stage – and a visit to the brewery right by the lake is a must. After a short crossing on the unique rowing ferry to Rottach-Egern, you’ll hike along the lake to your accommodation in Bad Wiessee, situated on the southern shore. Alternatively, you can take the boat to shorten the hike.

Transfer to the starting point of your hike in Kreuth-Siebenhütten. Through lush mixed forest into the first alpine pasture region, the unmanaged Gaisalm. Crossing a gentle mountain ridge, you’ll eventually reach the Bavaria–Tyrol border ridge, surrounded by the characteristic mountain pine vegetation. Along the way, impressive panoramic views open up, stretching from the foothills of the Alps around Lake Tegernsee to the Karwendel and Zillertal Alps. After about three hours, you can enjoy a welcome refreshment at the rustic Blaubergalm, the only place to stop for food on this stage. Following easy trails through the former hunting grounds of the Habsburgs, you’ll hike down into the valley toward Achenwald or Achenkirch.

Often described as Tyrol’s most beautiful hiking trail, today’s stage along the western shore of Lake Achensee is truly enchanting. You’ll hike along a well-maintained trail with gentle ascents and descents all the way to the Gaisalm. The route to Tyrol’s only alpine pasture accessible only on foot or by boat offers a fascinating mix of landscapes, including waterfalls, varied vegetation and moraine cones, all just a stone's throw above the Tyrolean fjord. Via Pertisau along the lakeside path to Maurach, which is also the departure point for the nostalgic Lake Achensee Railway. You'll then leave the Lake Achensee region and travel by train and bus to Fügen in the Zillertal Valley.

You'll float effortlessly by cable car up to the Spieljoch, at an altitude of just under 1,850 m, and enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the mountain scenery of the Zillertal Valley, the Karwendel and the Rofan Mountains, and even as far as the Kitzbühel Alps and the Kaiser Mountains. A beautiful trail winding through mountain pines, alpine roses, Swiss stone pines and granite boulders takes you past the Gart Alm – where you can enjoy a delicious Kaiserschmarren – to the Loassattel and finally on to the mountain inn Loas. After a rest and a bite to eat, the route continues along a partly shaded footpath to the well-known winter sports resort of Hochfügen.

Surrounded by rocks polished smooth by the glacier, you’ll reach the Sidanjoch. The nearby Rastkogel Hut rewards you with a breathtaking panoramic view over the Inn Valley, the Karwendel Mountains, and the majestic Tux Alps. After a short ascent to the Mitterwandskopf, you’ll follow a picturesque trail that leads you past impressive relics from the Ice Age and small lakes to the Melchboden. From here, you can then take a comfortable ride down the valley on the local bus along the scenic Zillertal High Road and continue on the Zillertal Valley Railway to your accommodation.

In the morning, you’ll enjoy a comfortable shuttle to the Schlegeis Reservoir at 1,800 m. Following a well-maintained hiking trail with a moderate ascent, you’ll make your way up to the Pfitscherjoch through a landscape characterised by scree and rock moraines, accompanied by rushing streams and waterfalls. Just before the Pfitscherjochhaus, you’ll cross the border into South Tyrol and reach the highlight of the day at 2,275 m – the crossing of the main ridge of the Alps. Hiking through gentle alpine meadows and later through shady mixed forests down into the Pfitsch Valley, from where you will then be taken by transfer to your hotel in Sterzing.

Today, enjoy the picturesque atmosphere of this charming Alpine town, which is also Italy’s northernmost city. Explore the well-preserved medieval alleys and magnificent squares, lined with historic buildings. Visit a museum to learn more about the region’s history and culture, or take a leisurely stroll along the Eisack River. Sterzing is also known for its excellent shopping, particularly for high-quality Tyrolean craftsmanship and regional products.

Organized return transfer by shuttle bus from Sterzing to Lake Tegernsee, or the option to extend your stay.

Difficulty level

Mountain Hiking

The tour requires a good basic level of fitness and surefootedness. You hike on very well-maintained hiking trails, forest roads and paths. On the Achenkirch-Fügen stage, a head for heights is an advantage for the somewhat narrower climb along the lake. However, if in doubt, this can also be avoided or bypassed.

Difficulty level

Mountain Hiking

The tour requires a good basic physical fitness and sure-footedness. You'll hike on very well-maintained footpaths, forest tracks and trails. On the section from Achenkirch to Fügen, a head for heights is an advantage on the narrow path along the lake. However, if in doubt, this section can also be bypassed on foot or by public transport.

Prices & Dates

Category: see description

Prices per person in EUR

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation in hotels with charm
  • Breakfast
  • 6 dinners (at Lake Tegernsee only breakfast)
  • Luggage transfer
  • Transfer Bad Wiessee – Kreuth-Siebenhütten
  • Transfer Aschau/Mayrhofen – Schlegeis reservoir
  • Return transfer Sterzing – Lake Tegernsee

  • 1 cable car ride Spieljoch
  • Guided city tour in Sterzing
  • Travel documents package incl. GPS-data and route book, 1x per room
  • Service hotline

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Arrival by train to Gmund at Lake Tegernsee and by bus on to Bad Wiessee
  • Munich airport
  • Parking: private parking spaces, approx. EUR 35 per week, reservation necessary
  • Organised return transfer to Lake Tegernsee by shuttle bus in approx. 3 hours, included in the tour price

Things to note

  • Tourist tax, if due, is included in the price.
  • Rides by public transport, approx. EUR 60 per person
  • Minimum number of participants: 2 persons
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
  • This tour is a partner tour.

Services & Information

Further details about this tour

Included

  • Accommodation in hotels with charm
  • Breakfast
  • 6 dinners (at Lake Tegernsee only breakfast)
  • Luggage transfer (1 piece of luggage per person, max. 20 kg)
  • Transfers Bad Wiessee – Kreuth-Siebenhütten, Mayrhofen/Aschau – Schlegeis Reservoir and Pfitsch Valley – Sterzing

  • 1 return transfer Sterzing – Lake Tegernsee
  • 1 cable car ride Spieljochbahn
  • 1 guided city tour in Sterzing
  • Travel documents package incl. GPS-data and route book, 1x per room
  • Service hotline

Arrival / Parking / Departure

  • Arrival by train to Gmund at Lake Tegernsee and continue by bus to Bad Wiessee (www.bahn.de, www.oebb.at)
  • Munich airport
  • Parking: private parking spaces in Gmund at Lake Tegernsee, costs approx. EUR 35 per week, reservation is necessary
  • Organized return transfer from Sterzing to Lake Tegernsee, included in the price

Things to note

  • Tourist tax, if due, is included in the price.
  • Rides by public transport, costs approx. EUR 25 per person
  • Minimum number of participants: 2 persons
  • Further important information according to the package travel law can be found here!
  • This tour is a partner tour.

Our HOTELS

Relax in our charming accommodations along your walking tour

Stephanie Erbschwendtner

"We look forward to making your holiday dreams come true"

Stephanie Erbschwendtner
Travel Specialist
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Friday: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
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