Picture this: a fairytale village where every corner looks like it was ripped straight from a postcard, surrounded by some of Germany’s most spectacular mountains. Welcome to Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden – one of the most picturesque villages in Germany that’s about to become your new favorite destination.
History at a Glance
The history of Ramsau began with the founding of the Berchtesgaden Abbey in the year 1121, when brave monastery brothers cleared dark forests and steep rocky peaks to create this mountain paradise. In the late 13th century, Ramsau was first mentioned in historical documents as “Ramsaw,” and the village has been enchanting visitors ever since.
Fast-forward to today: Ramsau became Germany’s first mountaineering village in 2015 and has been a national park community since 1978. This tiny village of around 1,800 people sits 35 km south of Salzburg and 150 km south-east of Munich, perfectly positioned for your Alpine adventure.
Mind-Blowing Fun Facts
Did you know? Joseph Mohr, the priest who wrote the lyrics to the Christmas carol “Silent Night,” served at this church briefly. Talk about a claim to fame! Even cooler? General Eisenhower was so impressed he did an oil painting of this scene after the war.
The village boasts arguably the highest number of mountain guides in Bavaria and the whole of Germany – so you know you’re in good hands for any outdoor adventure. Plus, the Zauberwald (Enchanted Forest) was formed by a rockfall a few thousand years ago, creating those magical nooks and crannies that make it feel like stepping into a fantasy novel.
Popularity & User Ratings
Here’s the scoop on what fellow travelers think: Tripadvisor has 4,512 reviews of Ramsau attractions, hotels, and restaurants, making it a well-reviewed destination. The consensus? People absolutely love it here.
Peak season alert: 75% of tourists visit in July and August, but honestly, visitor numbers in Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden remain generally unchanged throughout the year. Translation? It’s gorgeous year-round, but if you want fewer crowds and better deals, consider visiting during shoulder seasons.
Accommodation: From Cozy to Campervan-Ready
Hotels & Traditional Stays
You’ll find everything from charming 3-star guesthouses to luxurious 5-star hotels. Whether you’re seeking adventure, a pet-friendly stay, or a business-themed experience, you’ll find the perfect lodging to suit your needs.
Campervan & Camping Options
For the adventurous souls traveling by campervan, here’s the real deal: The entire Berchtesgaden area welcomes campers at designated campsites for tents, trailers and motorhomes.
Specific camping options include:
- Camping Simonhof, Familie Grassl, Alte Reichenhaller Str. 110, 83486 Ramsau, Tel.: +49-8657-284
- There are 1 entries in the camping category of the Ramsau accommodation listing
Wild camping spots: Free parking where overnight stays seems to be tolerated exists at Hinterseer Straße, though overnight stay is prohibited at some locations. Always check current regulations and be respectful of local rules.
Summer Activities & Attractions: Your Adventure Playground
Must-See Natural Wonders
1. Hintersee Lake – Often billed as Germany’s most beautiful alpine lake, this crystal-clear beauty offers a varied bank hike around the Hintersee suitable for the whole family.
2. Zauberwald (Enchanted Forest) – There’s a river flowing through the gorge, with incredibly clear (albeit incredibly cold!) water of the clearest blue. It’s basically nature’s own theme park.
3. Wimbachklamm Gorge – The waterfalls and the greenery in the gorge are beautiful, and Wimbach Valley is everything that you ever thought of for alpine meadows.
4. Parish Church of St. Sebastian – The church of Ramsau is often on postcards, typically captured from the “Malereck” (literally painter’s corner). This Instagram-worthy spot is the quintessential picture of Germany, the one used on every tourist brochure.
Hiking Paradise
AllTrails has 35 scenic trails in the Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden area, including 8 easy hiking trails perfect for families. Popular routes include:
- Hintersee Circuit – 5.4 mi estimated 2h 44m
- Wimbachklamm & Wimbachschloss – 5.4 mi estimated 2h 44m with waterfalls and mountain views
- SalzAlpenTour Ramsauer Schattseitweg – 9.9 mi estimated 4h 53m, a certified premium hiking trail
Summer Fun for Everyone
- Lake Activities: Rent pedal boats or rowing boats on Hintersee
- Mountain Railways: The ski lifts still operate in the summer, so if you’re not big on hiking, take a ride to the top of the mountain for those picturesque alpine views
- Family Adventures: Outdoor adventures including skiing, hiking, and exploring picturesque trails perfect for all skill levels
Winter Wonderland Activities
Don’t think the magic stops when snow falls! In winter, the region is transformed into a paradise for skiers, snowboarders and cross-country skiers with perfectly groomed slopes and trails.
Winter highlights:
- Hochschwarzeck Ski Area – Although Ramsau’s Hochschwarzeck alpine resort is a little smaller than some of the other resorts you’ll find in Bavaria, that gives it more of a local feel
- Ice Activities: In the wintertime, when Hintersee freezes, enjoy a round of ice-skating or partake in a game of curling
- Cross-Country Skiing at Aschauerweiher Recreation Center
- Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing on marked trails
Events & Festivals You Can’t Miss
Traditional Bavarian Celebrations:
- Almfest (Alpine Festival) – The traditional Almfest (alpine festival) in summer, where you can experience the local culture up close
- Herbstfest (Fall Festival) – This is the time of Almabtrieb, or the time when the cows are brought down from the summer pastures to the lower winter grazing areas
- Christmas Markets – The Christkindlmarkt at Christmas time also attracts many visitors every year
Regular Events:
- Sonnwendfeuer des FC Ramsau (Midsummer Fire Festival)
- Ramsauer Dorffest (Village Festival)
- Traditional Bavarian music every Sunday and holiday from April to November at Berggasthof Gerstreit
Getting There & Around
By Car: About 2.5 hours from Munich, Germany By Train: Take a train to Berchtesgaden station, which is the nearest train station to Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden. From there, you can take a bus or taxi By Air: The nearest major airport is Salzburg (SZG-W.A. Mozart), located 16 miles away
Local Transportation Pro Tip: For 16 Euros, you can get a Day Ticket that gives you unlimited rides on the local buses as well as the bus or train to Salzburg. Plus discounts on lots of local attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Summer (June-September): Perfect for hiking, lake activities, and festivals Winter (December-March): Ideal for skiing and winter sports Shoulder Seasons (May, October): If you prefer fewer crowds, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder months of May, September, or October
Food & Local Flavors
The regional cuisine is characterised by hearty dishes such as “Schweinsbraten” (roast pork) or “Kaiserschmarrn” (pancakes) and is often accompanied by a cool beer. From various types of wurst (sausages) to spätzle (noodles) to pretzels and more, you’re sure to love everything you taste here.
Final Thoughts
Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience that touches your soul. Whether you’re hiking through enchanted forests, skiing down pristine slopes, or simply soaking in the Alpine atmosphere with a local beer, this village offers something magical for every type of traveler.
From solo adventurers to families with kids, outdoor enthusiasts to culture seekers, couples on romantic getaways to groups of friends – everyone finds their happy place here. The combination of stunning natural beauty, rich history, warm hospitality, and endless activities makes Ramsau bei Berchtesgaden a destination that’ll have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.
Bottom line: This is Bavaria at its absolute finest, and it’s waiting for you to discover its magic.
