Bavaria's Winter Wonderland: Snowfall And Scenery

Bavaria, located between the Isar River and the Alps, experiences cold air masses from the Alps each winter, making its capital city, Munich, the coldest city in Germany. The annual average snowfall in the region is 133 cm, and it snows pretty much every year in Munich, although the amount and arrival date vary. The snowy period in Munich is between November and March, with February usually seeing the most snowfall.

Bavaria is home to several ski resorts, including Bad Kohlgrub - Hörnle, Berchtesgadener Land, and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, offering a range of winter sports and activities for visitors to enjoy.

Snow in Munich

Munich, the capital of Bavaria, is located between the Isar River and the Alps at an altitude of over 500 meters. The city experiences cold air masses coming down from the Alps each winter, making it the coldest city in Germany. Munich has a mix of oceanic and humid continental climates, resulting in hot summers and freezing winters.

Yes, it snows in Munich almost every year, typically between November and March. The overall average snowfall during this period amounts to around 2.5 cm (1 inch) each month. While this may sound like a significant amount, heavy snowfall is quite rare in Munich, with most snowfalls occurring as light snow that may not last long on the ground. The amount of snowfall and the arrival date can vary from year to year.

The snow season in Munich usually begins in November and ends in March. February is typically the snowiest month, with an average snowfall of around 7 cm (2.7 inches). Conversely, February is also the driest month in Munich. In December, the city often transforms into a winter wonderland, with the famous red rooftops covered in a glittering blanket of snow.

• Get a bird's-eye view of the snow-covered city.
• Experience body-warming thermal baths.
• Sample some of Munich's best coffee.
• Witness the unique Krampus Run.
• Go sledding on the hills of Munich, such as in the Englischer Garten park.
• Visit the warm interior of Munich's museums.
• Indulge in a Bavarian hot chocolate or Glühwein at the Christmas markets.

Transportation and snow in Munich

Munich's public transport systems are efficient and well-equipped to handle snowfall. Even during periods of unusually high snow, public transport remains operational and generally runs on schedule. Cancellations and delays are rare, even in the coldest winters.

However, heavy snowfall in Munich can affect flight operations at the airport, with arriving and departing intervals tending to increase to ensure safety. These lengthened intervals may cause flight delays and cancellations.

Skiing in Bavaria

Bavaria, or Bayern, in Germany, is home to hundreds of ski resorts. The slopes benefit from reliable snow cover, with an annual average snowfall total of 133cm, and a modern lift system. The best skiing spots are less than 90 minutes from Munich, making it a great location for those travelling with non-skiers.

The German Alps, or Bavarian Alps, offer a range of skiing options for all abilities. The Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain at nearly 3000m, has slopes ranging from 2000-2830m. The Zugspitzgebiet resort is Germany's highest, and snowboarders will enjoy the fun park and halfpipe. The Zugspitze is also home to the Zugspitz glacier, which can be reached by cable car, and has a restaurant and sun terrace.

The Garmisch-Partenkirchen area offers skiing between 750-2050m, with 75km of downhill runs linked by 28 cable railways and ski lifts. The world-famous Kandahara and Olympic slopes are used for the annual World Cup Ski competition. The area also has 110km of cross-country skiing and ski schools specialising in cross-country training. The resort was the site of the 1936 Winter Olympics and is set to host the games again in 2018.

Other resorts in the Bavarian Alps include Alpsee-Grünten, with 20km of prepared pistes, Geißkopf, with a mix of pistes for all abilities, and St. Englmar, with 12 lifts and descents up to 2.5km in length. Brauneck/Lenggries has 34km of runs for all abilities, and is just 60km from Munich.

Bavaria has 257 ski resorts, with 809km of slopes, served by 643 ski lifts. The highest ski resorts reach up to 2720m, and the largest offer up to 42km of slopes.

Snowfall amounts

Bavaria's annual average snowfall total is 133 cm. However, snowfall amounts vary each year. In Munich, the overall average snowfall during the "snowy" period, which lasts from November to March, amounts to around 2.5 cm each month. While this may sound like a lot, heavy snowfall is quite rare in the city, with most snowfalls occurring as light snow that may not settle on the ground for too long.

February is typically the snowiest month in Munich, with an average snowfall of around 7 cm. Conversely, March is the month with the lowest snowfall during the city's snowy period.

In December, Munich is often covered in snow, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere that adds to the charm of the city's famous Christmas markets. The amount of snowfall in Munich can vary, and while it snows almost every year, the arrival date and the amount of snow can be unpredictable.

Snow-based activities

Bavaria is a winter wonderland, offering a range of snow-based activities for all interests and ages. The region is known for its heavy snowfall, providing the perfect setting for snow-based activities. Here are some of the top snow-based activities and experiences to enjoy during the winter months in Bavaria:

Skiing and Snowboarding

Bavaria is home to numerous ski resorts catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers. With an average annual snowfall of 133cm, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy fresh powder and well-groomed trails. The region boasts 88 ski resorts, including well-known locations such as Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Oberstdorf, and Mittenwald.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

For those who prefer a more tranquil winter activity, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are ideal. The Bavarian Forest and the Fichtel Mountains offer extensive trails for these activities, allowing explorers to immerse themselves in the serene beauty of Bavaria's winter landscapes. The Nagelfluhkette Nature Park and the area around Lake Schliersee are popular choices for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Tobogganing

Tobogganing is a beloved winter pastime in Bavaria, attracting both locals and visitors. The Wallberg mountain, overlooking the Tegernsee lake, boasts Germany's longest natural toboggan course, offering an exhilarating ride for thrill-seekers. The Zugspitze, Germany's tallest mountain, also provides year-round tobogganing opportunities, along with stunning views and culinary delights.

Winter Hiking

For a more relaxed pace, winter hiking in Bavaria allows individuals to explore the region's picturesque snow-covered valleys and mountains at their own pace. Designated winter hiking trails, such as the premium trail near Reit im Winkl, offer a safe and enjoyable experience. Full-moon snowshoe tours add a magical touch to the hiking experience.

Ice Skating

Bavaria also offers opportunities for ice skating enthusiasts. Many lakes in the region, such as Lake Königssee, freeze over during the winter, providing natural ice skating rinks surrounded by breathtaking scenery.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides

For a romantic and enchanting experience, horse-drawn carriage rides through the snow-covered landscapes are available in various locations across Bavaria. Bundle up, snuggle under a blanket, and take in the beauty of the winter wonderland.

Snow-friendly accommodations

Bavaria is a winter wonderland, with snow-covered landscapes, charming fairy-tale castles, and the highest mountain peaks. Here are some snow-friendly accommodations to consider when visiting this beautiful region of Germany:

Hotels

• Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten in Berchtesgaden: This hotel offers spacious rooms with balconies overlooking the town and surrounding mountains. It is well-located for exploring the eastern part of Bavaria and is within walking distance of local restaurants.
• Hotel Bachmair Weissach: Located an hour south of Munich, this hotel offers a unique blend of Zen and hunting lodge decor, with stunning mountain views. It provides easy access to skiing and tobogganing on Wallberg.
• Schloss Elmau: Tucked away in an Alpine mountain valley, about an hour west of Bachmair Weissach, Schloss Elmau offers a singular Bavarian experience. The hotel features daily concerts, multiple spas, nine restaurants, and an extensive library.
• Bachmair Weissach: This contemporary hotel, decorated with mahogany and deer skulls, offers fondue and other culinary delights.

Resorts

Garmisch-Partenkirchen: A resort town in the German countryside, known for its proximity to Neuschwanstein Castle and Zugspitze, the highest point in Germany.

Ski Resorts

• Steinplatte-Winklmoosalm
• Ofterschwang/Gunzesried
• Family Winterland Mitterdorf
• Arber
• Fellhorn/Kanzelwand
• Garmisch-Classic
• Sudelfeld
• Söllereck
• Nebelhorn
• Oberjoch
• Hörnerbahn
• Brauneck
• Nesselwang
• Spitzingsee-Tegernsee
• Rossfeld
• Alpspitz
• Breitenberg/Hochalpe
• Silberberg
• Bolsterlang
• Herzogstand
• Wallberg Tegernseer Tal
• Kranzberg
• And many more...

Frequently asked questions