Germany - King Ludwig's Way

9 days Self-Guided, Minimum 2 People, Seasonal Daily Departures

The Swan King, the Mad King, the Dream King - King Ludwig is synonymous with Germany. Most people's images of Germany will usually include the famous fairytale castles of Bavaria which are, in turn, synonymous with King Ludwig. What better way to discover this historically grand and culturally rich area than by following the long distance path named after this enigmatic ruler?

A short flight to Munich brings you to the heart of 'Fairytale' land where you embark on a route which takes you from the shores of Lake Starnberg, where the King met his end, past monastic churches of much architectural value including the UNESCO heritage site of Zimmermann's Church of Wies and on through the wild Bavarian forests. You eventually reach the Bridge of Maria from where you can see the entire route in one direction and in the other, the climax to the walk, the dramatic spectacle of the astonishing Neuschwanstein Castle, surely a castle like no other (except in Disneyland perhaps).

This is a nonstrenuous route along mostly lowland paths, a long distance path that is achievable for most average walkers with no more than 12-15 miles a day. A sense of completion amongst a wealth of history.

Day 1. Outbound

Fly to Munich and transfer to Diessen where you will receive your route notes and maps.

Days 2 and 3. To Wessobrun

After a transfer to Lake Starnberg you embark on the King Ludwig Way! This rolling path leads you through various attractive villages including Wessobrun, world-renowned for its architecture and convent.

Days 4 and 5. Views and Canyons

After climbing to 988 metres at Hohenpeissenberg for views of 80 nearby summits you come to the willowenclosed turquoise River Ammer and enter the impressive wooded canyon of Ammerschulcht. Continue to Rottenbuch with its lovely 12th century monastery and onto Wildsteig.

Days 6 and 7. Berghof and Buching

An area of high moors and magnificent forest, renowned throughout Bavaria for its wilderness, wildlife and folklore - the land of Grimms' Fairy Tales? Meander through the forest following the waymarks on the trees, passing shooting lodges and thirst-quenching streams. Take a morning to admire the colourful rococo splendours at the Weiskirche in Steingaden.

Day 8. Neuschwanstein Castle

Arriving on foot at the base of this extraordinary edifice one can truly appreciate the far-reaching visions of King Ludwig. Wanting to create a 'fantasy in stone' he succeeded in building what is arguably the world's most famous castle. It is a powerful magnet in the surrounding countryside and quite a climax to your walk. Continue to the town of Fuessen.

Day 9. Homeward

Transfer back to Munich to fly home.