The Ammergau Alps

Thousands of visitors flock to Oberammergau every 10 years to see the village's famous Passion Play.

However, even when the Play is not being performed there is plenty to see and do in this pretty village and the surrounding Ammergau region.

Oberammergau is situated in Bavaria, in the south of Germany, near to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, famous for its winter sports attractions such as skiing or ski jumping, with the Zugspitze, Germany's highest mountain, and the Austrian border a few kilometres away.

Close to Oberammergau are a number of enchanting lakes, like the Staffelsee or Kochelsee, set amidst the beautiful Bavarian scenery.

There is also the church of Wies (Wieskirche) in Steingaden, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. The former abbey of the Steingaden Premonstratensians was founded in the 12th century. The somewhat plain exterior of the church does not prepare the visitor for the splendour and magnificence of the rich and shimmering interior.

Also high on the list of places to visit are Ettal and Linderhof Palace and for sheer relaxation one of the region's spas.

For further information regarding the area, please also see the website of the Ammergau Alps.