Rottach-Egern

Perfect peaks, historic villages and sky-high gondolas in the Bavarian Alps

Tucked into Lake Tegernsee’s southern shore, cradled by the Mangfall Mountains, the Bavarian city of Rottach-Egern is where traditional alpine charm meets cosmopolitan schick. With a history steeped in 11th century monastic roots, discover a mix of hamlets and villages that offer everything from Michelin-starred restaurants, lakeside saunas and luxury boutique stores to rejuvenating hikes. It’s easy to appreciate why this region has long been a retreat for nobles, artists, gourmands and spa-lovers drawn to its healing waters and renowned bioclimate.

Things to do

FAMILY ACTIVITIES
Clamber up the Wallberg and be rewarded with panoramic views across the Tegernsee Valley – ideal for hikers and skiers of all ages and abilities. Thrill-seeking tobogganers can glide down from the top of the mountain station, one of Germany’s longest and most challenging natural sledding runs. For some gentler fun, explore the edelweiss-strewn meadow paths threading through the Mangfall Valley. And don’t miss travelling back through time at the Kutschenmuseum. This restored Gsotthaberhof farmhouse is filled with centuries-old coaches, carriages, and sledges from when horse-drawn elegance still reigned – the 1780 Landauer Stagecoach displayed here is a particularly special exhibit. 

LANDMARKS
From medieval to modern, Rottach-Egern is rich in treasures. Admire the needle-like spire of the Church of St. Laurentius, magically reflected on Tegernsee Lake. Then walk into this 12th century Gothic masterpiece, blended with Baroque stucco work finery and stunning outside wall fresco depicting the Crucifixion. In Staudach on the Weissach River is the base station of the famous Wallbergbahn gondolas. Don’t miss booking a trip on this feat of engineering – it’s been carrying visitors skywards since 1951 for mountain air and nature-filled walks. Meanwhile down in lively Rottach, charming boutiques and cosy restaurants line the promenade. 

WATER
The crystal-clear emerald Lake Tegernsee is renowned for being a genuine fountain of youth thanks to its anti-ageing iodine-rich water used by nearby spas in their therapies. Head to Seestrasse where ferries and pleasure boats criss-cross all day long, including the MS Rottach-Egern and MS Tegernsee which feature play facilities for children. Swim, sail, or simply sit by the shore in an idyllic beer garden and see why painters love capturing this unique horizon. Families can also plunge into See- und Warmbad – complete with a toddler splash zone, lazy river, Olympic sized swimming pool, water slides and even a sandy beach that feels borrowed from the Mediterranean.

Top Tip from SLH

Tuck into local specialities like Bavarian Bouillabaisse, using the cheeks of the char fish, and Hirschbraten – roast venison served with spätzle egg dumplings.