Get active with winter hiking and cross-country skiing, or take a leisurely stroll to the most beautiful Christmas markets?
Snow-covered mountain landscapes, biting cold, and peaceful silence—what still feels like a distant dream will soon become reality again. Although the official start of winter isn’t until December 21, it’s time to start planning your winter vacation now!
How about a hiking getaway in the snow-covered Tegernsee Valley? Or a week of cross-country skiing at the foot of the Dolomites? For some Christmas spirit, cultural highlights, and culinary specialties, spend a long weekend at the Christmas market in Bad Tölz or at the Advent markets in the Tegernsee Valley.
Whether there’s snow or not, whether you’re looking for an active adventure or a relaxing getaway—we’ll show you the best tours for your winter vacation in the mountains!
Winter Magic in the Alpine Foothills
The Tegernsee Valley in the Upper Bavarian Alpine foothills is ideal for winter hiking thanks to the gentle inclines of its trails. The Tegernsee High Trail offers magnificent views of the lake and the snow-capped mountains. The glistening lake lends the whole atmosphere a magical quality—especially in the evening, when the lights are reflected in the water and, save for a gentle lapping, the entire valley sinks into silence. During the day, numerous alpine huts serving Bavarian delicacies, as well as the ducal fish farm and the Tegernseer Land natural cheese dairy, provide culinary highlights, souvenirs for those back home, and exciting breaks during your hike.
What makes the Tegernsee Winter Dream so special: You can choose between a four- or eight-day winter vacation—and you get to pick your own accommodations!
The neighboring regions also offer great opportunities for winter hiking. The mystical Kirchseemoor in the Tölzer Land, the panoramic high-altitude trail through the Blaue Land to Lake Kochel, the incredible 360-degree view from the Jochberg of Lake Walchensee, Kochelsee, and, with a little luck, even as far as Munich—these are just a few of the highlights waiting for you.
Enjoying Sports on a Sled and Cross-Country Skis
Does a whole week of cross-country skiing seem too monotonous to you? Combine it with a snowshoe hike and a ride down Italy’s longest snow-covered and illuminated toboggan run, and your week of winter activities will become an unforgettable experience!
Snowshoeing—have you ever tried it?
When there’s heavy snowfall and trudging through deep snow becomes too exhausting, snowshoes are a perfect alternative. You can rent the equipment at most ski rental shops for a reasonable price—and then you’re off up the mountain. In general, provided there’s enough snow, you can also tackle regular hiking trails with snowshoes. However, snowshoeing is even more fun off the beaten path—away from any trails or cross-country tracks—in deep powder snow, surrounded by pristine silence and dreamlike white landscapes.
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Is wintertime the same as Christmas time?
For all Christmas lovers, a visit to an Advent market is a must during the pre-Christmas season. So if you’re looking for the perfect blend of winter hiking and the Christmas spirit, our brand-new Feuer und Eis Tour is just what you need: Advent hiking between the Isar and Tegernsee. Over the course of 4 days, you’ll explore the region around Bad Tölz, hiking along the Isar to Lenggries and on to Tegernsee, and along the way you’ll visit four different Advent markets as well as an atmospheric nativity scene trail that enchants with its attention to detail.
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The Tölz Christmas Market is especially cozy and full of festive fun. In addition to the traditional stalls selling roasted almonds, hot punch, and hearty bratwurst, the Advent market in Bad Tölz also offers regional specialties from the Tölzer Land and handmade jewelry. As you stroll among the stalls, you can admire the picturesque Lüftlmalereien murals on the festively decorated houses. Special highlights include a guided tour of the town and, if desired, a visit to the over 100-year-old marionette theater.
What makes the Tölz Christmas Market special: It’s open daily from November 27 through December 24, 2026.
The Advent Magic at Lake Tegernsee is brimming with Christmas spirit. During the four Advent weekends leading up to Christmas, you can experience a magical pre-Christmas season at Lake Tegernsee. Three Advent markets around the lake—the Bad Wiessee Lake Advent, the Rottach Advent, and the Tegernsee Castle Market—invite you to enjoy mulled wine and gingerbread. A shuttle boat takes you across Lake Tegernsee from one market to the next, while the twinkling lights are reflected in the dark water.
With a “Feuer und Eis” package tour, you don’t have to choose a market (the shuttle boat ride is already included in the tour price)—but you do have to choose your accommodations. You can choose from three different inns, which vary slightly in price and amenities. All three accommodations are charming, family-run, and carefully selected places where you’ll feel right at home—and whether you choose a more affordable option or a more upscale one, they’re sure to be a relaxing choice for your Christmas vacation.