Beyond Munich

The Bavaria Statue is on the west side of the Theresienwiese, an open air park, and is a symbol of Bavaria’s strength and glory. The bronze statue was designed by Ludwig Schwanthaler by order of King Ludwig I in 1837.

Visitors can climb the 126 steps inside to reach the viewing platform in the helmet. This vantage point provides spectacular views of the Theresienwiese and downtown Munich.

Just behind the statue, the three-winged Ruhmeshalle (Hall of Fame) was built to honour Bavaria’s acclaimed artists, politicians and scientists.

This Catholic church dates to the 12th century, when Count Berthold II ordered his subjects to make a pilgrimage to worship the relics in the chapel of St Nicholas.

Today’s pilgrims are rewarded in the aptly named “Pilgrim’s Tavern.” The monks of Kloster Andechs have been brewing beer for more than 1,000 years. Visitors can choose between seven different beers. The Doppelbock Dunkel contains 7 per cent alcohol and delivers a robust body with lingering velvety chocolate flavours.

The Zugspitze is Germany’s highest peak, rising 2,962 m above sea level. It offers one of the most spectacular views in the country. The cog wheel train is the best option up the mountain. It leaves from the Zugspitze railway station in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and arrives at Eibsee, an idyllic lakeside destination.

Composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756, and visitors can tour his home, which includes the clavichord on which he composed “The Magic Flute.”

The “Old Town” area is famous for its striking baroque architecture, and it’s where you’ll find one of the Museum of Modern Art’s buildings — the Rupertinum. Opened in 1983, it is dedicated to new artistic concepts. The museums other building, the Monschberg, is located on Monchsberg mountain and dedicated to contemporary art.

Of course, many “Sound of Music” sights are sprinkled around the city, including the fountain in Mirabell Gardens, which can be seen during the “Do-Re-Mi” song.

Roughly translated to “Kings Lake,” this huge fjord is famous for its clear water and alpine setting. Winter sports fans will recognise the famed bobsled track, the first artificially refrigerated course in the world.

Königssee gives you an opportunity to escape the autobahns and hectic beer gardens and enjoy a truly spectacular setting at the foot of the Alps. The lovely St. Bartholomä church is located on the western shore of the lake.