Breathtaking locations for hiking elopements in the Austrian and German Alps
Breathtaking locations for hiking elopements in the Austrian and German Alps
Hiking elopements in the Austrian and German Alps are perfect for those who love lots of greenery, dips in cool lakes, and warm traditional food along the way. The valleys are lush and filled with wildflowers, while the high alpine summits provide expansive views. From the pre Alps of Bavaria, to the highest peaks in Tirol, the Austrian and German alps are two stunning regions to elope.
What’s the difference between the two?
The German alps are a smaller mountain region, concentrated on the very southern border of Germany. They are generally lower than the Austrian Alps and lack glaciers.
The Austrian Alps are more expansive, higher in elevation and have a larger cable car infrastructure. For the most part, the landscapes look and feel similar, and Bavaria and Austria share similar traditions and styles of food, as well as the German language.
Best hiking elopement locations in Tirol, Austria
Tirol is the westernmost state of Austria, and boasts the most scenic mountains in the whole country. It encompasses cities like Salzburg, Innsbruck and St. Anton, and glaciers such as Stubai. When planning a hiking elopement in Austria, you’ll want to focus on locations in Tirol.
Karwendel Range
The Karwendel range straddles the border between Germany and Austria. It’s a quieter hiking area, with the famous Innsbruck Nordkette on the southernmost side. The valleys tucked away to the north of the Nordkette are extremely serene.
Stubai Valley and Glacier
Just 45 minutes from Innsbruck, the Stubai hiking and ski area is great for both summer and winter elopements.
Wilder Kaiser
This range is known for its rocky summits and romantic meadows, with a range of hiking from easy strolls to advanced via ferratas.
Zillertaler Alps
The Zillertaler Alps are great for those who want glacier views. Winter ski elopements are great in this area as well, as the ski areas are some of the best in the region, while less crowded than places like Ischgl or St. Anton.
ALSO CHECK OUT: K&C’s easy sunrise hiking elopement in Austria
Best hiking elopement locations in the German Alps (Bavaria)
The German Alps are concentrated within about 60-70km from the Austrian Border. It is the very southern region of Germany and only about 5% of Germany’s entire land area. That means most of the German Alps are visitable in a one week trip (although I recommend much longer!).
It is also home to Germany’s most famous castle, Schloss Neuschwanstein, which is worth a trip on its own.
Allgäuer Alps
This hiking area in Germany has some really impressive trails and higher alpine lakes if you’re willing to put in the work. For those who prefer not to, there’s also the Nebelhorn cable car.
Berchtesgaden National Park
This region has a number of lakes and is lush with water. It’s a green paradise and an expansive hiking area for all levels. The Jenerbahn cable car will take you over the Königsee for a bird’s eye view!
Chiemgau Alps
This region of Germany is much less frequented by tourists. It has a number of large lakes, rolling meadows, forests and lower peaks. It’s what is considered the “pre-alps.”
Zugspitze & Garmisch-Partenkirchen
The Zugspitze is Germany’s largest peak, serviced by the country’s engineering wonder, the Zugspitze cable car. On the southern side is the Austrian Zugspitz region, Ehrwald. This area is very busy, especially in summer, but not surprisingly the most beautiful as well.
ALSO CHECK OUT: Best season to elope in Germany
Looking for an elopement photographer based in Germany?
Hi, I’m Gina! I’m a photographer based in Germany, specializing in hiking elopements in the Austrian and German Alps. If you want someone local to the area who can help you put the pieces together, fill out my contact form. I can’t wait to hear more about your plans!
