Postcard from Germany: Alpine Splendor in Bavaria

Kempinski Hotel Berchtesgaden‘s striking surroundings are the first thing you will notice on arrival. Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, the area is a hikers’ paradise in summer and a ski haven in winter, and the proximity to tons of family activities is one of the biggest draws for both the hotel and the region. We were able to please three generations of travelers in our short stopover.

Within 25 minutes you can be in Salzburg, walking in the footsteps of Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music, visiting Mozart’s birthplace or indulging in a famous Sachertorte while overlooking the river. Just south of Berchtesgaden is The Eagles Nest, Hitler’s former mountaintop base — a must-see for history buffs. And a few minutes by car will put you at a summer toboggan ride or a train tour of a salt mine.

If you are more interested in relaxing than being active (we sure were!), the Kempinski Berchtesgaden’s outdoor pool offers stunning views and is heated year round. Our toddler loved getting some water time when it normally would have been too cold outside, and the adults in our group loved relaxing amid the mountain vistas. In addition to nature’s playground all around, the hotel offers wonderful children’s programming at the kids’ club, great if mom and dad want a date night at a local Bavarian eatery in the town of Berchtesgaden. The food is spectacular — breakfast is one of the best we have ever had (complete with a play area for young kids), and the all-day dining menu has lots of options for picky eaters. Accommodations themselves are modern but cozy; most rooms have views and some have expansive terraces so you can enjoy the scenery at its best.

Relevant Links:

Browse all family-friendly accommodations and activities in Bavaria on Ciao Bambino

Why Bavaria, Germany is a dream destination for families

Essential tips for visiting Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle

72 hours in Munich with kids

Photo by Katie Brown.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.