Southern Bavaria’s landscape is made to order for active travelers. Along with a stunning Alpine backdrop, the thickly forested slopes, deep lakes, winding paths and small towns provide plenty of inspiration to explore this area of Germany from the outside.

Within the borders of Berchtesgaden National Park, 160 miles of hiking trails await. Along the way, watch for mountain hares, ibex, marmots and golden eagles. Lunch can be enjoyed at a number of traditional lodges tucked into the mountains en route, and higher areas can be reached via the Jenner cable car. One of the oldest conservation areas in the Alps, the park is home to Lake Koenigssee. Slip into the water for a swim, or cruise along the surface on one of the sightseeing boats that operate during warmer months. Don’t miss the amazing trails through Ruhpolding, with almost 150 miles of paths, three lakes and the historic Staubfall smuggler’s route along the Staubfall River.