Thrusting above the city skyline, the snow-capped Bavarian Alps are easily reachable from Munich, making this an incomparable base for an active winter escape. Guests at The Charles Hotel can begin the day with breakfast in bed, enjoy a scenic transfer to snow-swept peaks for a day of alpine adventures, and be back in time for après-ski cocktails at Sophia’s. Here’s a selection of our favourite snowsporting destinations within easy reach of the city.
Hiking
For a family-friendly trek, discover the dramatic Partnachklamm in Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The only gorge that’s open year-round, visiting in winter is an opportunity to marvel at frozen waterfalls, frosted trees and enchanting bridges dripping with icicles along this easy 800-metre route.
For adults seeking a longer climb that’s nonetheless accomplishable in under a day, pull on some sturdy boots to ascend Hirschburg. Crunch through fresh powder snow, greeting local hikers along the way, and savour expansive views over the lake from the peak—a just reward for traversing 1,668 metres.
Expert hikers are spoiled for choice in the German Alps but for a real challenge, we recommend the Rumer Spitze. Towering over Innsbruck on the Austrian-German border, this behemoth rises to 2,445 metres at the summit and offers a two-day adventure for even the most experienced.
Sledding
There are several gentle inclines in and around Munich. Ideal for smaller sledders and novices, the Englischer Garten’s popular mini slope is just 15 meters high and prettily crowned by the Monopteros. Alternatively, Olympiaberg, Munich’s highest urban slope at 50 metres, offers a thrill for both adults and children with snow-tubing alongside its more sedate activities.
Make a day trip of your sledding adventure at Spitzingsee, an hour from the city by train or exclusive transfer, which our Concierge is happy to arrange. Rent a sled at the hut, which also serves delicious weisswurst, and speed down this exhilarating, snow-covered track alongside gleeful, adrenaline-loving locals.
Skiing and snowboarding
There are quite literally hundreds of ski and snow resorts in Bavaria. Highlights within 90 minutes include the popular Alpsee-Grünten, offering 20 kilometres of pistes; Oberjoch, almost always blanketed in natural snow, with descents beginning at over 1,200 metres; and Dammkar, Germany’s longest ski route at seven kilometres.
The inimitable must-ski is the mighty Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain at 3,000 metres. Its two ski areas, the World Cup downhill run and cross-country network, are reachable by a charming, vintage cogwheel railway offering breath-taking views during the ascent. There’s no feeling quite like standing on the pinnacle looking out over 400 mountain peaks in four countries with blue skies above you and sparkling snow as far as the eye can see.
Book our Zugspitze ski stay at The Charles Hotel this winter and experience not only the exhilaration of a visit to the peak, but the sparkling beauty of our Baccarat Christmas tree decorations. Email reservations.thecharles@roccofortehotels.com or call +49 89 544 555 1430.
Vivacious, glamorous, powerful. Few figures encapsulate the effortless grandeur of the Belle Époque quite like Donna Franca, our Sicilian muse. Famed for her petite frame, thick dark hair and an exquisite fashion sense that has endured for over a century, Franca was the epitome of an era that placed beauty and high fashion at its forefront.
The festive season brings its own kind of sparkle - a flurry of celebrations, feasts, and time with those who matter most. To make gifting simple, we’ve curated a selection of bespoke experiences to delight everyone on your list. From candlelit dinners and Italian wine tastings to tranquil spa escapes and moments devoted to yourself, each experience thoughtfully crafted to offer moments of joy.
Preparations were in full swing at the North Pole - ribbons tied, sleigh bells polished, and lists checked twice - yet Father Christmas kindly agreed to pause his busy schedule for an interview. We met him at SCOTCH at The Balmoral, just as the famous clocktower struck 12:03 - it stands watch over Waverley Station, running three minutes fast, so no one ever misses a train. Settled into a deep armchair with a favourite dram in hand, he shared his most treasured places to pause, indulge and unwind across Europe every festive season.
