Bavaria And Salzburg 19-24/2/23

Andy is repeating this trip as a Christmas Special, December 12th to 17th, taking in the Christmas Markets, Gluhwein, the walks and the spas :) BOOK HERE!

We left Cardiff late on the 18th February and picking up a couple more from near Bristol along the way we made our way to Gatwick for an early flight to Salzburg. From there it was by bus to Berchtesgaden and the museum there before heading to our accommodation.

This was planned as a walking and spa trip and this itinerary was well kept, with two day-long hikes, three spa visits, a half day of city walking and one sublime boat trip.

Sunday

On arrival we made our way to Bertchesgaden, had some pizza and a wander around the lovely museum then it was getting settled in the accommodation and catching up on sleep.

Monday

It was a fine day with walking on the Obersalzburg towards Hitler’s Berghof. We never made it as the snow was a problem but we did nearly get there! The walk through the forest was rather special with crisp clean snow and spectacular views. This evening we visited Watzmann Therme for sauna time, naked just as the Germans do.

Tuesday

We walked from the accommodation to Konigsee, a couple of miles of gorgeous valley walking, and then we boarded the electric boat to St Bartholomew’s Monastery and walking at this almost unbelievably beautiful location.

Wednesday

Today was scheduled in a ‘free day’ with the option to join Andy at the rather posh Rupertus Therme. Here it was warm enough to sunbathe in the open air with snow-capped mountains as the view! A traditional Austrian meal was had this evening in the Baroque city of Salzburg.

Thursday

The final day was a walking tour of the hills around Salzburg, giving a birds eye perspective of this ancient fortified city. This evening it was to the municipal spa with its salt rooftop infinity pool and half hourly wafting in the saunas by staff members.

Friday

The journey home was as expected on the Austrian side, efficient and reliable. Once in the UK the drive back to Wales was fraught with roadworks and interminable delays but we passed the time with car games and general chatter.