Discover Ettal: Monastic Culture and Moorland

The monastery complex and its basilica shape the townscape of Ettal. Nearby, Ettaler Weidmoos offers a distinctive natural landscape. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Ettal, you can tailor your stay to a range of interests: architecture and history, guided tours or the landscape of the nearby moorland.

Monastery Complex, Basilica and Living Traditions

Construction of the church at Ettal Monastery began in 1330. The churchyard, or inner courtyard, measures approximately 100 × 100 metres and has been the centre of the complex since the monastery was founded. Inside the basilica, you will encounter two architectural styles: after a devastating fire in the 18th century, it was redesigned in Baroque and Neoclassical styles. The history of the complex can thus be seen both in its medieval beginnings and in its later redesign.

A special religious focal point is the Ettal miraculous image: the venerated figure of Mary has been at the heart of the basilica for almost 700 years and is a destination for many pilgrims. Local traditions also have a long history. The traditional costume association “Ettaler Manndl” was founded in 1899 to preserve and promote the Werdenfels traditional costume and to foster music. These cultural themes give your stay a different focus from the nature experiences in the surrounding area.

Nearby is also the St. Gertrude’s Chapel in Dickelschwaig, a separate locality. Ettal Monastery had it built in 1694. Linderhof Palace is another nearby destination: King Ludwig II had it built between 1869 and 1877. In 1886, six weeks after the king’s death, it was opened to visitors.

Planning Tours and Visits

The monastery offers tours of the basilica, the historic brewery and the liqueur manufactory. You can join public tours by booking in advance; groups of ten or more are asked to register beforehand. The brewery and liqueur manufactory can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Before making plans, check the monastery’s current information on dates and reservations.

On a brewery tour, you will learn how Ettal beer is brewed using traditional methods, followed by a tasting. If you are especially interested in production and monastic culture, this experience offers a specific insight into both. The tour is also the designated way to visit the brewery.

Weidmoos and Outdoor Activities

Ettaler Weidmoos covers 159 hectares and was designated a nature reserve in 1982. Its water conditions make it unusual among Bavarian moors: transitional complexes and small raised-bog islands characterise the area. Around the spring pools of the Ammer springs, moorland and floodplain habitats are closely interwoven. The species-rich wet meadows are home to numerous orchid species, as well as marsh gentian, bog gentian and fringed pink. Birds found in Weidmoos include the stonechat, red-backed shrike, coal tit and tree pipit; which birds you may see can vary.

Visitors must follow conservation rules: in the nature reserve, you must stay on the paths, including when walking dogs; bathing in the water springs should be avoided. Camping, parking outside designated areas and lighting fires are prohibited. Also follow the rules posted on site. Another option for outdoor activity is the mountain hike to Ettaler Manndl, which starts and ends at Ettal Monastery and includes a via ferrata. The via ferrata at the summit requires suitable equipment.

Take the train to Oberau station, then take bus 326 (Garmisch-Partenkirchen–Füssen) to the Klostergasthof stop at Ettal Monastery. Check the current timetable and service before travelling.

More Ways to Experience Garmisch-Partenkirchen

The wider destination of Garmisch-Partenkirchen offers more independent experiences to choose from. In Partnach Gorge, visitors can experience the water rushing below between massive rock walls. At 1,780 metres, Mount Wank, Partenkirchen’s local mountain, is ideal for leisurely mountain hikes with far-reaching views. These attractions complement Ettal’s monastic culture and moorland landscape with another perspective on the destination of Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Discover more destinations: Oberau, Farchant, Bad Kohlgrub, Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Saulgrub, Grainau, Riegsee, Unterammergau.

Return to the wider travel overview: Garmisch-Partenkirchen.