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Edelweiss Tour

A classic must tour I curated meticulously for your satisfactory. From a quaint rustic Chapel Bridge in Luzern, then to fascinating Mount Rigi to modern elevated steepest funicular in the world Stoosbahn. All to indulge your eyes.

The tour starts and ends in Zurich main station (or your hotel or place of stay in Zurich)

Private tour with your own guide for your group

11 - 12 hours

2 - 8 persons (larger groups possible)

Possible all year round. Summer and winter.

Click on "Get Quotation" below

Included: Consultation and Tour Planning, trainticket (2. class), bus, gondolas, entrance fees, portable Wifi, professional photography

Meals are not included

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Edelweiss Trail (Höhbalmen) (Nr. 30)

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Every mountain hiker dreams of spotting edelweiss in the alpine pastures. Here that dream comes true. Along this trail, walkers even spot these beautiful flowers at eye level. The walk leads to one of the finest vantage points in the Zermatt region.

• Type Mountain trail
• Difficulty hard
• Duration 7,30 h
• Distance 20,7 km
• Ascent 1195 m
• Descent 1195 m
• Lowest point 1605 m
• Highest point 2745 m

Description

The edelweiss can be admired at a variety of habitats in the Zermatt mountains. It won’t grow on ground formed of crystalline rock, but it flourishes on calcareous sediments – despite the often harsh conditions. The fleecy hairs help protect the flowers from solar radiation, frost and aridity. The seeds require exposure to frost before they can germinate the following year. Hikers on this trail experience a magical moment on the climb up to Trift as the pinnacle of the Matterhorn emerges unexpectedly from behind a hilltop. Who’ll spot it first? The path then continues to one of Zermatt’s finest viewpoints, at Höhbalmen. The panorama is breathtaking: the north face of the Matterhorn with the Zmuttgrat ridge, the Breithorn, Liskamm and the Monte Rosa massif.

• Edelweiss: a protected plant
• Information panels about the plants along the way
• Between the Gasthaus Edelweiss and the Berggasthaus Trift hotels: edelweiss at eye level (right-hand side)
• Unusual view of the Monte Rosa massif
• Possible encounters with Valais Blacknose sheep and Valais Blackneck goats

Zermatt (station) - Alterhaupt (Edelweiss) - Trift - Höhbalmen - Zmutt - Zermatt (station)

(Hiking time in reverse direction: approx. 7h 20)

This hike is marked on the signposts as “Edelweissweg Höhbalmen”.

We recommend:

• Good footwear
• Hiking poles (optional)
• Clothing suitable for the weather (always carry a waterproof)

Please do not feed the Valais Blackneck goats or the Valais Blacknose sheep. At Höhbalmen and on towards Hohliecht: keep an eye open for eagles, which occasionally circle in the skies above.

• Plan every mountain tour carefully and adapt to participants’ fitness level as well as the weather and season.
• Weather conditions can change quickly in the mountains. Appropriate clothing is therefore essential, along with adequate supplies of food and water. In uncertain weather, turn back in good time.
• Inform others of planned route, and whenever possible avoid going alone.
• Do not leave the marked routes; do not venture onto glaciers without a mountain guide.
• Please be considerate to other walkers and to plants and animals.
• Take note of the warning signs drawing attention to the constant danger in river beds and along watercourses below dams and reservoirs.

Map and arrival

Trift berggasthaus, viewpoint small bench at höhbalmen, hamlet of zmutt.

Experiences & activites

Gift Vouchers

AGM Zermatt Tourism: A magical financial year

Zermatt Tourism takes part in the biggest night in Hollywood

Grow beyond yourself with the Mammut Mountain School

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The best views in Switzerland

Where edelweiss is at home.

Want to get that holiday feeling at home? Edelweiss shows you how!

We name our aircraft after Swiss regions where edelweiss flowers grow. As a symbol of our partnership, a wooden Edelweiss bench has been installed at the best viewpoints on the Schatzalp, the Corvatsch and in Melchsee-Frutt. We would like to share these views with you and inspire you to discover Switzerland.

Looking for ideas for a hiking trip in the Swiss mountains? We provide you with all the information you need for the perfect trip to one of our Edelweiss benches – from travel, catering and accommodation to insider tips and special experiences.

You can also learn more about how we name our aircraft and experience the highlights from our aircraft christening celebrations.

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Edelweiss Tours - Swiss Alps Forum

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Has anyone heard of or used Edelweiss Tours? It's supposed to be specialize in small group tours using public transportation to go up the mountains and hike. They have a Best HIkes and Cities Tour that I'm interested in.

http://www.myswitzerland.com

I have noticed that there are more discussions about organized tours on the Fodor's forum.

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

I just looked at the Edelweiss Tours website and the specific tour you're interested in. That's a super simple itinerary and you're paying somebody to basically purchase a rail pass for you and book 3 different hotels and walk you to the train. All of those things you can do quite simply by yourself, and I'm guessing you would pick a much better hotel and location than the tour company will give you.

They're sticking you in Wilderswil for your entire time other than the 1st and last nights. Wilderswil is not bad, but there are MUCH more interesting and beautiful locations to stay. It's about 10 train minutes from the Lauterbrunnen Valley which is about the most beautiful place in the world...so why wouldn't you just STAY in the Lauterbrunnen Valley in one of the many nice hotels or B&Bs? They take you "almost" to Murren on one of your day trips. Murren is a spectacularly beautiful place. The tour company is also hopping you around to many different places and then bringing you all the back at the end of each day...too much travel time. Stay put and see the things that are already near you. Zermatt??? No way - just getting there and back in the same day will waste 5 hours.

I just think you can do a whole lot better for less money and have more enjoyment on your own.

I too have read through the brochure for the tour. First, I agree TN regarding the placement in Wilderswil! As I understand it, you wil take a day trip from Wilderwill to Zermatt to go up to the Gornergat. Not a good idea, the weather is too unpredictable. This is a long day trip!

At this time of year, you should be able to find a decent room with breakfast for two for 200sf per night!! There will be less rooms available but if you use the websites below you can book it yourself.

Don't stay in Wilderswill! That is a cheaper alternative for the tour company. Stay either in Lauterbrunnen or Wengen. When you decide to Go to Zermatt , go and say overnight!! Take your time to to go up to the Gornergrat (currently with a Swiss pass it will cost an additional 42sf)

There is no mention of a trip to Jungfrauhoch included or a trip to the Schilthorn included, either!

If you decide to venture out on your own or with friends, please repost with questions.

In the meantime look at the following websites to provide you with further information.

http://www.zermatt.ch

http://www.jungfrauregion.ch

http://www.gornergratbahn.ch/en/Pages/default.aspx

There are lots of folks here to assist you if you want to venture out on your own!

The Trains are very simple to use, efficient and extensive.

Hope you repost!

Yes, if you go to Zermatt then STAY in Zermatt. Thun as a daytrip and the loveliest city in Switzerland ??? Since they're flying home from Zurich why didn't the company just take you to Lucerne which is "lovelier" than Thun and only about 50 minutes away from Zurich?

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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The mystical and mythical edelweiss

The edelweiss, a delicate mountain flower with furry white petals, is so strongly associated with the Alps it is hard to believe it originated in the Himalayas and Siberia. It was not until the second half of the 19th century that what botanists in Zurich previously called the ‘wool flower’ became widely known as edelweiss and took on a special cult status in Switzerland. The flower has attracted admirers and critics over the years but remains one of the most iconic images of Switzerland, adorning everything from airlines to coins to the logo for the Swiss tourism office.

A flower of many flowers and with many names

The edelweiss, or Leontopodium alpinum as it is scientifically known, is technically not a single flower but more than 50 to 500 tiny florets clustered in 2 to 12 yellow flower heads (capitula), surrounded by 5 to 15 velvety white leaves (bracts) arranged in the shape of a star.

Scientists believe the flower migrated from Asia to the Alps during the Ice Age. Today, it can be found in many Alpine countries at high altitudes (2,000 to 3,000 metres), with the highest recorded sighting at 3,140 metres just above Zermatt. It blooms from July to September on exposed limestone rocks, but it can also be found at the edge of meadows. Since the 1990s it has been cultivated at lower altitudes and is increasingly found in private gardens.

Despite its delicate appearance, every one of the flower’s organs is designed to withstand extreme weather, from the wind-resistant underground stems to leaves that prevent evapotranspiration to the UV-protective microstructure of the hairy bracts. This makes it particularly attractive for use in anti-aging cosmetics and sunscreen.

The unique features and appearance of the edelweiss have inspired many names, starting with the first mention of the Wollblume (‘wool flower’) by Zurich naturalist Konrad Gessner in the 16th century. Klein Löwenfuss (‘small lion’s foot’), étoile du glacier (‘star of the glacier’), étoile d’argent (‘silver star’) or immortelle des Alpes (‘everlasting flower of the Alps’) have all been used by various botanists and biologists to describe the flower.

The first written trace of the name edelweiss, which in German means ‘noble white’, appeared in a 1785 study by Austrian naturalist Karl von Moll, but it wasn’t until the mid-19 th century that the name caught on when several famous German-speaking botanists started using the name. Since this time, the name edelweiss has transcended languages and borders.

The cult of the noble white flower

How did the edelweiss overshadow other mountain flowers like the Alpine rose, widely viewed to be aesthetically more beautiful? Following a trip through the Bernese Alps in 1881, the American writer Mark Twain called the edelweiss the “ugly Swiss favourite” and described the flower as neither attractive nor white but said that the “fuzzy blossom is the colour of bad cigar ashes”. 

However, Twain was too late. By the time critics started questioning whether the flower was worthy of its cult status, myths about its mystique and exceptionalism were already widely accepted. These myths were intimately tied to the boom in alpinism in the mid-19 th century and the values of courage and strength associated with the sport.

One of the greatest myths about the flower is its inaccessibility. Tobias Scheidegger , a senior researcher of popular culture at the University of Zurich, who researched the edelweiss for a 2011 exhibit at the Botanical Gardens in Geneva and Zurich, argues that the popular belief that the flower only grows on ice and steep rock is botanically not true. He explains, “It was actually the alpinists themselves who popularised this image to promote themselves as brave, strong men.”

One of the most famous stories about the edelweiss is of a young man risking his life climbing the steep rocky face of a mountain to gather edelweiss flowers for a woman as a demonstration of his love and bravery. In the 1861 novel ‘Edelweiss’, German author Berthold Auerbach exaggerated the difficulty of acquiring the flower, claiming: “The possession of one is proof of unusual daring.” 

The flower was also believed to possess magical powers. The first mention of the edelweiss by Moll described a conversation with a farmer in the Zillertal valley, Austria, who argued that when used as incense, the flower’s smoke drives away spirits that attack livestock and cause udder infections. The flower was said to aid digestion and treat respiratory illnesses like tuberculosis. Its medicinal benefits were perpetuated later in poems and stories: for example, in the 1970 classic Asterix in Switzerland , Asterix and Obelix are sent on a search to find edelweiss or what is known as ‘silver star’ for an antidote to a poison.

The edelweiss was also used to make political statements at different points in history. In the 19 th century, the flower represented a paradise at a time of scepticism about Europe’s growing cities. The flower was also a controversial symbol of nationalism in Germany and Austria, as the favourite flower of Adolf Hitler but also the emblem of the Nazi resistance movement, the Edelweiss Pirates. The famous ‘Edelweiss’ song , created for the 1959 Broadway musical and film adaptation of ‘The Sound of Music’, was a statement of Austrian patriotism in the face of Nazi pressure.

Although the flower was not used to promote nationalism in Switzerland, it has helped shape national identity. Scheidegger explains that, “Switzerland, like many countries in Europe, went through a period of reflection after the Berlin Wall fell. The edelweiss became an important part of redefining what it means to be Swiss.” 

From kitsch to cool

As tourism flourished in Switzerland, the obsession with the edelweiss eventually endangered it. Tourists and mountaineers picked the flower as a souvenir of their travels. The canton of Obwalden banned people from digging up the plant’s roots in 1878 in what is considered one of the first environmental protection laws in Europe. Today the flower is not listed as an endangered species at the federal level, but several cantons include it as a protected plant. 

Although the edelweiss is no longer considered rare, its mystique and value to Swiss cultural life remain. Scheidegger explains that in the mid-20 th century, the edelweiss was considered kitsch. “It was largely featured on cheap souvenirs and lost some of its attractiveness. However, there was a rebranding in the 1990s that helped revive the edelweiss. This was strongly tied to the concept of reimagining traditions and embracing the country’s roots and heritage.” 

Today, the edelweiss not only represents a connection to the nature and beauty of Switzerland but is a trademark of Swiss quality and uniqueness. In Switzerland, the image of an edelweiss flower adorns everything from advertisements for dental offices to the 5 franc coin to the rank insignia for the Swiss Armed Forces. Its value extends beyond the Alps, with many of today’s companies bearing the edelweiss name and image. A financial services company in Mumbai, a chocolate company in Beverly Hills, and a delicatessen in New York are all named after the flower.

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Charming river cruises with the edelweiss, edelweiss – life on board.

The Edelweiss has a total of four decks, of which the three cabin decks are connected by a lift. Two restaurants on board spoil the ship's passengers daily with multi-course menus and various buffets. Guests on the main and middle decks dine in the Jungfrau restaurant, while upper deck passengers dine in the Matterhorn restaurant, which features large panoramic windows. In addition, all guests have the option of enjoying a light buffet lunch in the Panorama Lounge. The Gala Dinner is the culinary highlight of any river cruise.

Passengers can relax in the elegant Panorama Salon and Lido Bar and engage in stimulating conversation with fellow passengers. A breathtaking view is offered by the extensive and partly covered sun deck with numerous deck chairs, seating areas and putting green. A small swimming pool is also available for cooling off on hot summer days.

Edelweiss – Cabins

The tastefully furnished cabins have a bathroom with shower and WC, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, refrigerator, in-house telephone and air conditioning. The cabins on the upper and middle deck also have a French balcony, while the cabins on the main deck have non-opening windows.

Deck plan - Edelweiss

• About 14 sqm
• Window (non-opening)
• Adjustable air-conditioning
• Flatscreen TV
• Refrigerator

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Vacation Your Way

The "do what i want" package.

Announcing our hassle-free package for stateside visitors! Not to be confused with European Escapes inclusive package tours. The Discover Package gives you the freedom to choose from our guided tours and customize your stay. One of the hardest parts of international travel is after you get off a trans-Atlantic flight, the mission isn't complete. You still need a train, bus, or taxi to complete the journey to Garmisch. Our discounted Discover Package takes the hassle out of getting to Garmisch from Munich airport. Our staff will greet you at Munich airport and get you to Edelweiss Resort stress-free in our bus.

With airport transportation already taken care of, all you have to focus on is reserving guided tours and customizing your eleven-night stay at Edelweiss Resort. Sign up for our Edelweiss tours and leave the driving to us. Learn about the culture and history of the area with knowledgeable guides. Take a day or two to explore Garmisch and the surrounding area. See what the weather does and be spontaneous one day. Reserve a massage after a few days of action to get the body feeling great. The Discover Package is all about stress-free experiences that you can customize for how you like to travel. Make it as action-packed or relaxed as you want. 

Our goal is to provide our guests with a safe, exciting, and memorable experience in and around the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. The combination of superb facilities, eager-to-please staff, and spectacular location will leave you with vacation memories to cherish forever. See some beautiful scenery. Learn about the culture. Enjoy some great meals. All you have to do is get here. Discover Package includes:

• Airport bus transportation to and from Munich International Airport (set times) • Hotel accommodations for 11 nights at Edelweiss Resort with alpine view rooms • Daily breakfast buffet at Market Station restaurant • Edelweiss tours and activities can be reserved in advance at an additional cost

Our English-speaking guides will give you insights into German culture and customs. Make memories you will cherish forever with our ten-day European Escapes package. 

Discover Package - Dates Available:

• 16 June - 27 June (1 package for two adults available) • 25 October - 1 November (3 packages with two adults each available) • 10 - 21 November (4 packages with two adults each available)

30-day cancellation policy with 50% deposit takes 30 days prior to arrival Price to be determined shortly. 

Once you reserve your package, our Alpine Adventure staff will be in touch with you to get your flight information and help reserve Edelweiss Resort guided tours and activities. Our Alpine Adventures team will reach out in January 2024 to start reserving your guided tours.  Our Edelweiss bus transportation departs Munich airport by 1200 hours the day of arrival. On the departure day, please make sure your flight doesn't depart earlier than 0900. Transportation is set to those times and cannot be modified. 

*Discover Packages will be available to reserve online in a few weeks! Stay tuned for more information on when they will be available. 

This discounted package has limited rooms available for each date range. Packages will be available to reserve online in a few weeks. Stay tuned!

Customize Your Own Vacation

Sunday 1200 Edelweiss Bus departs Munich International Airport 1400 Arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen

You will arrive at the Munich International Airport and be greeted by an Edelweiss Lodge and Resort representative. Enjoy some time to mingle with fellow travelers and stretch your legs after the long flight before boarding a private coach bus en route to Garmisch.

During the drive, watch as the majestic mountains begin to form around you before arriving in the stunning Werdenfelser valley with the highest mountain in all of Germany right at your feet: the Zugspitze. The rest of the afternoon is yours to get checked-in, unpack and relax at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. Then enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep as you prepare to experience the vacation of a lifetime!

Monday 0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price)

Choose from our guided tours or activities throughout your trip. Once reserved, our Alpine Adventures team will work with you to reserve and customize your trip.

Our recommendation for the first day is to choose a tour a little closer to home so you can catch up on some sleep and ease into your trip. The quaint town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen quietly rests in the Werdenfelser Valley at the foot of the majestic Bavarian Alps. Consider taking the bus or taxi into town and explore the streets and shops. Or go for a walk from the Resort to the Osterfelder gondola to experience the AlspiX. Or start the trip with going to the top of Germany on the Zugspitze.  Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Neuschwanstein Castle 0800 - 1700  • Greisbrau Brewery 1815 - 2200

0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price)

The smallest of the three palaces built by King Ludwig II lies nestled amongst the mountains in the Graswang Valley and is the only palace he lived to see completed. Tour the lavish palace to see the bed-chamber, tapestry chambers, the grand hall of mirrors, and the dining room with its magic table. Stroll through the ornate gardens, taking in the fountains and flowers. After the palace visit, enjoy a walking tour of the Oberammergau village and peruse the shops of the local woodcarvers that line the streets.

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Linderhof and Oberammergau 0800 - 1530 • Alpine Coaster 0900 - 1300 • Horse and Carriage Ride 1700 / 1810 / 1920

Wednesday 

0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price) Experience the spectacular views of a rushing gorge right in the heart of Garmisch. You'll be given historic information at the 1936 Olympic Ski Jump Stadium and at the Gorge itself. Then, travel through the beautifully carved stone with water flowing through the caverns.

Or take a short trip to the heart of the Ammergau Valley exists the Ettal Monastery.  Enjoy a short walk to see the exquisite Basilica. You will learn about the almost 700 years of history that have taken place here in Ettal. Your guide will take you behind the scenes to explore the monastery and get a close-up view of the famous Ettal Madonna. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Partnach Gorge • Ettal Schnapps and Monastery

0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price) A must-see to any Bavarian vacation, the Neuschwanstein Castle sits perched on an impossible position surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and an incredible view over the rolling hills. Another peaceful mountain village close to Garmisch is Mittenwald. Learn the long history dating back to the Romans and see where they still manufacture world-renowned handmade violins. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Neuschwanstein Castle 0800 - 1700 • Mittenwald 1000 - 1500 • Horse and Carriage Rides 1700 / 1810 / 1920 What about a little evening competition and try our mini golf course? 

Friday 0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price)

Missed the opportunity to see the Partnach Gorge on Wednesday? Maybe consider visiting this stunning gorge with an impressive trail cut right next to the raging water. The Partnach is a must-see natural attraction during any Garmisch visit. In the evening, visit the artist town of Murnau to learn the fine art of brewing Bavarian Beer. Make sure to pay attention, there is a test at the end. Of course you will also get to sample their creations. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Partnach Gorge 0900 - 1300 • Ettal Schnapps and Monestary 1030 - 1430 • Greisbrau Brewery Tour 1815 - 2200

Saturday  0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price) A big day packed with options galore. The hardest part is choosing which guided tour to go on. From the castle to the alpine coaster, don't forget we offer activities like paragliding or white water rafting if you prefer a bit more of a challenge. For those thinking the Alpine coaster isn't for them, we think it is a hoot. Take a chair lift up the mountain. Enjoy the atmosphere of the mountains with a coffee and cake then take the 8,500-foot-long coaster down the mountain. Go fast or as slow as you want. You control your cart. It can't come off the rail and is completely safe. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) •  Neuschwanstein Castle 0900 - 1700 • Alpine Coaster 0900 - 1300 • Horse and Carriage Rides 1700 / 1810 / 1920  • Griesbrau Brewery Tour 1815 - 2200

0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price) A sobering experience but an important recognition of the atrocities that happened in Germany. Dachau was opened on 22 March 1933 as a concentration camp established by the coalition government of the National Socialist Party (Nazi Party). You will visit an exhibit that recounts the terrifying and gruesome days of the Holocaust and watch a video if the history of the camp, including special presentations.

You could also do something a more uplifting and visit the Zugspitze which is the highest peak in Germany. The gondola is an engineering marvel with three world-records. From the top (on a sunny day) look at over 400 moutain peaks in Austria, Switzerland, Germany and Italy. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Dachau Concentration Camp • Alpine Coaster • Partnach Gorge

0630 - 1000 Breakfast Buffet at Market Station (included in price) After a week of action, you might want to explore a little further. Maybe take the train to Munich to discover the museums, restaurants and walking district. See the famous Hofbrauhaus or watch the Glockenspeil. Taking the train to Innsbruck Austria is also a beautiful scenic train ride about one hour away. Or go take a relaxing stroll around the Eibsee (7km). There is bus transportation up to the Eibsee, the schedule is available at Alpine Adventures. 

Tuesday 

The trip somehow has flown by. Only two more days to make your Bavarian experience complete. Some activities you may enjoy during the day include:

• The beautiful Partnach Gorge • Olympic Ski Jump Stadium • A stroll through the Marienplatz  • Shopping in downtown Garmisch • A dip in our outdoor hot tub • A bite in a Bavarian café • Taking a train to a nearby town • Riding a cable car to the top of Germany - the Zugspitze • Receiving a relaxing massage from our Wellness club • Rent a car and go for a scenic drive to the Plansee Austria

The trip has flown by it seems. Time to get that last taste of Bavaria to complete a fantastic trip to the Edelweiss Resort. 

Available Guided Tours (TBD) • Partnach Gorge 0900 - 1300 • Ettal Schnapps and Monestary Tour 1030 - 1430

Thursday 0430 - 0500 Check Out / Continental Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort 0500 Depart for Munich International Airport

The private coach bus will depart Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at 0500 hrs. It is about 2 hours to the airport under normal traffic conditions. The package price includes the airport transfer ONLY on this select date and time. For your departure from Munich, please make sure that your flight leaves no earlier than 0900 on the departure day.

Price to be determined shortly. 

Discover Packages includes:

• Bus transportation to and from Munich International Airport (set times) • Hotel accommodations at Edelweiss Resort with alpine view rooms • Daily breakfast buffet at Market Station restaurant

Additional information • Package does not include airfare. • Eligible guests can sponsor non-military ID cardholders (up to 4) - some restrictions may apply. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the price cover?

The price includes eleven nights in a standard room at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. The price is based on two adults staying in a standard room for eleven nights. Price is to be determined shortly. 

Additionally, the price includes:

• Transportation from Munich International Airport to Garmisch via private coach bus • Breakfast buffet at Market Station each morning • Transportation from Garmisch to Munich International Airport via private coach bus on specific days and times

What are the vaccine requirements to enter Germany? No proof of vaccination is required to enter Germany. It is your responsibility to review the  health ministry website for up-to-date regulations. 

When will my deposit be charged?

A 50% deposit will be required 30 days prior to arrival. If canceled within 30 days of arrival day, you will forfeit the full amount of your deposit. 

What is the cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy for our Discover Package differs from our normal hotel stay policy to ensure maximum participation in the program. A 50% deposit is required 30 days prior to arrival. The deposit is refundable if the reservation is canceled more than 30 days prior to arrival. Cancellations that occur within 30 days will result in the loss of the deposit. We suggest you purchase travel insurance.

What are the accommodations? May I upgrade?

European Escapes Discover accommodations are a standard room with two queen beds. 

How many rooms may be reserved?

Eligible ID card holders can sponsors can reserve up to 4 non-ID cardholders. 

When does the shuttle run to the airport?

The airport shuttle is only available on the designated arrival and departure days. Arrival: Munich Airport (MUC) to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort departs at 1200 hrs Departure: Edelweiss Lodge and Resort to Munich Airport (MUC) departs at 0530 hrs

What is the voltage at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?

All electronic outlets in the hotel are 220 volts. If your appliance is dual-voltage then only an adapter will be needed to make the plug fit. 

Can I exchange currency at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?

Currency exchange is not available at the resort. However, it may be done at the Munich airport. We do have an ATM that distributes Euro and US dollars in the main lobby. 

Are there ATM’s at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?

Two ATM’s in the main lobby of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort dispense both USD and Euro, but you must have a PIN number with your card.

What currency can I use at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?

Both USD and Euro are accepted at Edelweiss. However, if you pay in Euro, your change is given back in dollars.

What currency is accepted in town?

Only Euro currency is accepted in town. They do accept credit cards, however it is possible they will not accept the card. 

Does the Edelweiss Resort offer laundry service?

There are washing machines and dryers located at the Edelweiss Lodge. Supplies are available for purchase on-site.

Are Edelweiss Lodge and Resort tours physically demanding?

Part of the charm of Europe is in its walking districts which are not accessible by car. Please note that most tours require moderate walking. Tour guides set a pace for everyone in the group to enjoy the sites. One in particular, Neuschwanstein Castle sits atop a steep hill but horse drawn carriages are available for hire and are popular.

Are retiree ID card holders eligible to use the AAFES exchange and post office?

Due to international agreements, the use of the Commissary, Community Bank and PX/BX are limited to personnel assigned to US Forces in Europe and NATO ID card holders who have this privilege. This includes rationed items such as gas coupons. Be aware that gas prices are considerably higher compared to US standards. Military Post Offices may be used only be retirees who reside in Germany for over 30 days and who have Box R privileges with restrictions. Alpine Adventures is located in Edelweiss Lodge and Resort and has an excellent array of Bavarian items, t-shirts and other souvenirs.

Is there a place to rent a car in Garmisch or Munich Airport?

You may reserve a car while staying at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.

- Europcar 011-49-(0)180-58000 Munich International Airport

- Sixt Rental Car +49 8821 9099630 Burgstraße 12a, Garmisch

To get to the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort using a GPS navigation systems use the address : 17 Gernackerstrasse, 82467 Garmisch

What if I need medical care?

We suggest you read through the Tricare overseas website to be familiar with your coverage. Garmisch has very good medical facilities if required. 

http://www.tricare-overseas.com/contact-us/eurasia-africa

http://www.tricare-overseas.com/beneficiaries/resources

About Edelweiss Lodge and Resort

Resting at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is a resort destination designed for eligible military personnel and their families. With 256 rooms and suites, we have comfortable spaces and mountain views for retirees and their families. 

When the tours are over, we have amenities focused on your relaxation. Head to the hot tub to soak away any stress. Take a refreshing swim and lay back in the water jets to soothe your sore muscles. 

We also have restaurants for every taste. Hang out at Zuggy's Base Camp and watch some sports and enjoy a pizza. Or start your morning with a delicious American buffet and a chef-prepared omelet in Market Station. 

We're taking you over to a different website. They may have a different privacy policy than we do. We just needed to let you know.  Now is a good time to check our eligibility requirements  and website policies .  Guests must have a valid DoD common access card or be accompanied by an authorized sponsor. If you want to head back to Edelweiss Resort website, hit cancel.

We're taking you over to our booking website. We just need to let you know they have a different privacy policy than we do. 

Please confirm you are eligible to stay and can access the installation . 

Guests must have a valid DoD common access card or be accompanied by an authorized sponsor.

If you want to head back to Edelweiss Resort website, hit cancel.

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With the constant aim of providing unforgettable experiences on two wheels, we continue to grow – and surpass ourselves! For the 2024 season, we have not only improved our existing tours, but also added some new ones for you! The successful AMA Alps Challenge tours, which have been carried out since 2020 and involve conquering the 40 highest passes in the Alps, will now be included as fixed Edelweiss AMA Alps Challenge tours in our program. Additionally, we have introduced two charming new destinations in Southern Europe: Magical Portugal and the Southern Apennines in beautiful Italy, both relatively undiscovered areas and true biker gems. As a new long-distance destination, we have added Namibia to our program – a must for everyone who loves gravel roads and diverse landscapes. For those who prefer a classic experience, we now offer a sensational touring area in the South of Brazil with countless curves, excellent asphalt and culinary highlights. And there's also good news for off-road enthusiasts! Edelweiss will be hosting the annual Adventure Rally for KTM. Enjoy browsing through our program!

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