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Wendelstein
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Mountain
The Wendelstein is an 1,838-meter-high mountain peak in the Bavarian Alps, part of the Mangfall Mountains. Due to its prominent position on the northern edge of the Alps, it has expansive views across the Alpine foothills as far as the Großglockner. The mountain's development began in 1912 with the opening of the Wendelstein Railway, Germany's oldest cog railway, which starts in Brannenburg. Additionally, a cable car has operated from Bayrischzell-Osterhofen to the summit plateau since 1970. The summit hosts an observatory belonging to the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and a major broadcasting facility for Bavarian Radio. The small Wendelstein Chapel, consecrated in 1718, is the highest church in Germany. Geologically, the mountain is primarily composed of Wetterstein limestone from the Triassic period, explaining its rugged rock formations. Today, it remains a significant site for both tourism and scientific observation.
- Location: Bavaria, Germany
- Top sights: Wendelstein · Wildalpjoch · Breitenstein
- Nearby: Schliersee (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -4 | -4 | 1 | 6 | 10 | 14 | 16 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 2 | -3 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 66 | 81 | 83 | 145 | 170 | 173 | 179 | 119 | 93 | 71 | 73 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The prominent peak in the Bavarian Pre-Alps is typically reached either by historic mountain railways or via well-established hiking trails from the surrounding valleys.
Best season
Late spring through autumn provides the most reliable conditions for hiking the trails, while winter transforms the area into a highly scenic snowy destination.
Terrain & paths
The landscape transitions from forested slopes lower down to rocky, exposed terrain near the summit, with well-maintained paths guiding visitors upwards.
What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots are required for the uneven rocky trails, along with layered clothing to adapt to the significantly cooler temperatures usually found at the peak.
Parking
Visitors typically utilize the large parking areas located at the valley stations of the mountain railways or at the designated trailheads throughout the region.
Safety
While very accessible, the rocky summit area requires proper caution, especially in wet conditions when the limestone surface can become surprisingly slippery and dangerous.
Time needed
A complete visit generally lasts from a half day, if utilizing the mountain transport, to a full, strenuous day when hiking the entire elevation difference on foot.
Geography
Facts
- The Wendelstein Railway opened on May 12, 1912.
- The summit chapel is located at an altitude of 1,735 meters.
- The mountain reaches a total height of 1,838 meters above sea level.
- The cog railway handles a gradient of up to 23.7 percent.
- The solar observatory on the summit was established in 1946.
- The cable car takes only 7 minutes to ascend 905 meters.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Wendelstein (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to the summit of the Wendelstein?
By cogwheel railway from Brannenburg or by cable car from Bayrischzell.
Is there a cave on the Wendelstein?
Yes, the Wendelstein Cave is the highest show cave in Germany.
What is special about the chapel on the summit?
It is the highest church in Germany, a popular photo motif.
Can you eat on the Wendelstein?
The Wendelsteinhaus directly at the mountain station provides Bavarian cuisine.
Is there an observatory up there?
Yes, the solar observatory of LMU Munich takes advantage of the clear mountain air.
Wendelstein: where is it located?
Wendelstein is located in Bavaria, Germany.
Wendelstein: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wendelstein, Wildalpjoch, Breitenstein.
Wendelstein: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Wendelstein: why is it worth visiting?
The Wendelstein is an 1,838-meter-high mountain peak in the Bavarian Alps, part of the Mangfall Mountains.
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