The starting point of this varied mountain hike is Geitau train station near Bayrischzell (if desired, a meeting point in Munich can also be requested). From there, the trail initially leads at a leisurely pace through meadows and forest towards the Wendelstein. The ascent gradually becomes steeper, but you are repeatedly rewarded with beautiful views of the Leitzach Valley and the surrounding peaks of the Bavarian Prealps. The Panorama Trail finally takes you to the summit area of the Wendelstein at an altitude of 1,838 metres (6,030 feet), where an impressive 360-degree panorama of the Alps opens up before you.
There's plenty to discover at the summit: This is where you'll find the highest church in Germany, the Wendelstein Church. Right next to it is the distinctive weather station, which can be seen from far away. The Wendelstein Cave, one of the highest show caves in Germany, is also located at the summit. Thanks to the historic Wendelstein Railway from Brannenburg and the Wendelstein Cable Car from Bayrischzell, the Wendelstein can also be reached without a long hike. At the top, there are also several places to stop for food or drink.
We plan to take about an hour's break at the summit to enjoy the view, take photos, or have a leisurely stop. If you wish, you also have the option here to end the hike and, at your own expense, take either the cable car to Bayrischzell or the historic rack railway to Brannenburg to descend into the valley.
The descent then takes you back towards Geitau along varied paths – first over alpine trails and later through forests and alpine pastures. Overall, with a route of around 12 kilometres and an elevation gain of over 1,000 metres, the tour offers an active but very rewarding full-day tour with an impressive mountain backdrop in the Bavarian Alps.