These 7 impressive mountains in Germany will leave no one indifferent. German mountains are not just magnificent places for walks. They are also deeply immersed in the country's culture and history.
1. Zugspitze – Germany's highest mountain
With an elevation of 2,962 meters above sea level, Zugspitze is situated on the border with Austria, and the southwestern parts of the mountain range extend into the neighboring country. However, the summit lies within the Federal Republic.
This mountain serves as a home to diverse flora and fauna, including sheep that have inhabited the mountain since the 16th century. Climbing Zugspitze to its summit is an undertaking not for the faint of heart.
2. Watzmann
As Zugspitze spills into Austria, Watzmann is considered the highest mountain in Germany entirely within the country's borders. It is part of the Berchtesgaden Alps mountain range.
The highest of its three peaks reaches an elevation of 2,651 meters above sea level.
A hike along the Watzmann rewards with some of the most impressive views in Germany. At the eastern foothills of the mountain range, you can stop by the St. Bartholomew's Church, located on the shores of Lake Königssee, with Watzmann rising just behind it.
3. Brocken – Germany's most famous mountain
Located in the Harz National Park in Saxony-Anhalt, the summit of Brocken stands at an elevation of 1,141 meters above sea level.
At its summit sits the world's first television tower. Built in 1935 by the postal service of the German Empire, the tower became the first public direct television broadcast in Germany, showcasing the Olympic Games.
4. Elbe Sandstone Mountains in Saxon Switzerland
Located far to the east of Dresden and near the border with the Czech Republic, reaching them is not so straightforward due to limited public transportation.
These mountains resemble fairy tales, but in the spirit of the Brothers Grimm, not Disney. Enormous gray rocky formations, elongated peaks adorned with spruces.
5. The Alps
The most famous mountain range in Europe, the Alps, also extends into Germany. The Bavarian Alps are considered part of the broader Northern Limestone Alps group, surrounding the southern parts of the state.
In the Federal Republic, they are characterized by snow-capped peaks, undulating green fields, unusual rock formations, and alpine villages nestled among valleys.
6. Harz Mountains
Brocken is the most famous peak in the German Harz Mountains, but this national park has much more to offer.
Embarking on a journey, you can witness a green tapestry of birch and beech trees. Beneath their branches, European wildcats roam, and underfoot, there are ticks, moles, and roundworms. Above them soar black storks and woodpeckers.
The Harz Mountains have also long been a major industrial center in Germany. During the Nazi era, weapon manufacturing plants were located in the region, where dictatorship prisoners were often forced to work.
7. Black Forest (Schwarzwald)
When people outside Germany think of the German forest, they probably have the Black Forest in mind. The largest mountain range in Baden-Württemberg, the Black Forest neatly extends across the land, bordering France to the west and Switzerland to the south.
It is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Germany.
These 7 impressive mountains in Germany are worth the attention of everyone.
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Tourism in Germany's mountains is a significant attraction. Visitors can climb Zugspitze, the highest mountain with an elevation of 2,962 meters, and experience the diverse flora and fauna, including the ancient sheep population.
German mountains also hold cultural and historical significance. For instance, Brocken, in the Harz National Park, has a historical charm with its television tower built in 1935, showcasing the first public direct television broadcast in Germany.