July 2003
So Inclined
If you feel like experiencing a combination of history, eye-popping landscapes and a long walk, you might be interested in visiting King Ludwig II’s former alpine retreat. Built to plans by Georg Dollmann between 1869 and 1872 on the Schachen Alp near Garmisch-Partenkirchen, the wooden structure is modeled on a Swiss chalet. It has five rooms on the ground floor with cembra wood paneling and a mixture of stylistic elements, “Turkish Hall” on the upper floor, decorated with colored glass windows, opulently embroidered textiles, peacock feathers and candelabra. The alpine garden is no less impressive, planted with flora from around the world. Please note that, although you can travel to Garmisch-Partenkirchen by train, the Schachen Alp is accessible only on foot—a walk of at least 3 to 4 hours. Guided tours of the house are given daily at 11 am, 1 pm, 2 pm and 3 pm. For further information call (08822) 92 030 or visit
www.schloesser.bayern.de.