Garmisch-Partenkirchen

Skiing and Snowboarding

Garmisch-Partenkirchen was the site of the 1936 Winter Olympics, and remains Germany's premier winter-sports resort. The upper slopes of the Zugspitze and surrounding mountains challenge the best ski buffs and snowboarders, and there are also plenty of runs for intermediate skiers and families. The area is divided into two basic regions. The Riffelriss with the Zugspitzplatt is Germany's highest skiing area, with snow guaranteed from November to May. Access is via the Zugspitzbahn funicular. Cost for a day pass is €35; for a 2½-day pass €80 (valid from noon on the first day). The CLASSIC-Gebiet, or classical area, has 17 lifts in the Alpspitz, Kreuzeck, and Hausberg regions. Day passes cost €29.50, a two-day pass €53. The town has a number of ski schools and tour organizers.

Alpine Auskunftstelle. The best place for information for all your snow-sports needs is the Alpine office at the tourist-information office, Alpine Auskunftstelle. Richard-Strauss-Pl. 2, Garmisch, 82467. 08821/180-744. Mon.-Thurs. 4-6.

Erste Skilanglaufschule Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Cross-country skiers should check with the Erste Skilanglaufschule Garmisch-Partenkirchen at the eastern entrance of the Olympic stadium in Garmisch. 08821/1516.

Skischule Alpin. Skiers looking for instruction can try the Skischule Alpin. Reintalstr. 8, Garmisch, 82467. 08821/945-676.

Snowboardschule Erwin Gruber. For snowboarders, there's the Snowboardschule Erwin Gruber. Mittenwalderstr. 47d, Garmisch, 82467. 08821/76490.

Telemark Schule Leismüller. Telemark skiing is also popular in these rugged mountains. For information, contact the Telemark Schule Leismüller. Waldeckstr. 7, Garmisch, 82467. 08821/752-696.

More Sports and Outdoors

• Hiking and Walking

• Skiing and Snowboarding