In January I will be making a trip to Garmisch (Germany) and I have 3 questions:]
1. Since we will be landing in Munich is the train the best way to reach Garmisch?
2. We will be staying at the Ramada Sporthotel and comments on the hotel service, facilities and surroundings would be appreciated.
3. I have had knee surgery and will not be able to ski. So, as my friends are gliding down the slopes what can (or should) I be doing.

Thanks for any information, advice, help or warnings.

PRR

Having stayed in Garmisch many times, I strongly recommend that you rent a car. Splitting the cost with one or two others would probably be cheaper than taking the train. The main reason, however, is that the attractions in and around the town are spread out. Since you can't ski, getting around would be even more important. Check with the information center by the train station for local attractions. Don't miss a visit to Oberammergau. The scenery alone makes Garmisch worth a visit but there are also many things to do and good places to eat.

Dear PRR: The area where you will be traveling is extremely beautiful. There are tons of very easy hiking trails as well. However, your best bet is to rent a car and get on the road. I strongly recommend you to visit Ettal, a town just before Obberamergau. There, visit the Benedict Monastery. Also, stop at the Schloss Linderhoff, summer residence of the last Bavarian King, Ludwig II. Have a great time!

You may want to take a day and see Innsbruck, a beautiful city that is one of the rarities in that winter may be the prettiest time of year to visit the "Capital of the Alps." Also check out Kitzbuhl for the day -- a great ski resort but the town is 800 years old, and has lots of walking trails, shops, etc.

We have been to Garmisch many times. Also concur that u should rent a car to get there. Short drive from airport. See the Ettal Abbey, then Linderhof, Oberammergau for the wood carvings and then on to Neuschwanstein (Disney castle). This is very crowded in summer, but not bad in winter. Also a great church at Wies on the way back. Innsbruck, in my opinion, is not a #1 priority for first time visit. The castles and small towns of Germany much better if ur time is limited. You can also take the cable car ro the top of Zugspitz with the other skiers for a great view, but the trip is expensive. Have a great time!

Agree, don't miss Innsbruck, one of the most beautiful cities anywhere. Public transport in Bavaria is safe, cheap, and fun, but you need to plan very carefully as rides are not as frequent. Enjoy.

Hey Peg, PRR should be long back by now,<BR>LOL.

Where did Peg find this? A 1997 post and she is still helping out? Thanks Peg!