Neuschwanstein Palace and the Oktoberfest – are what come to mind when people think of Bavaria. Each year 6 million visitors flock to Munich for the Oktoberfest alone and over a million want to see the fairytale palace of Neuschwanstein. But there are many more opportunities for visitors to the Bavarian Alps to experience local traditions and customs, the dirndl and lederhosen and the wonderful brass band music first hand.

There are wonderful annual customs showcased all over the region for visitors to enjoy particular around the 1st of May when brightly painted maypoles are held aloft and the blue and white of the royal Bavarian flag flutter gently in the breeze reminiscent of an era when Bavaria was a monarchy. Impressive processions reflect the people’s deep-rooted religious beliefs, colourful festivities held in the autumn celebrating the safe return of the cattle from their mountain pastures and horse-backed processions marking the feast days of saints such as St Leonard.

Colourful and historic festivities held within the ancient walls of towns steeped in the past are a true delight to behold whilst regional delicacies provide delectations for the palette. The region’s churches, abbeys and palaces regularly host top-rate concerts. A visit to the Bavarian Alps is a true all-in experience involving all our five senses.