Alpine Adventure

The Spaniards have their "Running of the Bulls"…  We've found our own version "Running of the Cows with the clinging of the Bells!" This year join RTT and guests from all over Europe for a once in a lifetime event “Almabtrieb,” a ceremonial cattle drive and festival in the Bavarian Alpine Region of Germany. 

Day 1: After mid-day arrival in Oberstaufen, we are instantly immersed in the rugged beauty of the southern German alpine region. Nestled in the south-west corner of Germany’s border with Austria, Oberstaufen is a certified health resort, known for its clean air of the highest category. After checking in to our home base for the next four days, we will have ample time, to freshen up, explore the nearby town, go for a scenic walk or bask in the Hotel SPA facilities before enjoying a buffet-style welcome dinner at the hotel.  

Day 2: This morning, we may wake to the distinct ringing of mountain bells and the breathtaking view of the alpine valley, ablaze in autumn splendor. After enjoying a generous but early breakfast, we set out to partake in the celebration of The Homecoming of the cattle, a time-honored alpine tradition. The cattle that have been grazing on the high alpine pastures all summer, now return in a celebrated parade to the lower farmlands to winter over.  The prized cattle are lovingly adorned in flowers, ribbons and embellished headdresses made of lush bouquets, holy figures, and bells.

The Homecoming is accompanied by a 'Traditional Oktoberfest', a colourful festival showcasing regional specialities such as schnapps from local distilleries, farmers' produce, cheese and charcuterie, among many other things. You have the entire day to enjoy at your leisure. Savour local samples, eat, drink and listen to live Bavarian folk music, which provides the perfect ambience for joining in with the traditional dances.

Day 3: After enjoying a hearty Bavarian breakfast, we set off for neighboring Austria to visit the famous Prinz Schnapps Distillery. This family-run business, located near Lake Constance, has been producing premium fruit spirits, brandies and liqueurs since 1886 and has achieved worldwide fame. The distillery is renowned for its aged products, such as 'Old Marille' (Apricot) and 'Old Lake Constance Apple', which are aged in wooden barrels to achieve a smooth, amber-colored flavor. Here we learn about distilling traditions acompanied by an in-depth tasting of the spirits.

If a distillery visit is not for you, you are welcome to explore one of the nearby mountains. Perhaps you could take a cable car ride and enjoy the stunning mountain views during a short hike.

Late afternoon we return from our visit to the Prinz distillery, finding a traditional Bavarian BBQ already waiting for us provided by the Hotel. 

Day 4: Today we wake up to another specialty called “Frühschoppen”, which is a Bavarian-style breakfast brunch buffet accompanied with life music. After sampling all the delicacies, it is time to say farewell to the beautiful Bavarian traditions making our way back home.