In a picture-postcard valley surrounded by the rising tree-covered mountains of Bavaria, you’ll find the charming town of Oberammergau. This traditional town draws many visitors each year who seek to experience its natural beauty and fascinating culture. And if you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in its essence, there’s no better place to stay than Hotel Alte Post. This family-run hotel has a history almost as old as the town itself and offers an enticing blend of upmarket hospitality and authentic charm.
As a feature hotel on our Walking in Southern Bavaria trip, we were keen to share a closer insight into what awaits our guests when staying at Hotel Alte Post and exploring the local area. Below, Anton Preisinger, owner and manager of the hotel, provides us with a greater understanding of what makes Hotel Alte Post and Oberammergau so unique.
The history of Hotel Alte Post can be traced back as far as 1612, meaning it is most likely the oldest hotel in the town of Oberammergau. Anton describes how the hotel’s main building once served as a post station. Similar to stagecoaches, post coaches were vehicles that carried mail over long distances. They also provided transport for passengers at a premium. “Our building was a vital hub, where these post coaches would stop to change horses,” he explains. “During these stops, travellers had the opportunity to rest and enjoy a meal, making the hotel an essential part of the town’s life and the region’s transportation network in former times.”
The eclectic and long history of this hotel is clearly apparent in its restaurant. Look up, and you’ll see an array of coats of arms displayed on its traditional exposed-beam ceiling. Left by tradespeople who appreciated the hospitality offered at the “Löwe” guesthouse (as it was known in those days), these unique family symbols hint at the fascinating stories Hotel Alte Post has witnessed over the centuries.
Anton’s family also has a lengthy connection with Hotel Alte Post. “It has been a cherished family business since the late 19th century,” he reveals. “I am proud to be the fifth generation to manage it, carrying on the tradition passed down through the years. Soon, my son will take over, continuing our family’s legacy into the next generation.”
While Hotel Alte Post is proud of its history, it is also dedicated to meeting the contemporary needs of its guests today. Its various rooms range from superior double and maisonette rooms to well-appointed single and double standard rooms, all offering modern facilities such as wi-fi, cable TV and en suite bathrooms. Anton’s team regularly refurbishes the rooms, using tastefully coordinated colours and materials to create a light and comfortable feel, perfect for relaxing after a day out exploring the picturesque surroundings.
Hotel Alte Post has everything keen outdoor enthusiasts need for a seamless and enjoyable day out. As well as providing guidance on great routes for walking or cycling in the local area, it offers free hiking equipment hire, including jackets, boots and hiking poles, and a secure bike and storage room. Anton comments, “Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike, or a cultural excursion, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
On our self-guided walking holiday, Walking in Southern Bavaria, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this spectacular Bavarian landscape from your base in Oberammergau. Discover the snow-capped peaks, inviting waterfalls that empty into sparkling sapphire lakes and verdant, flower-filled valleys. The variety of well-signed routes on the holiday ensure there’s something for everyone to enjoy, no matter your fitness level or interest. Highlights include mountain hikes that take in the magnificent views of Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, and lakeside strolls, where a delightful dip in the idyllic Staffelsee lakes is on the cards.
Also, be sure to save time to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, the inspiration behind Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Perched 200 metres high in the Bavarian mountains, this neo-Gothic castle was built as a place for King Ludwig II of Bavaria to gain inspiration for his classical music. Yet, its extraordinary location and architecture have also led to its links to many German legends.
When meandering in Oberammergau, you’ll discover that Sleeping Beauty is not the only fairytale with connections to the town. There are brightly coloured houses with murals illustrating the time-honoured stories of Hansel and Gretel and Little Red Riding Hood. Oberammergau is also infamous for its woodcarving, and with over sixty woodcarvers here, there are plenty of opportunities to pick up a souvenir.
Oberammergau’s rich traditions continue with one of its most famous cultural events, the Passion Play. This custom began nearly 400 years ago and is one in which Anton’s family has long been involved. He elaborates, “This tradition dates back to 1633 when the townspeople vowed to perform the play if they were spared from the plague. The Passion Play has since become a vital part of Oberammergau’s history and character, and being part of it is a deeply meaningful tradition for our family.” In 2022, the 42nd Passion Play was performed with great success between 14th May and 2nd October, having been postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic.
The restaurant at Hotel Alte Post is another favourite of the guests that visit Oberammergau, particularly after working up a good appetite with a day in the mountains. Anton explains how Austrian chef Peter Mauberger leads the kitchen, using his expertise to create a menu featuring local Bavarian and Austrian specialities, as well as a selection of international dishes. “His commitment to quality and tradition ensures a memorable dining experience for all our guests.” In addition to the main dining area, there are several smaller rooms where you can relax. Alternatively, you can soak up the local culture with a coffee or cold beer on the sun terrace at the front of the hotel.
The enchanting town of Oberammergau is a unique and memorable place to visit, not only thanks to its stunning surrounding landscape but also its captivating culture, and Hotel Alte Post provides the perfect base to explore and embrace it all.
To learn more about our self-guided walking trip in this remarkable region, please visit our Walking in Southern Bavaria page.
