When I saw the elaborate dome of the Ettal Monastery (Kloster Ettal) for the first time, I was surprised to see such ornate architecture dramatically rising out of the countryside, juxtaposed with the area’s modest Bavarian homes. The monastery, located in the village of Ettal, is not far from the town of Oberammergau, which is well-known for its Passion Play that’s held every ten years.
Founded in 1330, but completely rebuilt in the 1700s following a devastating fire, the complex features Baroque and Rococo architecture. Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian had it constructed to house knights and monks.
For many years, the monastery’s monks have brewed their own beer and made their own straw-colored liqueur using mountain herbs. Today, it’s still possible to buy both.
Our visit to Ettal was brief, as it coincided with errands in the nearby resort town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. However, it did offer just enough time to peek at the architecture and stroll the monastery grounds.
On a future trip, I’d love to visit the nearby Schaukäserei Ettal, a dairy-making cooperative, to sample the regional cheese and see how it’s made.
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Planning Pointers:
- There is no cost to enter the Ettal Monastery Church to take a peek, but be sure to check the opening hours before you go.
- To get to Ettal independently, research the Bayern Ticket (website is in German, but you can use Google Translate). As of 2021, these tickets start at €25 for one passenger, and cost €8 for each additional passenger. You can use the Bayern Ticket for most trains, trams, and city buses, making it a good deal if you’ll be doing a lot of exploring in one day. You can purchase tickets online, via a ticket machine, or in person.
- Are you looking for a guesthouse or hotel in Oberammergau? Here is my round-up of hotels organized by theme.
- If you need more trip-planning inspiration, this link contains an index of all my posts from Germany.
Photography & text © Tricia A. Mitchell. All Rights Reserved.
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