Sonthofen by International Mountain Leader Sandy Paterson
The area around Sonthofen has a perfect range of options for Snowshoeing. As well as some big days out to challenge you when the weather is good, easier days when the limbs are a bit tired and venues to hide from the weather. It also has so much more than just the mountains, the history and the culture are fascinating.
How easy is it to get to?
Fly to Munich airport (lots of different options) and then either hire a car for the 2 hour drive or use the efficient public transport. To get the most out of the area in winter I would say a car is best, in summer public transport would suffice.
Can you tell us about the most memorable moment of a recent trip?
The last week I was there in winter was one of those perfect snowshoeing weeks! Fresh snow almost every day but also clear skies so the snow was sparkling and picture perfect. It led to some serious stability issue in relation to avalanches but with careful planning there were still good options every day.
What are your top tips for anyone travelling to this area?
Once you arrive get to the tourist information, they are really friendly and helpful. Lots of extra little events run and the tourist card is great for getting you discounts on all sorts of attractions.
What else is there to do, other than mountaineering, in this area?
There are plenty of other winter sports; downhill skiing, ski touring, sledging and cross country skiing but the area is also great for its culture and history. There are so many Mountain huts serving traditional food and lots of history around World War 2 as well as the older history linked to the border disputes.
Are there any dangers or annoyances here?
It is a developed area with typical German efficiency. The only real dangers are those that come with mountains in winter! The weather can be wild, and you have to think about avalanche hazard, other than that, the most exciting part of my trips is normally the snowy roads!
What one piece of kit could you not manage without on a trip like this?
Warm gloves and a big warm belay jacket. had a day on my last trip where, with wind chill, it was minus 19 so I was glad of my warm layers.
How do people contact you if they want to find out more?
Scotch on the Rocks Guiding (SOTRG). E-mail me at sandy@sotrg.co.uk or have a look at my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/sotrg/?ref=bookmarks
Sandy Paterson (MIC, IML & DC)
sandy@sotrg.co.uk
www.sotrg.co.uk
Thank you Sandy!
