From the Isar to the ridge – hike in the Karwendel Mountains

The turquoise blue water of the Isar flows from its source through the impressive Karwendel Mountains, creating a unique Alpine flair as it journeys towards distant cities. Beautiful beaches and bays have formed in Mittenwald and Krün, inviting you to take a dip in the ice-cold water after a day of hiking in the mountains. In this Collection, I introduce you to a challenging mountain hike, a thrilling climbing adventure and a relaxing ramble through the area. These routes are all suitable as short trips if you decide to head to the mountains for a long weekend.

The Collection starts with the physically demanding mountain hike to the Seinskopf (1,961 metres / 6,433 ft) and its secondary peaks. You’ll explore the little-visited Seinsbachklamm, where water has eroded unusual shapes into the rock. You’ll feel like you’re stepping into a fairytale as you explore the edge of this small gorge. It's best to save it as a treat for the end of the hike as it’s a wonderful place to recharge.

The next gorge – Hüttlebachklamm – is a stone's throw from Krün and can be wonderfully combined with a visit to the Isar reservoir and the Schwarzkopf viewpoint. This Tour is ideal on a ‘rest day’ as it doesn’t have so much elevation gain. It still offers plenty of variety and non-stop photo opportunities.

Your third adventure will take you high up again as you use your hands to climb airy ridges over the five peaks of the Mittenwalder Höhenweg. In order to fully enjoy the well-known via ferrata classic in the Karwendel, it’s worth starting early, as it’s very popular – for good reason. The path is secured in many places with steel cables, iron brackets and ladders. You should have prior via ferrata experience and the appropriate safety equipment (via ferrata set and helmet) to do this Tour safely. On the descent, you’ll take a break at the Brunnsteinhütte where you can treat yourself to refreshments before heading back into the valley.

I stayed overnight at the Isarhorn nature campsite, located in one of the river bends behind Mittenwald. With its beautiful beaches and bays, it’s a great place to relax and unwind. You can also find suitable accommodation in neighbouring towns if you don't want to camp.

You need to have reasonable fitness and alpine experience to take on these routes. It's best to also pay attention to the weather forecast so that a storm doesn't surprise you. I hope this Collection inspires you to embark on a short trip exploring the Isar region around Mittenwald and Krün.