Travel through Aristocratic Bavaria as the Royals Did

Their particular coat of arms dates from the 13th century and is just one of the many reminders of that historical time period. This blue blooded legacy is present throughout the region with the magnificence of the past evident in the region’s castle halls, now used for dining, or even in the servants’ quarters modified today as historic guest accommodations. Notes Jens Huwald, Managing Director of BAYERN TOURISMUS Marketing GmbH, "Aristocratic Bavaria represents a special journey through the aristocracy of the present, in which the magnificence of the past becomes tangible." Encounters with the heirs to aristocratic families who still run breweries or manufacture handicrafts further bring the "Aristocratic Bavaria" experience to life.

Craftsmanship of distinction that continues today

For centuries, the skill of artistic craftsmanship has been fostered and perfected in the Freiherr von Poschinger Glass Works in Frauenau. Poschinger glass, the oldest glassworks in Germany is still produced in the manufacturing workshop of the kiln hall and is still family run. In Fürstenfeldbruck, the König Ludwig Schlossbrauerei Kaltenberg brewery is still managed by Prince Luitpold of Bavaria from the house of Wittelsbach which founded the first brewery in 1260. Kaltenberg castle appeared approximately 30 years later and today pays tribute to its regal past with the renowned König Ludwig beers. The Bavarian Purity Law, celebrating 500 years in 2016, by the Bayerische Brauerbund (Bavarian Brewers Association) will showcase a special exhibition and a wide variety of events centred on Bavarian beer.

A stamp of royal approval very much in evidence

From 1806 and 1918 reigning monarchs awarded the title of "Suppliers to the Royal Bavarian Court" as a guarantee of outstanding quality. Once a year, the Court Title Commission assembled to evaluate the many applicants. Among those who still hold the title is the traditional clothing company Ed Meier in Munich. Prince Regent Luitpold swore by the company’s aristocratic footwear and today the Ed Meier name still stands for sophisticated clothing and handmade shoes.

Glittering worlds past and architectural delights characterize Bavaria’s towns

Bad Kissingen, Bavaria's largest spa town, lies in an idyllic position to the north on the River Saale in Franconia. For centuries, Bad Kissingen served as a popular retreat offering rest and recuperation to the aristocracy of Europe. Under the aegis of the Kings of Bavaria and supervised by renowned architects, magnificent buildings were created to afford visiting European nobility an enhanced experience. These buildings include the imposing Regentenbau and impressive Arcadenbau structures, as well as the adjacent Wandelhalle gallery complex, which is Europe's largest. Impressive and extensive gardens characterize the city of Bayreuth, which in the 18th century came under the influence of Margravine Wilhelmine. The Margravial Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2012, is one of the many monuments to the past which carries the signature of Wilhelmine. In 2016, Bayreuth will commemorate its Princess with a major Horticultural Show showing off her historic (and floral) legacy in the Wilhelminen-Aue river meadows.


On the trail of King Ludwig II

Anyone searching for the fairytale King Ludwig II must include a visit to Neuschwanstein Castle. After standing on the throne room balcony as part of the castle tour, visitors understand why Ludwig II chose this place for his "Castle of the Holy Grail". Surrounded by the rich green of the forests, the sparkling waters of the Alpsee and Schwansee lakes sparkle, with glimpses of the warm yellow stone of the castle Schloss Hohenschwangau, Ludwig's childhood paradise. Across from the Kalvarienberg Mountain, the silhouette of the medieval town of Füssen comes into view; further east are Forggensee and Bannwaldsee lakes. Other opulent buildings created by the renowned Bavarian king are the Palace of Herrenchiemsee, Linderhof Palace, and the King's House on the Schachen.

Magnificent backdrops and historic festivals

Pleasantly embedded in a magical, romantic park which is home to the largest rhododendron garden in Southern Germany, the castle Schloss Dennenlohe in Unterschwaningen will be in full bloom in the spring. Guests of the Baron and Baroness von Süsskind can also settle comfortably into the recently renovated castle, where the historic charm of their castle hotel rooms has been carefully preserved. A colorful range of year-long royal cultural events include jousting tournaments, historic pageants and atmospheric open-air performances.

For more information visit www.bavaria.by/aristocratic-bavaria .