A long weekend based near Murnau am Staffelsee provided the opportunity to explore several very different hiking areas between Bavaria and the Austrian Karwendel Alps. Although none of the hikes was particularly long or difficult, together they offered an excellent variety of dramatic gorges, panoramic viewpoints and alpine scenery within relatively short driving distances.

The weekend began with a hike through Gleirschklamm, starting from Scharnitz just across the Austrian border. Compared to some of the region's better-known gorges, the trail feels pleasantly natural and uncrowded. Narrow passages, turquoise water, wooden bridges and steep rock walls make for an enjoyable hike through the valley.

On the return journey, I stopped at the famous Partnachklamm near Garmisch-Partenkirchen. While considerably more popular with visitors, the gorge fully deserves its reputation. The trail follows tunnels and walkways carved into the rock directly alongside the rushing Partnach River, whose waterfalls and polished limestone walls create an impressive natural spectacle. Experiencing both gorges on the same day highlighted their different character: Gleirschklamm as the quieter, more secluded alternative, and Partnachklamm as the more dramatic and iconic destination.

A shorter outing the following day led to the hills above Eschenlohe. The hike first climbed to the Heldenkreuz, offering broad views across the Loisach Valley and the surrounding mountain ranges, before descending through the Asamklamm. Although much smaller than the previous day's gorges, the combination of forest trails, rock formations and flowing water makes it an enjoyable excursion away from the better-known tourist routes.

The highlight of the weekend was a drive into the Karwendel Alps to the spectacular Großer Ahornboden. This high alpine valley, famous for its centuries-old maple trees scattered across open meadows, is one of the most distinctive landscapes in the region. A medium-length panoramic hike led to several viewpoints overlooking the valley, framed by the rugged limestone peaks of the Karwendel. Even in summer, the combination of mountain scenery, alpine pastures and ancient trees creates an unforgettable landscape. On the scenic drive back, I made a brief stop at the Faller-Klamm Bridge crossing the Isar and Sylvensteinsee.

Overall, the three hikes complemented each other remarkably well. From narrow river gorges to peaceful forests and expansive alpine panoramas, they showcased the diversity of the northern Alps within a single long weekend. The region around Garmisch-Partenkirchen and the Karwendel Alps is an excellent destination for anyone looking for varied day hikes without venturing into high-alpine terrain.