Mittenwald

Mittenwald is a town in Bavaria, Germany, located in the Bavarian Alps near the Karwendel range and close to the Austrian border. It lies on the historic road between Munich and Innsbruck and sits at roughly 900 meters above sea level, serving as a gateway for hiking, cycling, and winter sports in the surrounding mountains.

The town has a long-standing tradition of violin making that dates back to the 17th century. Today Mittenwald preserves this heritage through workshops, the Geigenbaumuseum, and the Geigenbauschule Mittenwald, which continues to train craftsmen. The craft remains an important part of the local economy and cultural identity.

Architecturally, Mittenwald is known for its well-preserved historic core and its distinctive painted facades, a style known as Lüftlmalerei. Narrow lanes, carved wooden balconies, and colorful houses create a picturesque townscape that draws visitors year round.

Economically, tourism and craftsmanship dominate. Visitors come to explore the violin-making legacy, to use the town as a base for mountain excursions into the Karwendel, and to enjoy alpine activities in all seasons. The town also hosts traditional events and markets that reflect Bavarian culture.