What is The Partnachklamm ?
The Partnachklamm is a gorge in the alps of Bavaria, located in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen area.
It was declared a "Natural Monument" in 1912 and has since been named a "National Geosite".
The gorge is a natural conduit for the Partnach River. It runs 800 meters (2,625 feet) between limestone walls that reach 80 meters (262 feet) high, creating one of the most beautiful gorges in the alpine region.
Getting To and Around the Partnachklamm
If you are based in Munich, it will make a nice day trip and pretty easy to reach.
A pleasant 30 minute walk from the Olympic Ski Stadium (Skistadion), or a ride in a horse-drawn carriage will get you to the entrance of the gorge.
When you visit, make sure you wear sturdy walking shoes or boots. It is narrow, uneven and wet in many places.
The foot path follows along the water’s edge. A series of tunnels and galleries is carved out of the rock along one side so you can walk along the rushing river. The churning pools of white-blue water and deafening waterfalls are breathtaking,and a surprise spray of water is bound to get you wet.
An alternate route is the “Eiserne Brücke,” (Iron Bridge). It stretches 80 meters over the gorge and provides another amazing perspective of the gorge, (as long as you aren’t afraid of heights!). The bridge was built in 1914 and also connects two popular hiking areas - the Hausberg and the Eckbauer.
When is the Best Time to Go?
It is open year round, seven days a week, except for a short time in the spring when the water level rises due to the melting snow making the gorge too dangerous.
Once the ice has melted and the rushing water is at a safe level through the narrow rock walls, many hiking tours and mountain climbing expeditions around Garmisch-Partenkirchen set off from here.
In the summer, the gorge offers a refreshing break from the heat. The cool water sprays and deep shade in the narrow gorge make it a fun place to linger during the long, warm days.
In the cold months of winter, you can walk beneath curtains of icicles and frozen waterfalls. It is a magical sight!
Take the guided torchlight tour through the gorge. Then make a short climb up to the top for a glass of gluhwein or a fondue dinner at the Forsthaus Graseck. Afterwards, ride the hotel's private gondola back to the valley. Talk about Romantic!
A visit to the Partnachklamm is a "must do". It is inexpensive and just an all around great time!
Admission Charge:
Adults: € 2
€ 1.5 with a Visitor's Card
Kids (6-16 years): € 1
Due to security reasons boats, bicycles and strollers can NOT be taken into the gorge!
