Hoher Kranzberg, Karwendel

On a glorious summer’s day – not too hot, with a blue and white, high-contrast sky and intense light – we chose Hoher Kranzberg near Mittenwald as the perfect family excursion destination for Sunday. The path doesn’t climb too many metres in altitude and would also be well-suited for smaller children; the ‘Buckelwiesen’ (hummock meadows) offer plenty of space to run around and rest areas, there are many refreshment stops along the way, and for those who don’t usually get much contact with nature, a barefoot path has also been set up.

At the summit, there’s a magnificent panorama with the towering Northern Karwendel Range, the Soiern Group, the Estergebirge, and even the Wetterstein Mountains. All are appealing tour destinations, which I’d prefer to tackle more athletically without the family – in due course. To the north, the hummock meadows stretch towards Klais, Barmsee, and the Walchensee area, which are more leisurely destinations.

Besides Mittenwald – from where a lift can ease the ascent – the road to Luttensee is a good starting point; especially if you take the circular route via Wildensee on the way back.