Crossing the Alps: 7 stages from Lake Tegernsee to Vipiteno
Crossing the Alps on foot had been on my wish list for a long time. In September 2020, I fulfilled this dream. Alone, without a mountain guide, but with organized luggage transport.
I hiked the Alpine crossing from Tegernsee to Sterzing on foot. Each day had its own character: relaxed paths along Lake Tegernsee, alpine ascents, rainy weather, moments of happiness, and decisions that you only make when you are truly on the road.
On this page, you will find my personal experiences for all seven stages. Honest, without a high-gloss filter, and with many details that would have helped me with my own planning.
ℹ️ Quick overview of the Alpine crossing
- Route: Tegernsee (Germany) → Sterzing (Italy)
- Duration: 7 hiking days
- Difficulty: moderate (some alpine sections)
- Suitable for: experienced hikers with good fitness
- Organization: booked via die-alpenueberquerung.de (hotels, luggage transfer, return journey)
- Special feature: very well doable alone
Stage 1
From Lake Tegernsee to Wildbad Kreuth
My journey across the Alps begins in Gmund: with sun, cows, ice cream on the promenade, and a historic rowboat ferry.
You can read here why I didn't quite make it all the way but was still completely happy.