Retiree Vacation Package
European Escapes / 5 - 15 July
We worked together with our tour guides and put together an incredible package that gives any guest a great overview of the Bavarian culture, scenery and history. Plus you get to travel to Austria and experience the area of Tirol with some beautiful cities, shops and museums. You have to be spontaneous for this package and have a zest for travel experiences but you will be rewarded if you make the decision to join us.
Edelweiss Lodge and Resort offers military retirees and their spouses the vacation of a lifetime in one of the most spectacular settings in Europe. Our full-service European Escapes package includes a personal meet and greet at Munich International Airport, private bus transportation to all destinations with a professional English-speaking guide, and a ten-night stay at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
Our goal is to provide our guests with a safe, exciting, and memorable experience in and around the charming town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. The combination of superb facilities, eager-to-please staff, and spectacular location allow retirees to focus on having a great time while we take care of the rest. Travel with like-minded people and make new friends. Share a few laughs. See some beautiful scenery. Learn about the culture. Leave all the planning to us. All you have to do is get here.
European Escapes Package includes:
• Airport transportation to and from Munich International Airport (set times)
• Hotel accommodations at Edelweiss Resort with alpine view rooms
• 8 guided tours with entry tickets included
• Daily breakfast buffet at Market Station restaurant
• Special arrival and farewell receptions
Our English-speaking guides will give you insights into German culture and customs. Explore Garmisch on your own during the two "rest" days. You can make them as exciting or relaxing as you like. Make memories you will cherish forever with our ten-day European Escapes package. Detailed itineraries will be sent at least one month in advance.
Tuesday, 5 July 2022
1200 Private coach departs Munich International Airport
1400 Arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
1500 Evening Welcome Reception (Dinner included)
You will arrive at the Munich International Airport and be greeted by an Edelweiss Lodge and Resort representative. Enjoy some time to mingle with your fellow retirees and stretch your legs after the long flight before boarding a private coach bus en route to Garmisch.
During the drive, watch as the majestic mountains begin to form around you before arriving in the stunning Werdenfelser valley with the highest mountain in all of Germany right at your feet: the Zugspitze. The rest of the afternoon is yours to get checked-in, unpack and relax before attending the Welcome Reception and dinner at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. Then enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep as you prepare to experience the vacation of a lifetime!
Wednesday, 6 July 2022
0630 - 0900 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0900 Depart for Morning Garmisch-Partenkirchen City Tour
1300 Free time for lunch and shopping
1615 Depart for Edelweiss Resort
The quaint town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen quietly rests in the Werdenfelser Valley at the foot of the majestic Bavarian Alps. Weather permitting we will start at the Eibsee where your guide will lead you on a 15-minute walk to one of the best viewpoints of the Zugspitze. From there we will head on a scenic drive around the valley and learn about the unique history of Garmisch and Partenkirchen. Our next stop will be at the famous Olympic Ski Stadium which dates back to the 1936 Winter Olympics.
Your guide will then take you along the cobblestone streets of Partenkirchen pointing out historic buildings, monuments, architecture, shopping spots and more. This beautiful walk down the historic Ludwigstrasse in Partenkirchen – was once a part of the Roman Road from Venice to Augsburg. Enjoy the fascinating murals and art of this cobblestone street before heading west toward Garmisch. You will learn the history of Garmisch, peruse the Marienplatz pedestrian zone, Kurpark and enjoy free time to explore or dine in one of the many amazing Garmisch restaurants.
1830 Bavarian Restaurant Dinner Shuttle
We will make a reservation at a local Bavarian Restaurant for dinner this evening. A shuttle will be provided and dinner is pay as you go.
Thursday, 7 July 2022
0600 – 0700 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
0700 Depart Eagles Nest
1000 Arrive at Eagle’s nest
1300 Depart for Berchtesgaden
1315 Lunch and Free time in Berchtesgaden
1600 Depart for Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Travel to the Obersalzberg area to view one of the most interesting and historic buildings from WWII in all of Germany. You will be given information along the way before ascending to the scenic Eagle’s Nest overlooking the valley. In the event of inclement weather or closure of the Eagle’s Nest the tour will visit the Obersalzberg documentation center. After your visit you’ll stop in Berchtesgaden for lunch and shopping.
Friday, 8 July 2022
0630 - 0830 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0830 Depart for Ettal
0915 Guided Tour of Basilica
0945 Visit brewing museum with schnapps tasting
1030 Visit Cheese Factory (pending COVID restrictions)
1130 Free time to explore monastery gift shop
1200 Depart for Plansee
1300 Arrive at Plansee for lunch
1315 Lunch at Plansee
1515 Depart for Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Buried in the heart of the Ammergau Valley exists the Ettal Monastery. Enjoy a short walk to see the exquisite Basilica. You will learn about the almost 700 years of history that has taken place here in Ettal. Your guide will take you behind the scenes to explore the monastery and get a close up view of the famous Ettal Madonna. We will then visit the newly designed brewing museum to learn about the art of beer making in Bavaria and the over 400 year old brewery at Ettal. Here you will be able to sample various liquors and schnapps made locally by the monks. From the monastery you will take a short walk to the cheese factory where you will discover how local farmers make cheese and other delicious dairy products. At the cheese factory you will have an opportunity to buy different dairy products to go, that are made fresh daily. You will then visit the monastery shop where you can purchase some of the Monks’ famous home-made beers and liqueurs. Following our time in Ettal we will take a beautiful scenic drive out towards the lake known as Plansee. At the Plansee we will have lunch near the lake and continue back to Garmisch.
Saturday, 9 July 2022
0630 - 0930 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Free Day
1815 - 2200 Bavarian Brewery Tour
The day is yours! Some activities you may enjoy include:
• The beautiful Partnach Gorge
• Olympic Ski Jump Stadium
• A stroll through the Marienplatz / Christmas Market
• Drinking traditional Gluhwein
• Shopping in downtown Garmisch
• A dip in our outdoor hot tub
• A bite in a Bavarian café
• Taking a train to a nearby town
• Riding a cable car to the top of Germany - the Zugspitze
• Receiving a relaxing massage from our Wellness club
• Reserve another guided tour!
Enjoy the warmth of a true Bavarian beer hall in the nearby town of Murnau. Go behind the scenes and learn the secrets of brewing your favorite German beers including Helles, Dunkel, and Weissbier. You’ll have an opportunity to sample one of each and try Griesbräu’s very own beer schnapps! But, make sure you pay attention — you’ll be quizzed on what you have learned at the end of the tour. If you pass your exam, you will receive your official Bavarian Brewmeister certification. Bring Euro with you and enjoy the delicious cuisine at the beer hall.
Sunday, 10 July 2022
0630 - 0830 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0830 Depart for Dachau
1030 Arrive at Dachau Concentration Camp
1530 Depart for Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Dachau Concentration Camp was opened in 1933 as the first regular concentration camp established by the National Socialist Party (Nazi Party). You will visit an exhibit that recounts the terrifying and gruesome days of the Holocaust and watch a video of the history of the camp, including special presentations of the notable prisoners. Audio guide is included. The tour guide will provide historical facts along the trip.
Monday, 11 July 2022
0630 - 0830 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0830 Depart for Innsbruck
1000 Arrive at Swarovski Crystal World
1200 Depart for Innsbruck
1230 Arrive in Innsbruck
1245 Lunch at the Augustiner Stiftskeller
1400 Free time to explore Innsbruck
1615 Depart for Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
The Austrian city of Innsbruck is the capital city of Tirol in northern Austria and home of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Swarovski Crystal Worlds was opened in 1995 to mark the centennial anniversary of the company’s founding. Multimedia artist André Heller designed a unique and magical place. This beloved attraction has brought moments of wonder to over fifteen million visitors from all around the world. Visitors are surprised, touched, and perhaps even transformed by crystal in all its facets. We then travel to Innsbruck, renowned for its many churches, extensive walking district and the city's most famous landmark the golden roof adorned with 2,738 fire gilded copper tiles. As a group we have lunch at the Stiftskeller in the old town, followed by free time to explore the city at your own pace.
Tuesday, 12 July 2022
0600 – 0645 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0700 Depart for Lindau
1000 Arrive in Lindau
1015 Walking Tour of Lindau
1200 Lunch and Free time in Lindau
1400 Board ship for 3 Country Panorama Boat Trip
1600 Depart for Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Join us as we explore the beautiful island town of Lindau, located on Lake Constance also known as the Bodensee. This is the largest lake in Germany and Austria. Lindau is known for its mild climate and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding European Alps and sits on the border of Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. After a walking tour of the small island you will be given free time to explore the area at your own pace. We will then take a trip on the three-country panorama boat tour before heading back to Garmisch.
Wednesday, 13 July 2022
0630 - 0930 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
All Day Munich City Tour
1700 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
Bavaria’s heart and soul is arguably its capital city: Munich. Your tour will begin by driving by the grounds of the world-famous Oktoberfest held every year in the “Beer Capital of the World.” You’ll then visit the Marienplatz, site of the Rathaus town hall and the Glockenspiel play clock with dancers, jousters and knights. Afterward, continue on to visit the world-famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall as you learn the history of Munich’s past.
*Not included in the package price
Thursday, 14 July 2022
0630 - 1000 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
1130 - 1300 Lunch at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
1730 - 2000 Farewell Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
The day is yours! See you in the evening for a beautiful meal and evening laughing over stories you experienced through the week.
Some activities you may enjoy during the day include:
• The beautiful Partnach Gorge
• Olympic Ski Jump Stadium
• A stroll through the Marienplatz / Christmas Market
• Drinking traditional Gluhwein
• Shopping in downtown Garmisch
• A dip in our outdoor hot tub
• A bite in a Bavarian café
• Taking a train to a nearby town
• Riding a cable car to the top of Germany - the Zugspitze
• Receiving a relaxing massage from our Wellness club
We will help organize COVID testing for the group and will let you know what the plan is when you arrive. Right now it is too far in advance to determine what will be required.
Friday, 15 July 2022
0430 - 0530 Check Out / Continental Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0500 Depart for Munich International Airport
Thank you for choosing to visit Edelweiss Lodge and Resort for your special Retiree vacation. The private coach bus will depart Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at 0500 hrs. It is about 2 hours to the airport under normal traffic conditions.
Auf Wiedersehen!
$3,695 per couple (double occupancy in a room)
$2,695 single occupancy
European Escapes Packages includes:
• Bus transportation to and from Munich International Airport (set times)
• Hotel accommodations at Edelweiss Resort with alpine view rooms
• Guided tours with entry tickets included
• Daily breakfast buffet at Market Station restaurant
• Special arrival and farewell receptions
Additional information
• Package does not include airfare.
• The itinerary is subject to changes.
• This package is confirmed a go with no minimum participation
• Substituting guided tours is not possible.
• Eligible guests can sponsor non-military ID cardholders (up to 4)
• Package prices are based upon two adults in a standard room.
Reserve July
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the price cover?
The price includes ten nights in a standard room at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. The price per person is based on two adults staying in a standard room for ten nights. $3,695 per couple or $2,695 for single occupancy.
Additionally, the price includes:
• Transportation from Munich International Airport to Garmisch via private coach bus
• Welcome Reception on the day of your arrival
• Breakfast at Market Station each morning
• Special European Escapes tours given by professional guides with transportation
• Farewell Dinner the day before your departure
• Transportation from Garmisch to Munich International Airport via private coach bus
What are the vaccine requirements to enter Germany?
Currently, it is required you be fully vaccinated and provide a rapid test within 48 hours. This could change by the time the tour comes around so it is suggested you monitor the health ministry website for up-to-date regulations.
When will my deposit be charged?
A 50% deposit will be required at the time of booking. If canceled within 60 days of arrival day, you will forfeit the full amount of your deposit.
What is the cancellation policy?
Our cancellation policy for European Escapes differs from our normal hotel stay policy to ensure maximum participation in the program. A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. The other 50% will be charged 60 days prior. The deposit is refundable if the reservation is canceled more than 60 days prior to arrival. Cancellations that occur within 60 days will result in the loss of the deposit. COVID is no longer a valid reason for cancellation within our policy. We suggest you purchase travel insurance. In the event we are forced to close due to government restrictions, you will receive a full refund.
What are the accommodations? May I upgrade?
European Escapes accommodations are a standard room with two queen beds. No upgrades are available.
How many rooms may be reserved?
You can reserve as many rooms as you like for non-military ID cardholders. Sponsors can reserve up to 4 non-ID cardholders.
How old must the guest be?
Guests of the sponsors must be at least 18 years old.
When does the shuttle run to the airport?
The airport shuttle is only available on the designated arrival and departure days.
Arrival: MUC to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at 1200 hrs
Departure: Edelweiss Lodge and Resort to MUC at 0530 hrs
Can I book additional days or tours?
Absolutely, additional days or tours may be booked through Vacation Planning. There are free days scheduled during the package for this very reason.
What is the voltage at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?
All electronic outlets in the hotel are 220 volts. If your appliance is dual-voltage then only an adapter will be needed to make the plug fit.
Can I exchange currency at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?
Currency exchange is not available at the resort. However, it may be done at the Munich airport. We do have an ATM that distributes Euro and US dollars in the main lobby.
Are there ATM’s at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?
Two ATM’s in the main lobby of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort dispense both USD and Euro, but you must have a PIN number with your card.
What currency can I use at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?
Both USD and Euro are accepted at Edelweiss. However, if you pay in Euro, your change is given back in dollars.
What currency is accepted in town?
Only Euro currency is accepted in town.They do accept credit cards, however it is possible they will not accept the card.
Does the Edelweiss Resort offer laundry service?
There are washing machines and dryers located at the Edelweiss Lodge. Supplies are available for purchase on-site.
Are Edelweiss Lodge and Resort tours physically demanding?
Part of the charm of Europe is in its walking districts which are not accessible by car. Please note that most tours require moderate walking. Tour guides set a pace for everyone in the group to enjoy the sites. One in particular, Neuschwanstein Castle sits atop a steep hill but horse drawn carriages are available for hire and are popular.
Are retiree ID card holders eligible to use the AAFES exchange and post office?
Due to international agreements, the use of the Commissary, Community Bank and PX/BX are limited to personnel assigned to US Forces in Europe and NATO ID card holders who have this privilege. This includes rationed items such as gas coupons. Be aware that gas prices are considerably higher compared to US standards. Military Post Offices may be used only be retirees who reside in Germany for over 30 days and who have Box R privileges with restrictions. Alpine Adventures is located in Edelweiss Lodge and Resort and has an excellent array of Bavarian items, t-shirts and other souvenirs.
Is there a place to rent a car in Garmisch or Munich Airport?
You may reserve a car while staying at the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort.
• Europcar 011-49-(0)180-58000 Munich International Airport
• Sixt 9+089-66060060 Located at Burgstrasse 12A
• Avis 9+0173-3476183 Located at St. Martinstraße 17
• Europcar 9+943083 Located at St. Martinstraße 6
To get to the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort using a GPS navigation systems use the address : 17 Gernackerstrasse, 82467 Garmisch
What if I need medical care?
We suggest you read through the Tricare overseas website to be familiar with your coverage. Garmisch has very good medical facilities if required.
http://www.tricare-overseas.com/contact-us/eurasia-africa
http://www.tricare-overseas.com/beneficiaries/resources
When will we get a detailed itinerary?
Detailed itineraries will be sent at least one month in advance once you are confirmed on the tour.
Additional Information
• The European Escapes package does not include dinner or airfare in the total price.
• The itinerary is subject to small changes. A finalized schedule will be provided to you upon arrival.
• Substituting guided tours is not possible.
• All retirees and their guests are eligible to participate in the European Escapes packages.
• Package prices are based upon two adults in a standard room. Retiree ID Card holders may sponsor up to 4 guests per ID card. You can sponsor additional rooms for non-ID card holders.
• You will receive an e-mail confirmation from our Vacation Planning Center once you make your reservation. We will take a 50% deposit at the time of booking. If you cancel within 30 days you will forfeit the full amount of the package.
About Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Resting at the foot of the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest mountain, Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is a resort destination designed for eligible military personnel and their families. With 256 rooms and suites, we have comfortable spaces and mountain views for retirees and their families.
When the tours are over, we have amenities focused on your relaxation. Head to the hot tub to soak away any stress. Take a refreshing swim and lay back in the water jets to soothe your sore muscles.
We also have restaurants for every taste. Hang out at Zuggy's Base Camp and watch some sports and enjoy a pizza. Or start your morning with a delicious American buffet and a chef-prepared omelet in Market Station.