European Escapes - SOLD OUT

Sorry, this package is sold out already. We still have spaces available on our October package. Better act fast before it is sold out!

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 allows 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 (6 - 16 December) includes:

• Airport transportation to and from Munich International Airport (set times)
• Hotel accommodations at Edelweiss Resort with alpine view rooms
• 7 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. The Christmas markets bring a festive atmosphere to your holiday season. Explore Garmisch on your own during the two rest days. Make memories you will cherish forever with our ten-day European Escapes package.

Only 22 packages are available for this special European Escapes vacation package.

$1,400 per person based on two adults in a room ($2,800 per couple).
$2,200 single occupancy.

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Arrival Day / Welcome Reception

Friday, 6 December 2019

1200 Private coach departs Munich International Airport
1330 Arrive in Garmisch-Partenkirchen
1515 - 1700 Welcome Reception

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!

Bavarian Brotzeit Ettal Monastery

Saturday, 7 December 2019

0630 - 1000 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
1000 - 1430 Bavarian Brotzeit Ettal Monastery
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

The Ettal Monastery is a stunning example of baroque architecture. You’ll learn the fascinating story of its creation depicted in the stunning frescoes adorning the interior. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the grounds and take a peek at the centuries-old brewery.

You will end up at the cheese factory and sample some of their award-winning creations while you discover the process the local farmers use to make the cheeses. Enjoy a light lunch afterward (not included in price). Before leaving, you will have a chance to buy some of the Monks’ famous beers and liqueurs. Your final stop will be at an authentic Ettaler woodcarving shop

Munich Christmas Market

Sunday, 8 December 2019

0630 - 0900 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0900 - 1700 Munich Christmas Market Tour
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

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. This is where you will find the grand Christkindlmarkt with rows and rows of shops, baked goods, and holiday decor. Afterward, continue on to visit the world-famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall as you learn the history of Munich’s past.

Innsbruck Christmas Market

Monday, 9 December 2019

0630 - 0900 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0900 - 1700 Innsbruck Christmas Market Tour
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

Not far from Garmisch lies the Austrian city of Innsbruck, capital city of the federal state of Tirol in northern Austria and home of the 1964 and 1976 Winter Olympics. Your tour will begin in the smallest town in the entire country of Austria, Rattenberg am Inn. This walled city is known for it's glass blowing shops and artisan crafts.

We then travel to Innsbruck, the capital city of Tirol 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. You'll have some free time in the city to enjoy lunch and stroll through the Christmas Market before heading back to Garmisch.

Nürnberg Christmas Market

Tuesday, 10 December 2019

0630 - 0730 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0730 - 2000 Nürnberg Christmas Market
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

Undoubtedly, the most popular Christmas Market in Germany is the famous Nürnberg Christkindlesmarkt. More than two million visitors from around the world will make their way to this old city to take part in the sights, sounds, and festivities of the holiday season.

Some of the attractions you will be passing by include the Imperial Castle that gives a wonderful view of the old city, the Frauenkirche at Hauptmarkt (pictured below) which is the site of the famous Christkindlesmarkt and the Schöner Brunnen (“Beautiful Fountain”) also nearby. Be sure to spend plenty of time in the market - you will find a very unique and beautiful holiday decor for all ages.

Free Day

Wednesday, 11 December 2019

0630 - 1000 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
1130 - 1300 Lunch at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

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

Mittenwald Christmas Market

Thursday, 12 December 2019

0630 - 1000 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
1400 - 2000 Mittenwald Christmas Market
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

The rural mountain village of Mittenwald rests along the Isar River at the border of Austria and Germany. Known as "The Village of a Thousand Violins," it has been ranked on multiple sites as one of the most authentic and scenic small towns in Europe. Please join us on our picturesque excursion as we learn about the unique history at the Violin Museum, the significance of trade to the local economy, the beauty of the local Luftlmalerei paintings, and much more.

Brixen / Vipiteno Italy Christmas Market

Friday, 13 December 2019

0630 - 0730 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0730 - 2000 Brixen / Vipiteno Italy Christmas Market
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

In the foothills of the Italian Telegraph mountains lies the town of Brixen. Settled in 901 AD, this city is the third largest in the region and sits just south of the Austrian / Italian border.

After a scenic drive through the stunning Brenner Pass you will arrive in this wonderful city famous for its unparalleled blend of Mediterranean and Alpine culture. Brixen is a quaint holiday town filled with history in its facades, art and winding archways throughout the streets. Take some time to stroll through the many shops and boutiques before making a grand stop at an Italian Christmas Market. You will be pleasantly surprised to see such a unique blend of Italian and Austrian goods offered in the same market.

Bad Tolz Christmas Market

Saturday, 14 December 2019

0630 - 0900 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0900 - 1700 Bad Tolz Christmas Market
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

Historical Marktstrasse provides the picturesque setting for the Christmas market in Bad Tölz. Here you can watch artists and artisans at work – chocolatiers for instance. Attending a concert by the famous Bad Tölz boys' choir in a church or at the Kurhaus is a visual treat as well as a delight for the ears. The same goes for the shows at the Bad Tölz puppet theatre.

Free Day

Sunday, 15 December 2019

0630 - 0930 Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
1200 - 1300 Lunch at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*
1630 - 2200 Dinner at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort*

*Not included in the package price

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

In the evening, join us for a final farewell dinner to share memories, photographs and enjoy the company of your fellow retirees one last time before heading home.

Departure Day

Monday, 16 December 2019

0500 - 0530 Check Out / Continental Breakfast at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
0530 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 0530 hrs.. It is about 2 hours to the airport under normal traffic conditions.

Auf Wiedersehen!

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.

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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. $1,400 per person based on two adults in a room ($2,800 per couple).
$2,200 for a single occupancy participant.

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

When will my deposit be charged?

A 50% deposit will be required at the time of booking. If cancelled within 60 days of arrival day, you will forfeit that amount.

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. 50% deposit will be required at the time of booking.

More than 60 days from arrival date: No penalty
59 - 30 days: 50% of the total cost
29 - 0 days: Full cost of package

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 card holders. Sponsors can reserve up to 4 non-ID card holders.

How old must 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
• Europcar 011-49-(0)8821-943083 Garmisch

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

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.
• 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 60 days you will forfeit that deposit.

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Make the decision to come to Garmisch one of the best cultural times of the year. Meet like minded people and enjoy some memorable days in the Alps.

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