Edelweiss Lodge and Resort is proud to host the VFW Eastern States Conference in the heart of the Bavarian Alps.
November 1 - 9, 2026 / Reserve Now!
Where VFW Comes Together
Spend incredible days in the Bavarian Alps connecting with like-minded VFW members from across the Eastern States in a setting designed for camaraderie, reflection, and shared experiences. Guests arrive on Sunday and spend the week exploring the region together through guided tours, cultural experiences, and relaxed evenings sharing stories at Zuggy’s Base Camp.
Throughout the week, guests enjoy the comforts of Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, including new dining options and time to unwind in the alpine wellness area with hot tub, sauna, steam room, and pool. Everything is thoughtfully arranged — simply book the package and show up. We take care of the rest.
The week wraps up with conference meetings and the official Saturday session, bringing everyone together to conduct conference business after a full week of connection and shared experiences. Guided tours will be available to reserve at a later date once schedules are finalized with local venues, allowing flexibility to choose the activities that interest you most.
One thing is certain: you will look back on this trip and be glad you invested the time and resources to connect in the Bavarian Alps. This is a truly unique opportunity to strengthen the bonds the VFW helps create, in one of Europe’s most iconic mountain regions.
Be a part of this unique opportunity to have so many VFW members under one roof in Bavaria. Price for two adults only $2,549!
• 8 nights accommodations at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
• Round-trip airport transfers to and from Munich International Airport on designated times:
• Sunday, 1 Nov. bus departs Munich 1000, 1200, 1400, or 1600
• Monday, 9 Nov. bus departs Edelweiss 0500, 0700, 0900, or 1100
• Welcome reception with fellow VFW members
• Daily breakfast at the Summit Breakfast Buffet
• Saturday Banquet Dinner
• Shuttle transportation to a Bavarian dinner (dinner is pay as you go)
• Edelweiss Alpine Wellness Club (hot tub, sauna, steam room, pool)
• $2049 single occupancy — reserve now!
• $2549 double occupancy — reserve now!
Space is limited and availability is first come, first served. Reserve your package early to secure your place and be part of this unforgettable VFW experience in the Bavarian Alps.
Cancellation Policy :
• Prior to 4 June (150 days) free
• After 4 June will result in loss of deposit
• Cancellations that occur within 30 days (1 OCT) will be charged in full.
Program of Events
Arrival Day – Munich Airport to the Bavarian Alps
Pick-up is provided at Munich International Airport on designated departure times of 1000, 1200, 1400, and 1600. Our staff will be there to welcome you upon arrival and assist with your transfer to the resort.
From Munich, we’ll head straight to the mountains. After approximately two hours, you’ll arrive at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, your home away from home for the week. Take time to settle in, explore the property, and get oriented to everything the resort has to offer.
In the early evening, join fellow participants for a welcome reception, a relaxed opportunity to meet and connect before the week begins. Afterward, enjoy a restful night and recharge after your journey across the Atlantic — the adventures of Bavaria await.
Wake up each morning to a generous breakfast spread at our new Summit Buffet, featuring chef-prepared eggs and a wide selection of American breakfast classics to start your day right.
Guided tours are not included in the package price, but guests may choose from a variety of optional excursions offered throughout the week. Once you have reserved your spot for the conference, you will receive an email later in the summer with details on how to reserve guided tours. Take as many or as few as you like — spend the day sightseeing, or simply relax and enjoy the resort at your own pace. How you experience Bavaria is entirely up to you.
On Monday, guests may choose from several guided tour options. Highlights include the chance to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, King Ludwig II’s iconic fairytale castle set high in the Bavarian Alps, or explore the artistic installations at Swarovski Crystal Worlds, a unique attraction showcasing crystal displays and design. Additional excursions range from scenic nature walks to historic city visits and cultural experiences.
Monday – Tour Options
• Garmisch city tour
• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Partnach Gorge
• Dachau Memorial Site
• Swarovski Crystal Worlds
• Innsbruck
• Salzburg
• Griesbräu Brewery
Wake up each morning to a generous breakfast spread at our new Summit Buffet, featuring chef-prepared eggs and a wide selection of American breakfast favorites to fuel the day ahead.
Guided tours are not included in the package price, but guests may choose from a variety of optional excursions offered throughout the week. Once you have reserved your spot for the conference, you will receive an email later in the summer with details on how to reserve guided tours. Take as many or as few as you like — spend the day sightseeing, or slow things down and enjoy the resort at your own pace. How you experience Bavaria is entirely up to you.
On Tuesday, guests may choose from several tour options across the region. You might spend the day in Mittenwald, a picturesque alpine town known for its colorful frescoed houses, mountain setting, and traditional Bavarian charm, including time to explore its historic streets and local shops. Another popular option is Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, where guests can wander one of Europe’s best-preserved Old Towns, admire baroque architecture, and enjoy the city made famous by The Sound of Music.
Tuesday – Tour Options
• Garmisch City Tour
• Mittenwald
• Ettal
• Linderhof Palace
• Salzburg
• Italian Wine Tour
• Greisbrau
On Wednesday, guests may choose from a variety of guided tour options across the region. Highlights include Linderhof Palace, King Ludwig II’s intimate alpine residence, known for its ornate interiors, beautiful gardens, and the iconic Venus Grotto. Another popular option is Ettal, home to the historic Ettal Monastery, where guests can experience Bavarian culture and learn about centuries-old monastic traditions.
Guests may also choose a cross-border Italian Wine Tour to Novacella Abbey, one of the world’s oldest wineries with over 800 years of winemaking history. Set in northern Italy, Novacella Abbey offers a unique opportunity to learn about monastic wine production while tasting wines that have been crafted on the estate for centuries.
Additional Wednesday tour options offer a mix of alpine charm and international flavor, from the frescoed streets of Mittenwald to the opportunity to explore Swarovski Crystal Worlds and Innsbruck, combining art, design, and a classic alpine city setting.
Wednesday – Tour Options
• Mittenwald
• Linderhof Palace
• Ettal
• Italian Wine Tour (Novacella Abbey)
• Swarovski / Innsbruck
Once you have reserved your conference package, we will email you in the summer with details on how to reserve your guided tours.
On Thursday, guests may choose from a range of guided tour options offering both reflection and relaxation. One option includes a visit to Dachau Memorial Site, a meaningful and educational experience that provides historical context and time for remembrance. For a more social evening experience, guests may choose Griesbräu Brewery, where they can enjoy traditional Bavarian beer and a classic regional meal in a relaxed setting.
Other Thursday tour options include scenic alpine excursions and international day trips, offering opportunities to explore famous landmarks, dramatic natural landscapes, and neighboring regions beyond Bavaria.
Thursday – Tour Options
• Neuschwanstein
• Partnach Gorge
• Dachau
• Salzburg
• Italian Wine Tour (Novacella Abbey)
• Greisbrau
Once you have reserved your conference package, we will email you in the summer with details on how to reserve your guided tours.
Wake up to a generous breakfast spread at our Summit Buffet, featuring chef-prepared eggs and a wide selection of American breakfast favorites to start your day right.
Over the past few days, you’ve had the opportunity to experience the cultural highlights of the region — from meaningful historical sites such as Dachau Memorial Site, to scenic journeys into Italy or Austria, and everything in between. Friday is a chance to slow the pace, reflect on the experiences you’ve shared, and enjoy one final evening together.
Tonight, guests are invited to a traditional Bavarian evening. Transportation is included, with restaurant shuttles departing in the evening. Meals and drinks are pay-as-you-go. Space is limited, and advance sign-up is required.
Friday evening shuttles to Bavarian Dinner
• 1800
• 1830
• 1900
(90 guests per departure)
Wake up and enjoy breakfast at the Summit Buffet before transitioning into the official portion of the conference. Saturday focuses on conference business, including housekeeping items such as organizational updates, lines of effort, upcoming projects, and a review of the current outlook and state of affairs.
Following the session, we will have a beautiful Banquet Dinner in the General Patton Ballroom where we can take time to reflect on a memorable week of activities, guided tours, and shared social experiences in the Bavarian Alps. The remainder of the day is yours to relax, connect with fellow members.
Saturday brings the week full circle — a time to conclude official business while looking back on a meaningful and well-spent week together. Sunday is another day to get in any last minute outings you regret not being a part of during the week.
Sunday begins with a delicious breakfast at the Summit Breakfast Buffet, the perfect way to ease into a well-earned day of rest. After the conference meetings and a busy week of guided tours and unforgettable sightseeing, this day is designed for slowing down and enjoying Bavaria at your own pace.
You may choose to explore Garmisch favorites such as a trip up the Zugspitze, enjoy a leisurely stroll through town, or simply relax at the resort and wellness area. Take time to pick up souvenirs, get everything packed, check in for your flight, and prepare for departure the following day. Guided tours will also be available on this day if there was an experience earlier in the week that someone recommended and you’d like to try.
It’s a quiet pause at the end of a full and memorable week — the perfect way to wrap up the experience before heading home on Monday.
Monday is departure day, with scheduled transfers to Munich International Airport at designated times of 0500, 0700, 0900, and 1100. The journey to Munich takes approximately two hours, providing a final chance to take in the alpine scenery before heading home. Our recommendation is departing Edelweiss Resort no less than five hours before your scheduled flight.
As you depart Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, you’ll leave with new friends, lasting memories, and zero regrets about making the journey. It’s a truly unique experience — one defined by connection, reflection, and time well spent in the Bavarian Alps.
Guided Tours
Enhance your conference experience with optional guided tours showcasing the culture, history, and landscapes of Bavaria and neighboring regions. Tours are offered on select days and may be reserved after conference registration later in the year. Each tour includes transportation and professional guides.
1030–1430 | $45 | Walkability: 3
Explore the historic Ettal Monastery and learn about Bavarian monastic life, including traditional beer and spirit production. The tour concludes with a visit to a local cheese shop to sample regional specialties.
0700–2000 | $130 | Walkability: 3
Travel into northern Italy to visit Novacella Abbey, a 12th-century monastery surrounded by vineyards. Enjoy a wine tasting before free time for lunch in the town of Bressanone.
0900–1600 | $38 | Walkability: 3
Discover the charm of Garmisch-Partenkirchen, beginning with panoramic views at Eibsee Lake beneath the Zugspitze. Continue through the Werdenfelser Valley, visit the 1936 Olympic Ski Stadium, and stroll the historic streets of Partenkirchen.
0900–1300 | $35 | Walkability: 4
Walk through the dramatic Partnach Gorge, featuring crystal-clear waterfalls, narrow rock passages, and insights into the region’s Olympic history.
1800–2200 | $54 | Walkability: 1
Spend an evening learning about traditional Bavarian beer-making while enjoying beer samples and a classic Bavarian meal in a relaxed, social setting.
1000–1500 | $47 | Walkability: 2
Visit the picturesque alpine town of Mittenwald, known for its colorful frescoed houses. The tour includes time in the historic town center and a visit to the renowned Violin Making Museum.
0830–1700 | $99 | Walkability: 5
Tour King Ludwig II’s iconic fairytale castle set high in the Bavarian Alps. Includes castle admission, as well as visits to the Wieskirche and a traditional wood carving shop.
0845–1700 | $70 | Walkability: 4
Explore Linderhof Palace, the smallest of King Ludwig II’s castles, featuring ornate interiors, landscaped gardens, and the Venus Grotto. The day concludes with a guided walking tour of Oberammergau.
0830–1700 | $65 | Walkability: 2
A guided and reflective visit to the Dachau Memorial Site, offering historical context through preserved buildings, exhibits, and memorial spaces honoring the victims of the Holocaust.
0830–1700 | $99 | Walkability: 3
Visit Swarovski Crystal Worlds, created for the company’s centennial celebration, followed by lunch and free time in Innsbruck’s Old Town, home to the famous Golden Roof.
0700–2000 | $130 | Walkability: 4
Explore Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and setting of The Sound of Music. Visit one of Europe’s best-preserved Old Towns, featuring baroque architecture, historic squares, and local cafés.
1 = Almost no walking
2 = Some walking but guests can choose to walk less
3 = Moderate amount of walking with some uneven ground or stairs
4 = Approximately 2 hours of walking during the day with uneven ground or stairs
5 = More than 2 hours of walking/hiking with elevation gain
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the conference package?
The package includes 8 nights accommodations at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, round-trip airport transfers on designated arrival and departure days and times, daily breakfast at the Summit Breakfast Buffet, a welcome reception, Saturday banquet dinner, shuttle transportation to a traditional Bavarian dinner (dinner is pay as you go), and access to Edelweiss Alpine Wellness (hot tub, sauna, steam room, and pool).
What is the cancellation policy?
A 50% deposit is required by 4 JUNE, with remaining 50% being charged upon arrival. The deposit is refundable if the reservation is cancelled more than 150 days prior to arrival (NLT 4 JUNE 2026). Cancellations that occur within the 150 days will result in the loss of the deposit. Cancellations that occur within 30 days (1 OCT) will be charged in full. We suggest you purchase travel insurance. In the event we are forced to close due to government restrictions you will receive a full refund.
Are guided tours included in the package price?
No. Guided tours are optional and not included in the package price. Guests may reserve tours separately once the tour schedule is finalized on 1 June 2025.
When can I reserve guided tours?
Once you have reserved your conference package, you will receive an email by 1 June 2025 with instructions on how to reserve guided tours. Guests may reserve as many or as few tours as they like, subject to availability.
Can I book additional nights at Edelweiss Resort?
Yes, but there are some things to consider. This is a package price for set arrival and departure days. If you arrive or leave on a different day than the set days, you are responsible for the cost to get to Munich. There are no exceptions. Transportation to/from Munich are only on the set arrival and departure days and times. Extended stays will be at regular rates for additional nights based on rank.
Can I arrive earlier or depart later than the package dates?
The conference package is based on fixed arrival and departure dates. Requests to arrive earlier or depart later are not possible.
What if I want to depart earlier than the scheduled departure date?
Guests may depart earlier; however, airport transfers outside the designated departure times are not included. Any alternate transportation arrangements would be the guest’s responsibility. You will not be refunded for any nights you didn't stay at Edelweiss Resort. The package price and dates are set.
What if I want to arrive later than the scheduled arrival day?
This is not possible. We have a block of rooms only for the November 1 - 8 dates. Airport transfers are only provided on designated arrival times, and alternative transportation would be the guest’s responsibility.
When does the airport shuttle run?
Airport transfers are provided only on designated days and times.
Arrival: Munich International Airport to Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at scheduled times
Departure: Edelweiss Lodge and Resort to Munich International Airport at scheduled times
Is airfare included?
No. Airfare is not included. Guests are responsible for booking their own flights to and from Munich International Airport.
Who is eligible to book this package?
This package is available to VFW members. If you do not have a valid military retiree card, we have sponsors available to sign you in.
I have a retired military ID. Can I access the installation?
Yes. Guests with a valid military ID may access the installation. Please ensure your ID is not expired and will remain valid for the duration of your visit. Access to certain base facilities may be restricted due to international agreements.
Can I sponsor non-ID card holders?
Yes. Eligible sponsors may sponsor non-ID card holders in accordance with Edelweiss Lodge and Resort policies. Sponsors may reserve up to four non-ID card holders per sponsor. All sponsored guests must be registered in advance.
How many rooms may be reserved?
Sponsors may reserve multiple rooms for non-ID card holders, subject to the maximum sponsorship limits and availability.
How old must sponsored guests be?
Sponsored guests must be at least 18 years old.
What are the accommodations? Can I upgrade?
Accommodations are standard rooms with two queen beds. Room upgrades are not available for this package.
When will my deposit be charged?
A 50% deposit is required 60 days in advance. The remaining 50% will be charged 30 days in advance.
Are there vaccination requirements to enter Germany?
Currently, no proof of vaccination is required to enter Germany. Guests are responsible for reviewing the German Health Ministry website for the most up-to-date entry requirements.
Does Germany require a visa to enter the country?
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) has been delayed. Beginning in October, travelers from visa-exempt countries may be required to obtain travel authorization prior to entering most European countries. Guests are responsible for confirming entry requirements before travel.
What currency can I use at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort?
Both U.S. dollars and Euros are accepted at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort. If you pay in Euros, change is returned in U.S. dollars.
Is currency exchange available at the resort?
Currency exchange is not available at the resort. Exchange services are available at Munich International Airport. Two ATMs in the main lobby dispense both U.S. dollars and Euros (PIN required).
What currency is accepted in town?
Only Euros are accepted in town. Credit cards are commonly accepted, but acceptance is not guaranteed everywhere.
Does Edelweiss Lodge and Resort offer laundry facilities?
Yes. Washing machines and dryers are available on site. Laundry supplies may be purchased at the resort.
Are retiree ID card holders eligible to use the PX, Commissary, or Post Office?
Due to international agreements, use of the Commissary, Community Bank, and PX/BX is limited to personnel assigned to U.S. Forces in Europe and NATO ID card holders with those privileges. Retirees residing in Germany for more than 30 days may access Military Post Offices with Box R privileges and restrictions. Alpine Adventures, located inside Edelweiss Lodge and Resort, offers Bavarian items, apparel, and souvenirs.
Is there car rental available in Garmisch or at Munich Airport?
Yes. Car rentals are available at Munich International Airport and locally. Guests are advised not to select “military” when reserving a vehicle.
Europcar – Munich International Airport
Sixt – Garmisch-Partenkirchen
What address should I use for GPS navigation?
Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
Gernackerstrasse 17
82467 Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany
What if I need medical care while in Germany?
Guests are encouraged to review the TRICARE Overseas website to understand coverage. Garmisch-Partenkirchen has excellent local medical facilities if needed.
http://www.tricare-overseas.com/contact-us/eurasia-africa
http://www.tricare-overseas.com/beneficiaries/resources
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.
What is the cancellation policy for the VFW Conference?
Our cancellation policy for the VFW Conference differs from our normal hotel stay policy to ensure maximum participation in the program. A 50% deposit is required 60 days prior to the conference, with the remaining 50% being charged 30 days in advance. 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. We suggest you purchase travel insurance.
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 Summit.