I will share my journey with you about a trip that changed how I see travel. I love to take my dog on every adventure. Germany is a place of deep forests and high peaks. It is also a place that loves four-legged friends. Exploring Germany’s Hidden Gems – Dog Friendly Hotels in the Black Forest and Garmisch became my mission. I found that you do not have to leave your furry family member behind. This guide will show you how to do it with style.
Preparing for Your German Adventure
First of all, you must know the rules for your pet. Travel with a dog to Germany requires careful steps. You must get your dog microchipped first. The chip must have 15 digits to meet the rules. Do not give a rabies shot until after the chip is in place. Additionally, your dog needs a valid rabies vaccination at least 21 days before you go. You also need a health certificate from a licensed vet. Though it is easy to enter from some countries, high-risk areas need a blood test three months early.
On top of that, Germany bans some breeds. You cannot bring Pit Bull Terriers or Bull Terriers into the country. It is vital to check the official list before you book. I found that keeping all original papers in a folder is the best way to travel. Similarly, you should check your airline rules. Some airlines like Lufthansa allow pets, but many require them to stay in the hold.
The Magic of the Black Forest
The Black Forest in Baden-Württemberg is a dream for any nature lover. It sits along the French border. I love the mix of old history and green trees. It is the home of the cuckoo clock. Dog friendly accommodation black forest options are plentiful in this region. I started my search for a hotel for dogs germany here. The area has the highest non-alpine mountains in the country.
Relaxing at Hotel Bareiss
I spent time at the Hotel Bareiss in Baiersbronn. This resort is a five-star superior hotel. It has been around for 75 years. They have a very clear policy for dogs. You must tell them early if you bring a pet. They only allow dogs in certain room types. The cost is 35 Euro per day for your dog.
When I arrived, they gave my dog a water dish and a feeding bowl. They even provided a special towel and treats. I thought the dog shower for cleaning after a hike was a great touch. However, you must keep your dog on a leash. They do not allow dogs in the restaurants, the bar, or the spa. Plus, you must bring your own dog basket for them to sleep in.
Finding Bliss at Naturparkhotel Grüner Baum
Gradually, I moved to the Naturparkhotel Grüner Baum. This place is very friendly to pets. They even say that your dog may bring their humans along. They only charge 15 Euro per day for a dog. If you have two dogs, the price is only 25 Euro. On the contrary to many other hotels, they welcome dogs in the restaurant. This made my dinner time much easier.
They provide food bowls and a cozy blanket. You can even store dog food in their fridge or freezer. The hotel is near the Schluchsee lake. It is a great spot for long walks. The forest is right there. Pure nature.
Hidden Hotel Gems in the Woods
I found more options while I was exploring the region. Hotel Traube Tonbach is a top choice in Baiersbronn. It has great reviews and offers dog sitting services. Later, I looked at Hotel am Sophienpark in Baden-Baden. It is right near a park which is perfect for morning walks. They even put treats on the desk for my pet.
Similarly, Berghotel Mummelsee is a pet-friendly star. It is near the water. They give you a thick blanket and bowls upon arrival. The cost is 20 Euro per night. Therefore, you have many choices for a good stay.
Exploring Black Forest Towns
The town of Triberg is a must-see. I took my dog to the Triberg Waterfall. The trail starts right in the town. You can climb up the winding path to the top of the falls. The views are amazing. Afterward, I suggest you try a slice of Black Forest cake.
I also visited Freiburg im Breisgau. It is a university town with cute streets. Kids and dogs love the small canals called Bächle. People splash in them during the summer. It is very charming.
Another hidden gem is Gengenbach. It looks like a fairy tale. The narrow streets and stone fountains are beautiful. At that time, the town felt very quiet and peaceful. I also recommend the Black Forest Open Air Museum. It has old farmhouses from the 16th century. You can learn how people used to live.
Hiking in the National Park
The Black Forest National Park is huge. It covers about 10,000 hectares. The rule here is to let nature be nature. You must keep your dog on a lead at all times. This protects the wild animals. You also must stay on the marked paths.
There are three zones in the park. The core zone is where nature is in charge. The park has 11 moderate trails. I love the dark forests and peaceful lakes. You might even see a pygmy owl. It is the smallest owl in Europe.
Heading South to Garmisch-Partenkirchen
Finally, I drove to the Bavarian Alps. Garmisch-Partenkirchen is a paradise for hikers. It is surrounded by the highest mountains in Germany. The scenery is like something from a storybook. Finding a dog hotel garmisch was my next goal.
Staying at Edelweiss Lodge and Resort
I found the Edelweiss Lodge and Resort at the foot of the Alps. This place is a winter wonderland. They have special rooms for dog lovers. These rooms have a separate entrance. This makes it easy to reach the green spaces. You must book these rooms in advance.
The cost for a dog room is $25 extra per night. They also have dog-friendly cabins in their Vacation Village. The lodge has incredible views from every room. However, dogs are not allowed in the lobby or the restaurants. I found the staff to be very helpful.
The Sustainable Choice: Explorer Hotel
On top of that, I checked out the Explorer Hotel Garmisch. This hotel is all about being green. It is a passive house design. I was happy to find it is pet friendly. The rooms have a modern design. They maximize space with wall storage.
They offer a great breakfast buffet with fresh bread and meats. There is even a DIY egg station. Plus, they have a sports spa with saunas for the humans. It is a great base for active people.
Other Garmisch Options
I found many other Dog Friendly Hotels in the Black Forest and Garmisch during my stay. HENRI Country House allows two pets for 15 Euro a night. Motel Zum Schweizerbartl allows three pets with a small deposit. Similarly, Obermühle Alpin Spa Resort allows two dogs for 10 Euro each per night.
Bader Suites offers upscale apartments where dogs are welcome. They charge 20 Euro per pet each night. If you want a luxury mountain getaway, try Das Graseck. It is accessible by its own cable car. They allow dogs for 20 Euro per night.
Alpine Adventures with Your Dog
There is so much to do in Garmisch with a dog. I visited Lake Eibsee. It is at the base of the Zugspitze. The water is crystal clear and emerald-green. The loop trail is about 4.66 miles long. It takes about two hours to walk. It is an easy path for dogs and children.
Climbing the Zugspitze
I took the cable car to the top of the Zugspitze. It is the highest mountain in Germany at 2,962 meters. I was happy to learn that dogs can ride the cable cars and the cogwheel train. A dog ticket costs seven Euro.
However, you must be careful at the top. There are steel stairs on the summit terrace. These can hurt your dog’s paws. I recommend using the lift or the inside stairs instead. Also, dogs do not have to wear a muzzle, but it is a good idea in crowded cabins.
Exploring Gorges and Waterfalls
The Partnach Gorge is a must-see. It is 700 meters long and 80 meters deep. The path is safe and secure. Best of all, leashed dogs are welcome. The water flows through ice caverns in the winter. It is very mystical.
I also found the Kuhflucht Waterfalls in Farchant. This hike is less crowded. It takes about 45 minutes to reach the top. There are three waterfalls along the way. Plus, there are educational plaques for kids.
Crossing the Border: Dog Friendly Austria
Since Garmisch is near the border, I looked for the best dog friendly hotels austria offers nearby. Some of the best hikes actually start in Austria. The Hochplatte Peak hike starts at Ammerwaldalm in Austria. It is a 36-minute drive from Garmisch. It is a secret spot that is great for weekends.
Similarly, the Lake Drachensee hike is in Tyrol, Austria. It is only a 30-minute drive from Garmisch. You can also find pet-friendly spots in Leutasch and Ehrwald. The whole region is very open to dogs.
Eating Out with Your Pet
I found some great places to eat in the Garmisch area. Sportgaststätte Föhrenheide in Farchant was a favorite. It is a family-owned spot surrounded by sports fields. We sat on the patio and watched locals play games. I recommend the steak with pepper sauce.
Pizzeria Vesuvio is another local favorite. It is near the Loisach bridge. The staff was very kind to my dog. They brought her several treats. At Chapeau Claque in Grainau, the patio is breezy and shaded. I tried the spätzle, and it was some of the best I have ever had.
For a sweet treat, I went to Eiscafe Vittoria in Garmisch. They have a walk-up window. I love their pistachio gelato. It was the perfect stop after a long hike.
Travel Tips for Mature Explorers
I have learned a few things on my tours. First of all, always bring cash. Many mountain huts and restaurants in the Alps do not take cards. They call these huts “Hütte” or “Alm”. Also, buy a good trail map. I used the Kompass Hiking Map for Garmisch and Mittenwald.
If you travel in the winter, some trails are cleared for walking. The Kramer Plateau Trail and the Philosophenweg are great choices. For those who want to relax, visit a thermal spa. Baden-Baden has some of the best ones, like Friedrichsbad. Just remember that dogs usually cannot go into the pool areas.
Why You Should Bring Your Dog
Traveling with a pet opens your mind to new things. You see the world differently. You experience what matters most: family and happiness. I found that my dog helped me meet new people. Other dog owners like to chat in the parks. It is a great way to start a conversation.
Gradually, you will find that a dog makes a vacation better. It takes more planning, but it is worth it. You do not have to worry about being lonely. Your pet gives you so much attention.
FAQ
What is the most dog-friendly city in Germany?
Mittenwald is noted as one of the most scenic and authentic towns in Europe. It sits right on the border and offers a great atmosphere for pet owners.
Where to go in Germany with a dog?
You should head to the Black Forest and Garmisch-Partenkirchen. These spots offer deep woods, high peaks, and many trails. Lake Eibsee and the National Park are top choices for outdoor fun.
Is Munich pet-friendly?
Though, they mention that the Munich airport offers shuttle services for groups and that the city hosts large Christmas markets.
How do I travel with my dog to Germany?
First, you must get your pet microchipped with a 15-digit ISO chip. Then, your pet needs a rabies shot at least 21 days before you leave. You also need a health certificate from a licensed vet. Finally, carry all original papers with you during your trip.
Can dogs fly in cabin Lufthansa?
Lufthansa is one of the few airlines that will take pets. However, many airlines require dogs to stay in the hold rather than the cabin. You must check with them directly for their latest cabin rules.
Are dogs allowed on trains in Germany?
Yes, dogs can ride on specific transport. In the Garmisch area, dogs are welcome on cable cars and cogwheel trains. A dog ticket for these mountain rides costs seven Euro.
Why is Germany so dog friendly?
The culture values nature and inclusion. Many hotels, such as the Naturparkhotel Grüner Baum, allow dogs to sit with you in the restaurant. The country also has many National Parks that welcome leashed pets on marked paths.
Concluding words
Your trip to Germany will be a total joy if you plan ahead. Exploring Germany’s Hidden Gems – Dog Friendly Hotels in the Black Forest and Garmisch shows that the country is perfect for pets. You must handle the microchip and rabies shots first. Once you arrive, stay at top spots like Hotel Bareiss or the Explorer Hotel. You can hike the Zugspitze or walk through the Black Forest National Park together. This journey will help you reconnect with your family and your best friend. Germany is truly a paradise for those who travel with four paws.
