In the southeastern corner of Germany, where the borders with Czechia and Austria converge, lies a vast region that might easily be mistaken for the Canadian Rockies, thanks to its breathtaking alpine scenery.

Welcome to Bavaria, a land of enchanting landscapes featuring shimmering lakes, lush forests, and majestic snow-dusted peaks. This picturesque region offers a taste of Canada’s awe-inspiring natural beauty without the need for a long-haul flight.

Only a brief two-hour plane ride from the UK, Bavaria—officially known as the Free State of Bavaria—spans nearly a fifth of Germany’s territory. This expansive state stretches from the central German highlands to the towering Alps.

To the north, it borders the German states of Thuringia and Saxony, while to the east, it meets Czechia. Its southern and southeastern edges are lined by Austria, and to the west, it shares boundaries with Baden-Württemberg and Hessen.

Munich serves as Bavaria’s capital, but the state is also home to other significant cities like Nuremberg, Augsburg, and Regensburg, though they are located at a distance.

Nevertheless, the true allure of Bavaria undeniably resides in its unique Alpine terrain, drawing visitors to its stunning natural wonders.

Bavaria is home to stunning peaks, crystal-clear lakes such as Chiemsee and Starnberger See, sprawling forests and national parks that offer skiing, hiking, water sports and other adventure activities. 

From Germany’s highest peak, Zugspitze, to rolling vineyards, to rugged snow-capped mountain ranges, the state’s scenery is remarkably diverse.

Bavaria, Germany, is home to sparkling lakes, dense forests and snow-capped summits that mirror Canada’s natural beauty

Sleepy, medieval towns across the state are marked by cobblestone streets, baroque churches and crooked half-timbered houses

Bavaria’s primary appeal undoubtedly lies in its distinctive Alpine landscape, complete with crystal-clear lakes and romantic mountain ranges 

Adding its fairytale flair and storybook charm is a number of iconic castles, including Neuschwanstein and Linderhof Palace, while its medieval towns are marked by cobblestone streets, baroque churches and crooked half-timbered houses.

Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a picturesque town located in the Franconia region, is so enchanting in its appearance that it actually served as inspiration for Pinocchio’s village in the Disney classic. 

As for food and drink, Bavaria is famed for its world-class beer, often referred to as ‘liquid bread,’ along with numerous breweries and festivals like Oktoberfest.  

Visitors can tuck into heart Bavarian cuisine, such as pretzels, Weißwurst (white sausage), and sample local wine. 

Luckily, there are multiple relatively straightforward options for those looking to visit Bavaria from the UK, though some journeys are longer than others. 

Those who would prefer to travel via air can fly from London airports to either Munich International Airport or Nuremburg Airport, which takes nearly two hours to either destination. One-way flights with Ryanair cost as little as £30.

From Munich, a regular train, costing around £9 to £13, takes passengers directly to Marienplatz in Bavaria in less than an hour.  From Nuremburg, a £14 rail journey also transports visitors to the same station within 80 minutes. 

For sustainable travellers who’d rather relax and enjoy countryside views along the way, a 9-hour train from London St Pancras to Marienplatz via Brussels, Frankfurt, München and Karlsplatz is an option, costing between £99 and £350 for one-way.

Pictured: Moraine Lake, located in Alberta, Canada, in summer time

Pictured: Autumn view of the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle at sunset

Bavaria is home to stunning peaks, crystal-clear lakes such as Chiemsee, Königssee (pictured) and Starnberger See

When visiting Bavaria, sampling its hearty cuisine is a must. Pictured: Bavarian sausages with sauerkraut on a pan

Looking elsewhere in Europe for a storybook escape? Annecy in the French Alps happens to be another real-life fairytale village.

The town in southeastern France is nestled by Lake Annecy, one of the cleanest lakes in Europe, where visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, boating and cycling along its shores.

It is often called the ‘Venice of the Alps’ because of the winding canals that flow through its picturesque old town.

Annecy’s old town, the Vieille Ville, has more waterways than roads, surrounded by 16th and 17th-century buildings. The water comes from the River Thiou, which, at only 3.5km long, is one of Europe’s shortest rivers, connecting the River Fier to Lake Annecy.