Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Ruhpolding is a picturesque German town renowned as a centre for Olympic biathlon training. It lies along the Weisse Traun River and is one of the last settlements visited when driving west to east along the spectacular German Alpine Road.
Things to do in Ruhpolding
In the summer months, you can enjoy a ride on the Chiemgau Coaster, which has sleds designed for two people. Extending for just over one kilometre, the track includes steep curves, roundabouts and jumps that can be negotiated at speeds of up to 40 kilometres an hour. Also on site is a children’s playground and a sun-drenched cafe where you can grab drinks and snacks.
For a rejuvenating soak, head to the Vita Alpina Erlebnis & Wellnessbad, which comprises a 50-metre swimming pool, a water slide and a children’s paddling pool. You can dive from one of the multi-level towers, splash around in the wave pool or let the kids run loose in the water playground. The aquatic centre also includes a sauna, a restaurant and a large sunbathing lawn.
Travelling with kids? Don't miss a visit to Freizeitpark Ruhpolding, which occupies a scenic wooded setting to the south-west of Ruhpolding. Whizz through the treetops on the “Gipfelstürmer" mountain roller course and challenge yourself on the “Gratwandern" ropes course or venture into the Ruhpolding Crystal Mine. Young children will love meeting Snow White and Hansel and Gretel in the fairytale wonderland.
Getting around Ruhpolding
Ruhpolding is around 40 minutes’ drive from Salzburg and 30 minutes from Salzburg Airport, which has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe and the Middle East. Regular trains connect to the Ruhpolding railway station and buses travel through the municipality. The centre of Ruhpolding is compact enough to explore on foot.