Central Europe Journey | Ramsau: Capturing Beauty and Magic

There's a lyric that goes, "Send those memories as postcards." Today, let's embark on a journey to chase the enchanting scenery found on postcards—Ramsau. Ramsau is a small town near the German-Austrian border, located at the northern edge of Berchtesgaden National Park, nestled at the foot of the Alps. The town, built along a river valley, is home to about 1,700 residents. A rural road runs through it, flanked by scattered guesthouses, cafes, and gift shops. At the heart of the town lies the Pfarrkirche St. Sebastian, commonly known as Ramsau Church, the town's most iconic landmark that draws visitors from around the globe. Built in 1512, Ramsau Church showcases late Gothic and Baroque architectural styles. Its shingle-covered roof and onion-shaped bell tower exude a rustic charm typical of southern German villages. The interior is elegantly simple, featuring a main altar at the front and four smaller altars on the sides. The wooden gallery housing the organ is adorned with colorful wooden sculptures of Jesus and the twelve apostles. While many churches in the Alpine region share similar styles, Ramsau Church stands out due to its surrounding natural beauty. The crystal-clear Ramsauer Ache River cheerfully flows beside the church, framed by green hills and undulating peaks. This perfect combination of scenery is breathtakingly beautiful. Throughout history, countless artists have visited Ramsau, inspired to capture its charm on canvas, immortalizing its beauty in masterpieces. 👉 Attractions: 1️ Ramsau Church (Pfarrkirche St. Sebastian): This iconic building is a postcard-perfect spot. Built in 1512, it features Baroque architecture with a rounded roof that adds a touch of German countryside flavor. The stream in front of the church is crystal clear, and crossing the small wooden bridge over the stream leads to the classic photo spot—where the church stands amidst lush greenery, with the snow-capped Alps in the background and the gentle blue stream flowing below the bridge. The serene pastoral landscape and majestic Alps create a picturesque scene reminiscent of an idyllic pastoral painting. 2️ Magic Forest (Zauberwald): Follow the signs along the stream, and you'll soon reach the entrance to the Magic Forest. Formed 3,500–4,000 years ago, the forest lies between Hintersee and Marx Gorge. With few visitors, the trail offers fresh air, birdsong, and the sound of the stream. Walking among ancient moss-covered trees, you might occasionally spot a small wooden cabin, adding a mysterious and tranquil vibe. It's a great spot for connecting with nature and enjoying a light hike. 3️ Hintersee: After traversing the Magic Forest, you'll arrive at Hintersee. The emerald-green lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a mesmerizing scene. A walk around the lake reveals a famous Instagram photo spot—a large rock in the lake with two small trees growing on it.