Cheese & Alpine Culture: From Munich to the Allgäu – a gourmet route

From Munich to the Allgäu

For many visitors the Oktoberfest: is the epitome of Bavaria: beer, pretzels, dirndls, and a lively atmosphere. However, those who limit themselves to the Oktoberfest are missing another, quiet and enjoyable side of the Free State: the cheese and alpine culture. Between fragrant mountain meadows, rustic dairies, and Munich delicatessen stands, a culinary universe unfolds that goes far beyond measure. This gourmet route from Munich to the Allgäu combines the colorful Oktoberfest metropolis Munich with the nearby Alps – a slow travel journey that brings together city and nature, beer and cheese, as well as tradition and enjoyment.

Munich: Between beer, pretzels and cheese platters

The best starting point is right in the heart of the city: the Viktualienmarkt. Even early in the morning, the smell of freshly baked bread, smoked goods, and rich mountain cheese fills the air. Strolling among the colorful market stalls quickly reveals that cheese isn't just a side dish here, but a part of Bavarian identity.

A visit to Feinkost Käfer or to the Tölzer Kasladen is especially worthwhile: hand-picked raw milk cheeses from the Alps are perfect with a freshly tapped Oktoberfest beer. And for the braver: try a real beer and cheese pairing – spicy Romadur with a pale wheat beer or robust mountain cheese with a dark Doppelbock.

Ammersee: Peace after the hustle and bustle

Just under an hour from Munich lies Lake Ammersee, a quiet contrast to the lively Oktoberfest. Here, sailboats are reflected in the water, while farmers sell their produce directly from their farms. In small inns and shops like the Brauhaus Herrsching* (advertisement) or the Andechs farm shop there is fresh cheese, yogurt and butter – perfect for a picnic on the lakeshore.

If you take half a day, you'll find exactly what slow travelers are looking for: relaxation, nature, and honest products.

Andechs Monastery: Where beer and cheese are brothers

On the Holy Mountain stands the Andechs Monastery, a pilgrimage destination – and a paradise for connoisseurs. The Benedictine monastery is world-famous for its beer, but the Monastery restaurant serves equally hearty cheese platters. On the terrace, overlooking Lake Ammersee, the cheese tastes particularly intense—perhaps because it's enjoyed here with a freshly tapped monastery beer.

If you like, you can combine your visit with a walk through the woods or a short pilgrimage route.

Allgäu: Where cheese is at home

The Allgäu region is the heart of Bavarian cheese culture. Here, cows graze on lush mountain meadows, and the famous Allgäu mountain cheese is produced in the dairies. Visitors can, for example, look over the shoulders of the cheesemakers at Lehern Dairy in Hopferau, or visit the Wiggensbach Adventure Cheese Dairy* (Advertisement) to try it out themselves.

In addition to classics like mountain cheese and Romadur, there are many small farm shops selling alpine butter, goat cheese, and herbal specialties directly from the producers. A cheese hike combines culinary delights with magnificent views—a perfect blend of activity and enjoyment.

Cattle Drive & Cheese Festivals: Bavaria in Colour

Those who travel in September will experience one of the most beautiful traditions: the cattle drive. Festively decorated cows, carrying bells and flowers, trudge through the villages back down to the valley—a feast for the eyes and ears. There are also markets where farmers sell cheese, butter, and other alpine products. The Viehscheid (cattle drive) in Oberstdorf, where entire herds roam through the village, is particularly impressive.

Back in Munich: Souvenirs with taste

After so many impressions, a return stroll through Munich is worthwhile. You can take home the best cheeses as souvenirs from Viktualienmarkt. or in the Tölzer Kasladen – vacuum-packed for your flight home. International guests will also find a paradise of cheese specialties in the Schrannenhalle at Eataly* (advertisement).

This is how our tour to savor comes to an end: from the hustle and bustle of the Oktoberfest, via quiet lakes and colorful cattle drives, back to the city – with the taste of the mountains in your luggage.

Let your trip from Munich to the Allgäu end comfortably with this tour

Bavaria tastes good on this tour from Munich to Allgäu

Bavaria is beer and pretzels – but also butter, mountain cheese and snacks. Anyone who visits the Oktoberfest, should take the time to discover this gourmet route from Munich to the Allgäu. It's a journey for the senses: the ringing of cowbells, the scent of freshly mown meadows, the taste of strong cheese, and the view of the Alps in the evening light.

This turns your Oktoberfest trip into a slow-travel experience that will stay in your memory – and on your tongue.

Discover more destinations in Bavaria and Tyrol in our video

Questions and answers about this gourmet route from Munich to the Allgäu

Where is the best place to try Bavarian cheese in Munich?

At the Viktualienmarkt, there are numerous stalls with cheese platters, and it is also worth visiting the Tölzer Kasladen, where you can find Alpine specialties.

Is a trip from Munich to the Allgäu really worth it?

Yes, because not only can you experience picturesque landscapes there, but you can also taste real mountain cheese in dairies and watch the cheesemakers at work.

When is the best time to experience a cattle drive?

The cattle drive traditionally takes place in September, and that is when farmers festively decorate their cows before returning to the valley together.

Which cheeses should you definitely try when traveling from Munich to the Allgäu?

Particularly recommended are the robust Allgäu mountain cheese, the spicy Romadur and the unique Weißlacker, all of which are firmly rooted in the region.

How can you combine a visit to Oktoberfest with savoring cheese?

You can experience the Oktoberfest in the morning and then take a trip to Lake Ammersee or Andechs Monastery, where beer and cheese go wonderfully together.

Source: Munich to Allgäu: our own on-site research. Our opinions remain, as always, our own.

Text from Munich to Allgäu: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO