A group of 10 cadets and four adults made the long journey to Bavaria, Germany during May half term for a weeks mountain walking in the Bavarian Alps. The group based themselves in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, a small town with amazing views of the mountains
The weeks walking began with a trek through the stunning Partnachklamm (Partnach Gorge) up to the summit of Eckbauer at 1382m, a great start to the week. This was followed the next day by a drive to the neighbouring town of Fussen to climb up the Tegalberg passing Schloss Neuschwanstein (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang castle) and over the Marienbrucke - pictured above.
The next days walking was to Hoellentalanger hut at the base of the Zugspizte, up through the dramatic Hollentalklamm to a height of 1381m, taking time to enjoy a well deserved ice cream at the top. The final days walking had cadets heading up to summit Wank, when a predicted storm cut the days walking short. Our cadets were not deterred and spent the afternoon swimming instead!
It wasn't all walking, cadets found time to take the cable car to the top of the Zugspitze, the highest mountain in Germany to enjoy the views. Plenty of fun was had on the high ropes course and the Summer rodelbahn (summer toboggan). The group also experienced German food and culture with a meal out in a traditional restaurant.
An amazing time was had by all, here's what our cadets had to say!
L/Cpl Emily Swinton - “First time I’ve left England and what a way to kick it off!”
Cdt Alice Savage - “Honestly one of my favourite experiences as a cadet, it’s been fantastic”
Cdt Hannah Edlin - “Challenging mountains but the people and the views made it worth every step.”
Cdt James Mcardle - “It was a challenging experience but the stunning Bavarian views made it worth it. All of us came together as a family by the end of the trip”
L/Cpl Jamie Brackley - “Climbing the mountains was fun but challenging. The weeks been so much fun!”
Finally a thank you to ACFA, McCarhty & Stone and The Ulysees Trust who all donated money to support the trip.