Oberammergau – Passion Play, wood carvings and other passions: the small holiday community of Oberammergau with its 5300 inhabitants, situated in the Ammer Valley close to Garmisch-Partenkirchen, is known worldwide. Oberammergau owes its reputation not only to the impressive Passion Plays performed every ten years since 1634 (next in 2010 - pre-register here now) in the imposing theatre with 4800 seats. The beautiful art of wood carving, inherited from generation to generation in traditional family businesses since the Middle Ages, has also contributed to Oberammergau's popularity.

The fantastic countryside with more than 100 kilometres of hiking trails and cycle tracks invites guests to spectacular outdoor activities. Hikers and mountain climbers can explore the Kofel, the local mountain of Oberammergau, or take the chairlift to the Kolben mountain (1270 metres) or the cable lift to the Laber mountain (1684 metres). From the peaks one can enjoy a spectacular view of the fabulous "King Ludwig's Land" with its fairy tale castles Neuschwanstein and Linderhof. Ettal and the famous Wies Church are also not far away – they demonstrate the wealth and colours of the baroque and rococo styles.

On the way back into the valley one can either take a paraglider or a hang-glider or comfortably hike back along the Ammer, the picturesque mountain river, winding its way through unique nature reserves and moors with their rare flora and fauna.

Oberammergau`s WellenBerg, an outdoor and indoor swimming pool set in a stunning Alpine panorama, invites you to relax and refresh yourself with a 50-metre sports and a 90-metre natural outdoor pool, jacuzzis and giant water slides, 60 and 120 metres long, Bavaria´s largest sand arena and lots more. An inline skating rink is situated on the parking area of the Kolben-chairlift.

In wintertime cross country-skiing with more than 50 kilometres of prepared courses near to Oberammergau (skating and classical) and alpine runs promise enjoyment in the snow. Unlike the Laber lifts, the Kolben lifts are especially suitable for families, for both beginners and advanced skiers. The Laber, "Germany's steepest groove", presents freeriders with a tempting challenge with its unprepared slopes and, by the way, offers a uniquely beautiful panorama.

Oberammergau is a treat for the eyes of art and culture lovers. “Lüftlmalerei” i.e. wall paintings can be discovered on many façades on a walk through the town. These old opulent pictures, painted in the so-called fresco technique, date back to the 18th century. The most important wall-painting decorates the Pilatus House, which holds a sensational “Living Workstudio” and craft shops of traditional woodcarvers, glass painters, potters etc. The Oberammergau Museum (Local Heritage Museum) has a unique crib collection and also clearly explains local handicrafts to interested visitors.

There is yet another reason why this village is known all over the world: since 1634 the inhabitants of Oberammergau have kept to their vow, taken after an outbreak of the plague in 1633, that they would perform a Passion Play every ten years in memory of the Passion, death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. Once again in 2010 this unique tradition will attract spectators from all over the world. What makes this performance even more special is the fact that only those are allowed to act on stage who are inhabitants of Oberammergau. The artistic background to the set and costumes is provided by the long and still lively tradition of woodcarving and painting, which has always had an impact on the production.

In the time between the Passion Plays, the Oberammergau Passion Play Theatre opens its doors for guided backstage tours and various cultural events. Grand operas such as CARMEN by Georges Bizet or NABUCCO by Giuseppe Verdi are shown each summer on the world-famous stage, and the performances are very popular indeed.

Traditional and living culture, unique and refreshing nature and a population that keeps both alive – this combination makes Oberammergau a place in Germany that must not be missed.