Discover your perfect stay in Forstern.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Forstern
Find the perfect place to stay in Forstern


Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Forstern
In Forstern, the top choice for families is Hotel Alpenhof, a charming family-run lodge nestled at the foot of the Alps. It features spacious family rooms, a children's play area, and direct access to forest trails. The hotel’s Alpine timber design blends rustic charm with modern comfort, while its restaurant serves authentic Bavarian dishes like sauerkraut pork knuckle and black bread pudding. Guests can enjoy nearby activities such as lake swimming at Steinbergsee, forest spas, and interactive farm experiences—perfect for creating lasting memories.
The town center of Forstern offers the ideal location for lodging, combining convenience and tranquility. Located just steps from St. Mary's Church and the Town Hall Square, it’s surrounded by traditional beer halls and artisan shops. The area is quiet yet well-connected, with a 10-minute walk to hiking trails and scenic viewpoints. Its low tourist density ensures peaceful evenings, while local festivals and evening lights add a warm, authentic Bavarian atmosphere.
Immerse yourself in Bavarian folk traditions during the annual Bavarian Folk Festival, featuring traditional costume parades, folk music, and craft markets. Try on Dirndls and Lederhosen to join in dance performances. Local taverns host beer tasting nights paired with fresh sausages and sauerkraut. Don’t miss the chance to book a workshop at the rural pottery studio, where you can create your own handcrafted souvenirs using age-old techniques.
Near Forstern, the stunning Steinbergsee Lake offers crystal-clear waters perfect for boating, fishing, or cycling along its shores. The Schwarzwaldweg Trail (8 km) winds through dense forests with interpretive signs about native wildlife—ideal for spotting deer and squirrels. In autumn, the trail transforms into a golden pathway, making it a favorite for photographers. Visit early morning to enjoy serene views without crowds.
AlpenSpa Hotel Fuerstenfeld is the only hotel in Forstern offering a natural thermal spa. Its indoor pool uses alpine spring water heated by geothermal energy, maintained at a soothing 38°C with mineral-rich properties. The facility includes saunas, steam rooms, and aromatherapy treatments. All rooms feature panoramic windows overlooking the mountains. Evening spa sessions with star projection systems create a dreamlike ambiance—ideal for relaxation under the stars.
Savor authentic Bavarian cuisine in Forstern: try black bread with smoked ham (Schwarzbrot mit Rauchschinken) and potato pancakes with yogurt sauce (Kartoffelpuffer mit Joghurtsoße). Street vendors sell almond pastries (Mandelkuchen) and honey walnut croissants (Honig-Nuss-Brot). On weekends, visit the Market Square Farmers’ Market for fresh cheese, homemade jam, and artisanal sausages. Hofgarten Gasthaus is renowned for its slow-cooked beef stew with potatoes—prepared using a century-old recipe with rich, aromatic flavors.
From Munich Hauptbahnhof (München Hbf), take a Regionalbahn train to Forstern Station, approximately 1 hour with departures every hour. Alternatively, book a private transfer—about 75 minutes via A92 Highway, exiting at Fuerstenfeldbruck, then following B17 Road into town. If driving, use GPS to navigate directly to the Town Center Square. Book in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.
Couples can enjoy breathtaking views at the Lagunenhügel Viewpoint, where sunsets paint the Alpine peaks in gold. Book a private forest cabin dinner with a chef-prepared Bavarian feast and local Riesling wine under candlelight. The church bell tower features a love lock wall—attach your engraved lock for a lasting symbol of devotion. For a unique experience, join a nighttime forest lantern walk, gliding through shadowy woods with soft light and the sound of nature, evoking fairy-tale magic.
Winter in Forstern transforms the town into a snowy paradise. The Steinbergsee Lake becomes a winter wonderland, hosting ice skating, ice fishing, and ice sculpture exhibitions. The Christmas Market (Weihnachtsmarkt) at the town square buzzes with handmade gingerbread, mulled wine, and woolen scarves, accompanied by classic German carols. Many hotels offer winter wellness packages including fireplace suites, hot chocolate baskets, and ski gear rentals. Guided snowshoe hikes through alpine meadows provide safe, unforgettable adventures.
Top photo locations in Forstern include the St. Mary’s Church spire, whose Gothic silhouette stands out against misty mornings; the Colorful Fachwerk Street, lined with painted half-timbered houses full of Nordic charm; and the Laguneinsel Leuchtturm (Lake Island Lighthouse), perfectly mirrored in the still waters. Visit between 6:30–8:00 AM for soft lighting and fewer crowds. Drone enthusiasts can capture sweeping views of the Schwarzwaldweg Trail winding through mountain ridges and forest canopies.
Forstern is a charming small town in Bavaria, Germany, known for its tranquil rural landscapes and rich Bavarian culture. With vast meadows, forests, and traditional farmhouses, it is an ideal destination for those seeking peace away from urban hustle. The town's deep cultural heritage is reflected in the locals' traditional way of life, with festivals like Oktoberfest and local markets showcasing Bavarian hospitality.
In Forstern, visitors can explore beautiful natural scenery, such as nearby forests and lakes, perfect for hiking and cycling. The St. Martin Church is a landmark, showcasing Bavarian religious culture. Additionally, local farms and breweries are worth a visit to experience traditional brewing and taste authentic Bavarian beer.
Forstern's cuisine features traditional Bavarian dishes. Recommended are Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Weißwurst (white sausage), and Brezel (pretzel). Local beer halls and pubs serve these classics paired with freshly brewed beer for a unique flavor.
Public transport in Forstern is limited; driving is recommended for exploring nearby attractions. Buses connect the town to neighboring areas but run infrequently. The train station is close to the town center, with regional trains to cities like Munich. Check schedules in advance for smoother travel.
The best time to visit is from May to September, with pleasant weather for outdoor activities. Winter is cold but festive, especially during Christmas markets.
The primary language in Forstern is German, though English is understood in tourist areas. The town has good network coverage, with free Wi-Fi in many restaurants and hotels. Cash is widely used, though some places accept cards. The emergency number is 112; the nearest hospital is in a nearby town. Travel insurance is recommended for emergencies.