GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany — Land- und Golfclub Werdenfels boasts a rich history dating back to early 1929, when Golfclub Garmisch-Partenkirchen was originally founded. The nine-hole course was designed by renowned golf architect Bernhard von Limburger in the historic park of Gut Schwaigwang and officially opened in 1930.
Limburger, a purist who famously shunned English golf jargon in favor of German terminology, crafted a classic layout that quickly gained regional popularity. Following World War II, the grounds were commandeered by U.S. forces. As membership expanded, the original club eventually relocated to nearby Oberau, but a dedicated group chose to remain at the historic site, founding Land- und Golfclub Werdenfels in 1973. Since July 2014, the course has been fully operating under independent German management.
Reflecting on the venue’s rich heritage, Christian Spanger, golf manager at Land- und Golfclub Werdenfels, said:”The course, with its tall, mature trees and magnificent views both near and far, is one of the ten oldest golf courses in Germany and the fourth oldest in Bavaria. It offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and the majestically rising Wetterstein massif, including the Alpspitze and Zugspitze.”
This historical backdrop is complemented by an unpretentious, family-friendly atmosphere. Golfers are greeted with genuine warmth, highlighted by charming touches such as an honesty-system refreshment fridge near the first tee offering drinks at cost. The nine-hole layout uses yellow and red tee boxes measuring 3,181 yards and 2,882 yards, respectively, while an 18-hole round totals 6,421 yards (yellow) or 5,831 yards (red) thanks to altered tee placements on holes 4 and 8.
“Throughout the round, our golfers are treated to a breathtaking mountain panorama on this flat yet challenging course,” Spanger said. “Located just a short distance from Garmisch-Partenkirchen, nothing stands in the way of a leisurely round of golf — whether by golf cart or on foot.”
Strategic precision is paramount throughout the round. The opening 378-yard par 4, named “Risk and Hope,” sets the tone with narrow, alley-like fairways, natural undulations and well-guarded greens. Subsequent holes challenge players further, such as the picturesque par-3 second hole framing Mount Zugspitze, and the demanding 544-yard par-5 third hole running alongside the Leutasch stream. Dense foliage, strategic fairway bunkers and small, pristine greens require thoughtful shot-making.
After completing a round under the shadow of the historic Werdenfels castle ruins, players can unwind at the club’s Steakhouse Woods. Featuring an expansive sun terrace, high-quality regional steaks and exceptional service, it provides the perfect finish to a day on the links. Land- und Golfclub Werdenfels successfully pairs classic golfing heritage with relaxed hospitality, offering an unforgettable alpine golfing experience.
For those looking for excursions off the course, two world-famous destinations are nearby: In the Bavarian Alps, Oberammergau and Ettal Abbey offer a captivating mixture of tradition, spirituality and Alpine grandeur. Famous worldwide for its historic Passion Play, intricate woodcarvings and so-called “Lüftl” paintings on house facades, the idyllic village of Oberammergau attracts visitors seeking authentic cultural heritage.
Just minutes away stands Ettal Abbey, a breathtaking 14th-century Benedictine monastery renowned for its ornate Baroque architecture, historic brewery and serene atmosphere. Together, these nearby treasures represent the timeless spiritual and cultural heart of southern Bavaria.
