America’s Best Bavarian Villages – Enjoy the Scenery and the Food!

Hearty bratwurst, delicious beer and charming idyllic architecture are just a few of the factors that the German state of Bavaria is loved around the world. According to a recent survey we conducted, 92% of respondents are ready to travel at this stage of the pandemic, but none of us currently have the option of flying overseas to experience Bavarian culture.

Still, you’re in luck: you can find many Bavarian-style villages and their landmarks all over the United States. We’ve rounded up America’s best Bavarian villages to visit, from the Pacific Northwest to the Appalachian Mountains. The domestic part of your European paradise awaits you.

Leavenworth, WA

Leavenworth, the only German town in Washington, is one of the best reasons to visit the north-central Cascade Mountains. Other reasons – stunning peaks, hiking trails through the lush Wenatchee National Forest, and rafting, swimming, and fishing on the Wenatchee River – can all be enjoyed in town or a short drive north.

Other summer activities include listening to the sound of music at the Ski Hill Theatre or bird watching at Pine River Ranch. Leavenworth’s Fall Beer Festival is definitely worth spending in the cold weather brought on by the changing seasons. Even the cold of winter makes Leavenworth fun, with München Haus and King Ludwig’s offering hot German cuisine, as well as seasonal attractions such as the Nutcracker Museum and other Christmas celebrations.

The magnificent views of the Bekberg Mountains and the slowly flowing river complement the architecture of the Bavarian villages. When browsing holiday homes in Leavenworth, you can choose from delightful cabins close to the city center, or secluded cottages with some of the most beautiful Pacific Northwest scenery as your backyard. Whether you’re planning an unforgettable family Christmas or a couple vacationing in nature, there’s a home for every holiday.

Helen, Georgia

Who would have thought that an Appalachian Alpine village would be so charming? The traditional architecture of Helen is as close to nature and the mountains, which makes many authentic Bavarian villages great. The Blue Ridge Mountains are visible from town, and Unicoi State Park and Chattahoochee National Forest are just a short drive away, offering plenty of hiking opportunities.

When you’re not thrilling the kids by playing with pipes in the Chattahoochee River, you can wow them with the town’s many festivals. These events also go beyond the traditional beer and beer events of Oktoberfest. If you don’t believe us, visit during the Hot Air Balloon Festival in June.

Many of Helen’s holiday homes are tucked away in the woods of the nearby forest. You will find chalets with plenty of space for family gatherings, or cozy homes for a romantic getaway. Some Helen huts are even dog-friendly, as are the hiking trails around the huts – be sure to reward your puppy with some dachshunds from Heidelberg after your workout.

Fredericksburg, TX

You might be surprised to know that one of our favorite Bavarian villages is located in Texas, despite the state’s unique cultural sense. Nestled in the hills of Texas, Fredericksburg puts its German heritage at the center. Its Oktoberfest is fantastic – and not just because of the high-quality beer, delicious food and antique rooftops. The town’s Pioneer Museum Building and Sauer Beckmann Living History Farm introduce visitors to the fascinating life of German immigrants.

Our Fredericksburg vacation rentals include lovely cottages and gorgeous historic homes. Combine your Bavarian cultural experience with a renovated 19th-century farmhouse for a truly eclectic holiday experience. Soak in an antique copper tub or sit back in a rocking chair on the spacious porch and enjoy the warm evening breeze.

Vail, CO

Perhaps it’s not exactly Bavarian style, but Vail’s Swiss-style architecture has captured the hearts of travelers for decades. You’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into the cobbled streets of a Swiss ski village, just as resort designer Pete Sibert intended.

Head to Pepi’s for Austrian-German delicacies like schnitzel and gnocchi, or admire the beautiful architecture lit up at night. The stunning snowy slopes make Vail ideal for a winter getaway, while summer activities such as horse-drawn carriages, horseback riding, hiking, and fishing offer visitors plenty of fun activities.

If you’re planning a winter getaway in Vail, you can book a Swiss-style chalet near the village, some of which can even ski-in/ski-out. Whatever your reason for coming to Vail, you’ll also find expansive estates and gorgeous cottages that offer you the most luxurious holiday experience yet. Some homes even have pools for summer excursions, and vacation rentals with hot tubs are the perfect way to relax on a cool night in Colorado.