From Maypoles to Monasteries: Dreaming of Fresh Snow & Cold Beer
Maypole in Bavaria
April showers don’t just bring May flowers in Bavaria. When spring arrives, the villages come alive. In early May, communities gather to raise the Maibaum, a brightly decorated maypole that celebrates the arrival of spring, tradition and togetherness. Join the festivities by grabbing a tall glass of the region's iconic Weissbier and dancing to local bands. Dirndls and lederhosen are not required, but highly encouraged.
The May celebrations come to an end as spring turns to summer, but the spirit of spring keeps blossoming, even when the weather turns as frosty as your beer mug. Snow-covered trails and a chill in the air make for the perfect time to visit the cozy Alpine towns, made even more picturesque while gliding along the ski trails.
Starting in Italy, the Marcialonga, Seefeld & König Ludwig Lauf Trip invites you to watch (or join) the Marcialonga Story, a vintage event where skiers wear wood skis and wool outfits.
Marcialonga Story Vintage Ski Event
Also in the Dolomites, spend a day skiing in Passo Lavazé, marveling at the Dolomite spires and enjoying a lunch at a traditional mountain hut, where the menu highlights dishes ranging from Spaghetti Bolognese to Wiener Schnitzel – a reflection South Tyrolean history and geography, straddling Italy and Austria.
Skiing in Passo Lavazé
Ready for more Tyrolean cuisine? Head north through the Brenner Pass to Seefeld, home to 200+ km of trails, a popular Austrian winter destination and the birthplace of skate skiing. Wrap up your time in Austria by cruising through the scenic Leutasch valley and trying a round of Eisstockschiessen, Austria’s version of curling. Best played with a warm mug of mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Austrian curling during a snowstorrm in Seefeld
Finish the trip in Germany by skiing – or spectating – the 50 km or 25 km König Ludwig Lauf Worldloppet event, in either skate or classic style. The König Ludwig Lauf commemorates the Bavarian King Ludwig, whose Neuschwanstein Castle inspired Walt Disney’s iconic castle.
The village of Oberammergau hosts the ski event. The race starts across from the iconic Ettal Monastery, which also houses a brewery – a nod to Bavaria’s deep brewing roots, a heritage that dates back to the monks who first perfected lager bier as a form of “liquid bread” during Lent. The popular Worldloppet event finishes in the village of Oberammergau, where beer flows from the tap and is free for all participants.
Finishing the König Ludwig Lauf in Bavaria, ready for a beer
So, while the winter chill might be a few months away, grab a pint of Weissbier and imagine you're sipping it with new friends, tired legs and can’t-believe-it mountain views. Winter is brewing!
To celebrate May Day, Lumi is offering a $300/person discount on the 2026 Marcialonga, Seefeld & König Ludwig Lauf trip. Reach out by Saturday, May 31 to receive a detailed trip itinerary and secure your spot!
See you on the trail,
Garrott Kuzzy
garrott@lumiexperiences.com