A Bit of Bavaria | Leavenworth, Washington
Your Home & Lifestyle Magazine
There’s a bit of Bavaria in the Cascade Mountains, tucked away in Leavenworth, Washington. Brimming with Germany’s renowned gemütlichkeit (think: pleasant coziness and warmth), it’s during the winter months that this alpine retreat truly shines.
Getting There.
Easily accessible for Canadian and American visitors, Leavenworth is just a few hours of driving from both Vancouver and Seattle. Fly into nearby Pangborn Memorial Airport (EAT) or catch one of the trains running through town twice daily.
Where to Stay.
The Bavarian-styled Enzian Inn charms visitors with its hand-carved furnishings and evening piano concerts, while smaller options like the Blackbird Lodge offer private balconies and in-room breakfasts. For a more luxurious experience, the Posthotel is an adults-only spa retreat overlooking the Wenatchee River.
Escape the hustle and bustle with one of many quaint cabins and cozy resorts in the surrounding area, from cottages completely off the grid to ski lodges with full amenities. Turn to a local vacation rental company like Love Leavenworth for best bets.
Booking last minute? Check the Leavenworth/Pine Village KOA for available cabins or stay in nearby Wenatchee or Cashmere. (Tip: Catch a local shuttle to avoid parking during busy season.)
What to Do.
Family-friendly outdoor adventures like sledding and tubing are a mere mile away from the central village at Leavenworth Winter Sports Club’s Ski Hill. Hit the slopes at Stevens Pass and Mission Ridge Ski and Board Resort for speedier adventures, or trek one of the designated Nordic skiing and snowshoeing trails at Lake Wenatchee State Park for unparalleled views. (Tip: The State Park requires a Sno-Park recreation pass December 1 through March 31.)
Back in town, wander the Bavarian-styled streets for charming shops, eateries, and bargartens. Visit during one of the town’s three popular winter festivals to catch more live music and special activities. Leavenworth transforms into a European Christmas market from November 29 through December 24, during its Christmastown festival. Winter Karneval runs every weekend in January and features live ice carvings and fireworks. The town’s famous light display stays up through February, with a heartfelt twist during its Love from Leavenworth celebrations. After a day of exploring (don’t forget quirky local favorites like the Nutcracker Museum), unwind with a stein and some traditional German fare at Andreas Keller or München Haus or get your Pacific Northwest fix at award-winning Icicle Brewing Company.
festive favorites.
Visiting Leavenworth around the holidays? Add these seasonal must-dos to your itinerary.
Let It Glow. It’s called the Village of Lights for a reason! Time your visit to coincide with one of Leavenworth’s three popular winter festivals to catch the full splendor of the town’s light display. (Tip: The town no longer hosts a countdown to illumination; the lights stay on every night from US Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day.)
(Not So) Silent Nights. Get in the holiday spirit with free, live music at the Front Street Park Gazebo or catch some Christmas carols with Bavarian flair at one of the Village Voices Christmas concerts. During the Christmastown festival, you’ll spot these traditional carolers roaming downtown.
Dashing through the Snow. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a hands-on experience for the whole family, with accessible and low-sensory options available. For the quintessential holiday experience, book a sleigh ride with Leavenworth Sleigh Rides, Icicle Outfitters & Guides, or Eagle Creek Ranch. (Tip: Look to social media for special discounts and pricing.)
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YHL/ Written by Victoria Hittner
Photography provided by Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce.