Hittenpichl St. Joseph: Bodenmais's Hidden Gem You NEED to See!
Hittenpichl St. Joseph: Bodenmais's Hidden Gem You NEED to See! (Seriously. I'm Still Dreaming About It.) – A Review That's Actually Honest.
Okay, folks, let's talk about Hittenpichl St. Joseph in Bodenmais. Forget those perfectly curated travel blogs, this is coming straight from a real person, who just came back and is already plotting a return. I'm not even gonna try to be objective. This place…wow.
Accessibility: Getting There & Getting Around – Mostly Smooth Sailing (With a Few Caveats!)
First things first. Getting to Bodenmais is relatively easy. Roads are decent. Airport transfer is offered, which is always a godsend. Car park [free of charge] and car park [on-site] is a huge YES! Makes life a breeze unloading that mountain of luggage. Now, for the accessibility piece, it's not perfectly seamless. While they do advertise facilities for disabled guests, I didn't see a dedicated wheelchair accessible room in the bunch. However, I did notice an elevator, which is a massive boon for those of us carrying the weight of the world (or just a heavy suitcase). I didn't notice any dedicated wheelchair accessible area in the pool, which is a real bummer. But there is an exterior corridor. Keep in mind that the charm of a place like this sometimes means navigating slightly less-than-perfect terrain. It's definitely worth checking in advance for specific needs if you're traveling with mobility limitations.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Secure (And Seriously Pampered)
Okay, COVID times, right? Hittenpichl St. Joseph takes this seriously. I mean, seriously. Anti-viral cleaning products everywhere. Daily disinfection in common areas. They have hand sanitizer stations strategically placed (and I'm a germaphobe, so I notice these things). Staff trained in safety protocol. I felt completely at ease – and that's saying a lot. They even offer a room sanitization opt-out available, so you can customize your experience. I definitely appreciated the safe dining setup and sanitized kitchen and tableware items. Plus, my room was pristine. Like, pristine. They follow all the hygiene certification checklist, providing individually-wrapped food options and physical distancing of at least 1 meter.
Rooms: Cozy, Comfortable, and Equipped with Everything You Need (Seriously, Everything!)
Alright, the rooms. This is where Hittenpichl St. Joseph shines. My room? Glorious. Look, some people might call me bougie, but I love the details. And the details here are on point.
- Air conditioning – bless their hearts, it was hot outside!
- Free Wi-Fi – Wi-Fi [free] and Internet access – wireless worked flawlessly. Because, let’s be honest, what’s a vacation without a little scrolling?
- Blackout curtains – slept like the dead!
- Extra long bed – never felt so comfortable.
- Bathrobes and slippers – instant relaxation.
- Coffee/tea maker – morning essential. Complimentary tea was a nice (and appreciated) touch.
- Minibar – a lifesaver for late-night cravings (because, you know, vacation!).
- In-room safe box – peace of mind.
- Satellite/cable channels – a little mindless TV after a long day of…well, relaxing.
- Separate shower/bathtub – perfect for a luxurious soak.
- And get this: Additional toilet! A game changer, especially for a multi-person stay.
I'm telling you, they've thought of everything. Daily housekeeping was impeccable. The wake-up service worked like a charm. And the soundproofing? Phenomenal. I didn’t hear a peep from my neighbours, which is a huge win! The security [24-hour] made me feel safe and sound. Non-smoking rooms are a plus. I especially loved the socket near the bed.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: Foodie Paradise (Seriously, My Stomach is Still Smiling)
This is where Hittenpichl St. Joseph really blew me away. Okay, here’s the honest truth: I might have gained a few pounds. But it was totally worth it.
- Breakfast [buffet] – A huge buffet. Breakfast [buffet] was an absolute feast. Western breakfast was there, and they also had a great Asian breakfast, too. Freshly baked bread, local cheeses, fruit that tasted like actual fruit (a rare treat these days), and eggs cooked to order. I’m not even a huge breakfast person, but I looked forward to it every day.
- Restaurants – Several excellent options. A la carte in restaurant menus offered tons of choice. International cuisine in restaurant and Asian cuisine in restaurant were both fantastic. The desserts in restaurant? Oh. My. God. I'm still drooling just thinking about them.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant – Always available.
- Bar – A great spot for pre-dinner drinks. The bartenders know their stuff.
- Poolside bar – because sometimes you just need a cocktail by the water.
- Room service [24-hour] – perfect for those late-night cravings.
- Snack bar – good for a quick bite.
- Soup in restaurant – the perfect comfort food on a cooler evening.
- Bottle of water – always a good touch.
- Vegetarian restaurant – options existed for everyone.
I was seriously impressed. I had one meal in particular that I'm still raving about. They were running a special on…well, I'll just say it was an exceptional cut of perfectly cooked meat, paired with locally-grown vegetables and a sauce that was heaven. The presentation was gorgeous, the service impeccable, and the atmosphere… romantic. And after that meal, I went to the Poolside bar and enjoyed a cocktail with a view. It was a perfect evening.
Things to Do & Ways to Relax: A Spa Day, a Swim, and Pure Bliss
Now, for the pampering. Hittenpichl St. Joseph gets the whole relaxation thing.
- Swimming pool – The swimming pool [outdoor] was amazing. I spent hours just floating, gazing at the mountains. The pool with view is just stunning.
- Spa/sauna – The sauna was fantastic.
- Steamroom - and the steamroom was a great way to end the day.
- Fitness center – if you have to burn off all that delicious food.
- Massage – Body scrub and body wrap are available! Yes, sign me up for more of these!
- Foot bath – a small detail that goes a long way.
Services and Conveniences: Making Life Easier
Lots of really nice extras, like concierge, currency exchange, and luggage storage. Facilities for disabled guests were available. Plus:
- Air conditioning in public area - was a blessing.
- Laundry service and dry cleaning: Essential for keeping your clothes fresh.
- Doorman. Always a nice touch.
- Gift/souvenir shop – perfect for picking up a little something to remember your trip.
- Meeting/banquet facilities – if you absolutely must work while you're there.
- Car power charging station
- Cash withdrawal
- Contactless check-in/out
- Convenience store
- Daily housekeeping
- Elevator
- Essential condiments
- Food delivery
- Indoor venue for special events
- Ironing service
- Invoice provided
- Meeting stationery
- On-site event hosting
- Outdoor venue for special events
- Projector/LED display
- Safety deposit boxes
- Seminars
- Shrine
- Smoking area
- Terrace
- Wi-Fi for special events
- Xerox/fax in business center
For the Kids: Family-Friendly Fun
While I didn’t travel with kids, I did notice the hotel is really set up well for families. They have babysitting service. Family/child friendly is a huge plus. Kids meal options are available.
Getting Around:
- Airport transfer
- Bicycle parking
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because you're about to get my slightly chaotic, definitely opinionated, and utterly unfiltered take on a trip to Hittenpichl St. Joseph in Bodenmais, Germany. Consider this less an itinerary, and more a "Dear Diary" entry with a vaguely functional structure.
Day 1: Arrival! (And Existential Dread?)
- Morning: The journey begins! (Ugh, travel days. The worst.) Landed at Munich airport, which was surprisingly efficient, unlike my attempts at packing. Seriously, I looked like a refugee, carrying a bag that threatened to burst at any moment. Found the rental car…a surprisingly zippy little hatchback, which I named "The Sausage Rocket." (Don't judge, the beer situation in Bavaria is impressive.)
- Afternoon: The drive to Bodenmais. Rolling hills, picturesque villages, the whole shebang. But here's the thing, I'm a control freak, and GPS is my nemesis. I get lost, not once, BUT TWICE, that's like me! The Sausage Rocket and I finally made it (after some questionable U-turns and a brief, panicked encounter with a very grumpy goat).
- Evening: Arrived at the Hotel Hittenpichl St. Joseph. It's…cute. Very traditional, lots of wood, smells vaguely of fresh pine and grandma's attic. Check-in was a little awkward - my German is abysmal, and the receptionist's English was…well, let's just say we communicated mostly through confused hand gestures. The room? Tiny. But hey, at least it has a balcony overlooking the Bavarian Forest! Time to unpack. After 20 minutes of fighting with my suitcase, I gave up, and then tried to get some dinner. The restaurant was also confusing, but I got something, and I am alive. My first night was, in one word, 'forgettable'.
- Reflection: I'm already questioning all my life choices. Bodenmais is pretty, but it's quiet. Like, "hear a pin drop" quiet. This is going to be an adventure.
Day 2: The Great Hiking Debacle (And Beer-Infused Serenity)
- Morning: Okay, let's get this hiking thing done. Everyone raves about the trails around Bodenmais. I chose a "moderate" path. Famous last words. The map was indecipherable, the signs were in German, and my fitness level is… questionably moderate.
- Afternoon: I got lost. Again. This time I was completely alone, the forest looming around me. The path got ridiculously steep and muddy. Several times I was convinced I was going to either die of a heart attack or get eaten by a badger. I finally limped my way back to the hotel, defeated, covered in mud, and questioning my life choices.
- Evening: Thank god for beer. The local brewery was a lifesaver. After my 'adventure' I went there, I sat and drank, and ate a massive plate of sausages (because Bavaria). The beer was amazing the sausages were great…it was just what I needed.
- Reflection: Hiking? Nah. Beer? Absolutely.
Day 3: The Arber (And My Fear of Heights)
- Morning: Today, conquering the Arber mountain! This is where it starts to get interesting, I thought. Reached the summit via cable car, which, let's be honest, involves a certain level of existential dread. The views were spectacular, but I was too terrified to walk near the edges. I'm a sucker for heights.
- Afternoon: I came prepared with my camera. The summit, the view…just perfect! I even had the presence of mind to appreciate the beauty before the wind threatened to launch me off a cliff.
- Evening: Found a cute little shop, tried some of the local brandy. Good stuff. Then, back to the hotel. I'm starting to get used to this place.
- Reflection: The Arber was worth it… but that cable car… shudders.
Day 4: The Glassblowing (Getting Crafty!)
- Morning: A glassblowing workshop. Finally, something I can control! (Or so I thought). The workshop was warm and the people were welcoming.
- Afternoon: My glassblowing attempts? Less "elegant masterpiece," more "blob of molten glass that vaguely resembles a paperweight." I burnt my finger, and got ash everywhere. But it was fun. I actually created something.
- Evening: Wound down. Enjoyed a quiet dinner, reflecting on the fact that I am not cut out to be a glass artist.
- Reflection: I'm more of a beer drinker than a glassblower.
Day 5: Farewell (Which is actually quite okay)
- Morning: One last breakfast at the hotel. Started my drive home.
- Afternoon: The Sausage Rocket performed admirably.
- Evening: Back in Munich, I spend the night. My trip was done, and I was tired.
- Reflection: Bodenmais was…an experience. A messy, imperfect, sometimes frustrating, ultimately charming experience. I wouldn't trade it for anything. I'll be back…probably. But next time, I'm taking a beer tour instead of trying to hike.
Okay, Hittenpichl St. Joseph… What *is* it, exactly? Don't give me some PR drivel. Tell me *real* talk.
Alright, alright. Hittenpichl St. Joseph? Think of it as Bodenmais's secret, and everyone *kind of* knows about it. It's not like some sprawling cathedral; picture a charming, slightly wonky, maybe-a-little-bit-rustic chapel nestled high up in the woods. It's... beautiful. In a way that punches you in the gut. Okay, maybe not *literally* punches you, but it's got that effect. Feels like you stumbled into a fairytale, but a fairytale written by someone with a good sense of humor and a penchant for detail. The wood carvings? Stunning. The stained glass? Breathtaking, especially when the sun hits it just right. I swear, I once saw a teary-eyed grandma just *staring* at the light through one of the windows for a solid ten minutes. I almost lost it laughing, I felt the same way! It's that type of place, you know? You *feel* something.
Is it hard to get to? I'm not exactly Bear Grylls, you know.
Okay, so I'm not a hardcore hiker either. But even *I* managed it! It's uphill, yes. There are trails, you could take the easier, more winding one. Or, like me the first time, you think you're being all clever and choose the "shortcut" - which, let's just say, involved a few questionable moments where I considered giving up and turning back. Seriously. I thought I was gonna fall; I'm not kidding. Bring water. Wear good shoes. And maybe, just maybe, don't overestimate your fitness level. But the climb, however, is worth it. Because, you know... the view! And the chapel. It's really the chapel you're after. Trust me.
Is there parking? Because I *hate* looking for parking.
Parking? Ugh, the bane of every traveler’s existence. There's a small parking area down below, closer to the start of the trails. It fills up, especially on weekends and holidays. So, get there early! Or be prepared to park a little further out and walk. Honestly, the walk *into* the woods, before even starting the uphill bit, is lovely. So, embrace it. Think of it as a warm-up. Or a punishment! Actually, it’s neither. Just prepare to park. Just saying.
What's the BEST time to visit? I don’t want to be surrounded by a gaggle of screaming children.
Okay, avoiding the screaming children is an art form. Seriously, it's like a ninja skill! The best time? Honestly, weekdays are ideal. The earlier the better. Beat the crowds! The chapel is usually open all day, but double-check the times online, just in case. Morning light, especially early in the fall and winter, is just magical. And if you're lucky, you might get the place practically to yourself. I went once on a Tuesday in October... it was pure bliss. I felt like I had discovered a hidden paradise; it was all mine for a while; it was perfect.
Is there a fee to get in? Do I need to bring money?
Nope! Free! It's a gift to you from... well, whoever built the darn thing in the first place (I’d look it up, but I'm trying to be *human* here, remember?). There might be a donation box, should you feel so inclined. But no entrance fee. Score! Take some coins, though, for that, and maybe a euro or two for a candle. They have them in there, to light and say a prayer, and well, I always feel a weird sense of guilt if I don't. It's weird, but it's me.
What's *inside* the chapel? What can I expect? Don't spoil it, but... give me a hint.
Okay, okay. Inside… It's not some cold, sterile, hushed space. It's warm. Inviting. Probably a bit dusty (which adds to the charm, in my opinion). The carvings I mentioned? Seriously, they're incredible. Intricate, beautiful, and they tell stories. The stained glass lets in this incredible light – that’s the real magic, the play of light and shadow. And then there's the *smell*. Like old wood, maybe a hint of incense... I can't describe it. It's just… right. You're drawn into a world of quiet contemplation. Or, at least, I was... unless those screaming kids show up, but then, you know, it's just chaos. I felt at peace!
I'm interested in the view. What is it like?
The view is the pay-ff, but the REAL pay off is the chapel. The view... well, it's the Bavarian Forest, baby! Rolling hills, trees as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, breathtaking. I mean, literally breathtaking. And the air. Clean, crisp, mountain air. Perfect if you love to clear that head. The best part? The feeling. You're *up there*. Literally above the world. I remember once, the sky was this amazing gold - pure magic.
Anything else I should know? Any Pro-Tips you accidentally learned the hard way?
Oh, so much. Pro-tips, you ask? Okay, here's the gospel, learned through hard knocks:
- Wear comfortable shoes, DAMN IT!.
- Bring a camera. You *will* want to take photos.
- Check the weather. Mountain weather is fickle. It can be sunny one minute and pouring rain the next.
- Resist the urge to climb everything. You *are* in a church.
- Pack a snack and water. You're going to need it. And leave your trash where it belongs: in a trash can.
- Take your time. Don't rush. Soak it in. This is a place to be savored.
- And most importantly: be respectful! This is a place of worship, even if you personally think it’s a total tourist trap.
