Golfing on Historic Grounds: A Timeless Tradition at the Werdenfels Country and Golf Club

Anyone searching for the roots of German golf will find a true gem right on the outskirts of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. The Werdenfels Country and Golf Club is one of the ten oldest golf courses in Germany and the fourth-oldest in Bavaria. Its history dates back to 1929, when the course was designed by the legendary architect Dr. Bernhard von Limburger in the former park of the Schwaigwang estate—a pioneer who consistently avoided Anglicisms and always charmingly referred to a dogleg as a “dog’s leg.”

Below the ruins of Werdenfels Castle, golfers can expect a family-friendly atmosphere with genuine hospitality, which is even reflected in a refrigerator with an “honor system” at the first tee.

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The Nine-Hole Course: Precision Along the Leutasch and Views of the Zugsspitz

Despite its modest total length of 2,909 meters from the yellow tees (2,635 meters from the red tees), this charming nine-hole course offers a challenging and sophisticated experience. An old, tall stand of trees, comparatively narrow Fairways, and small, delicate greens demand precise play. Those who play an 18-hole round (5,871 meters from the yellow tees) will experience a surprisingly varied playing experience thanks to clever variations at individual tees—such as on holes 4 and 8, which change their Par value on the second round.

The very first hole is aptly named “Risk and Hope”: This 346-meter-long par-4 runs as a slight dogleg through a narrow tree-lined avenue. Hole 2, a 162-meter Par-3 with a slightly elevated tee, delights with a spectacular view of the Zugspitze massif, before the toughest challenge awaits on hole 3. This 497-meter-long par-5 winds in an S-shape along the rushing Leutasch River and, due to dense forests, demands maximum accuracy off the Tee.

Strategic Finish Below the Castle Ruins

Back on the main course, Hole 7 demands a precise approach shot, before Hole 8 once again boasts an impressive mountain panorama. Here, a meandering stream crosses the landing area, while fairway bunkers and a planting island complicate the tactical lay-up.

The finale is a Par-5 dogleg to the left, up to 461 meters long, that leads back to the clubhouse. On the approach shot, a breathtaking view opens up from the right side of the fairway, taking in the green, the clubhouse, and the Werdenfels castle ruins towering in the background

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Dining at Steakhouse Woods

After the round, the club restaurant “Steakhouse Woods” rewards golfers on its sunny terrace not only with excellent food at fair prices but also with a magnificent panoramic view. The Werdenfels Country and Golf Club combines living tradition, challenging course management, and relaxed Alpine hospitality into an unforgettable experience of nature and sports.