Klosterbrauerei Ettal (Ettal Abbey Brewery) Guide
Ettal Abbey Brewery: Where Centuries of Tradition Meet Bavarian Brews Guide
Welcome to the Klosterbrauerei Ettal, a working Benedictine monastery and brewery nestled in the picturesque Bavarian Alps. More than just a brewery, it's a living testament to centuries of monastic tradition, where the art of brewing has been perfected over generations. Prepare to immerse yourself in the rich history, sample exceptional beers, and experience the unique atmosphere of this spiritual and artisanal haven. Founded in 1330 by Emperor Ludwig the Bavarian, Ettal Abbey has weathered wars, plagues, and secularization, yet the Benedictine monks have persevered, maintaining their commitment to prayer, work, and hospitality. The brewery, an integral part of the abbey's self-sufficiency, has evolved over the centuries, blending traditional brewing methods with modern technology. Today, it produces a range of award-winning beers, from classic lagers to robust dark ales, all brewed with the purest mountain water and the finest ingredients. A visit to Klosterbrauerei Ettal offers a variety of experiences. Take a guided tour of the brewery to learn about the brewing process and the history of the abbey. Sample the different beers in the Klostergasthof (abbey tavern), a traditional Bavarian restaurant serving hearty regional cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to purchase some of the abbey's products, including beer, liqueurs, cheese, and honey, in the Klosterladen (abbey shop). The Klostergasthof offers traditional Bavarian dishes like Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle), Weißwurst (white sausage), and pretzels, perfectly complementing the abbey's beers.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Ettal Abbey Brewery is by bus. From Oberammergau, take bus line 9606 towards Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Get off at the 'Ettal, Kloster' stop, which is directly in front of the abbey. From Garmisch-Partenkirchen, take the same bus line 9606 towards Oberammergau and get off at the same stop.