Murnau: The Artist's Muse

Located in one of Europe's largest areas of moorland, high in the Bavarian hills, Murnau was a popular 19th-century getaway for city dwellers looking for peace and relaxation away from the demands of the metropolis.

Its appeal continues to this day: With wooded avenues leading from the center of the town to the surrounding idyllic countryside, Murnau offers the nature lover a wide range of outdoor pursuits; from the more energetic cycling opportunity to sedate walks along peaceful lakes to full-on relaxation at the town's spa baths. The town is a haven for those who want to recharge in nature and take advantage of the town's wellness opportunities.

The surroundings of the town give many great vistas and it is no surprise that these panoramas have inspired generations of artists. The fresh alpine air and mysterious marshlands have prompted many a painter to take up the easel and transfer the beauty of the region to canvas.

The seat of Kandinsky's development

The town is most famous these days for its association with painting and art. At the beginning of 20th century, Vassily Kandinsky and his lover, Gabriele Münter, rang in the era of abstract painting while based in Murnau. Today, the town revels in the "blossoming of culture" which took place there over the past 100 years. There are numerous museums which plot the various artistic narratives that Murnau has provided the backdrop to.

The connection with art is not just a glance back to the town's past. Many artists still come to Murnau to capture its unique atmosphere and to follow in the footsteps of some of its most famous visitors. A leisurely wander through the countryside can often lead to an encounter with a painter at work. The town itself has many shops and studios where artwork undertaken in and around the town can be viewed and the artists consulted.

A living, breathing work of art

Even the town buildings themselves can be considered art. In the facades of many of the houses in Murnau, the Munich architect Emmanuel von Seidel has immortalized himself. In the town center, many of the brightly painted houses feature turrets and gables from von Seidel's designs.

Murnau is a living artwork and a town which breathes with creative possibilities. For those wanting to harness this, it is the ideal location for the budding artist's break. For everyone else, it is a destination set in a beautiful landscape worthy of commemoration in oil or watercolor.