Ruhpolding, Spa town in Traunstein district, Germany.
Ruhpolding is a spa town in Traunstein district, Bavaria, sitting at 799 meters between forested slopes and mountain ridges. From the town center, valleys open to the north and east, while peaks over 1800 meters shape the landscape to the south.
The town was founded in the 13th century as an Augustinian priory and grew around the monastery church. At the end of the 19th century, doctors began sending guests to the mountains for rest, and tourism developed into the main source of income.
The name comes from Old Bavarian and means settlement at the quiet place, which still fits the location surrounded by forests. On the village square, wooden balconies with flower boxes stand above ground-floor shops, and on weekends locals in traditional dress walk to church.
Hiking trails are well signposted in summer and range from easy valley routes to challenging mountain tours, while in winter many slopes for beginners and advanced skiers open. The railway station is central and connects the area with larger cities such as Munich and Salzburg.
The Chiemgau Arena is an international biathlon competition venue and offers the chance to watch professional athletes training all year round. In summer, the athletes roll through the course on roller skis while the shooting ranges remain open.
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