In early June 2025, our 21st Beetle meet took us to a region many of us had not yet explored: the Bavarian Forest near Passau. Excitement and anticipation were high – and it quickly became clear that the journey was well worth it.
From the very beginning, the programme offered a perfect blend of nature, culture and good company. Some participants arrived early to settle in before the official start, which began with a visit to the Bavarian Forest Open-Air Museum. Surrounded by historic farmhouses, workshops and traditional buildings, we stepped back in time before rounding off the day with hearty regional dishes. A short stop at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the wooded hills provided the perfect finishing touch.
Friday saw our first major drive after breakfast. Our destination was the impressive treetop walk in Neuschönau, where we strolled at canopy level and enjoyed sweeping views across the forest – a real highlight. From there, we continued along the scenic National Park road to Zwiesel, where we gained fascinating insights into the craft of glassblowing at a local glassworks.
The afternoon brought a special moment: our first shared drive through the Bohemian Forest in the Czech Republic. Quiet roads, varied scenery and warm summer weather made this an unforgettable part of the tour – complete with a relaxed coffee stop in Srní.
Saturday was dedicated to Passau, the so-called “City of Three Rivers”. With special permission, our Beetles were parked right in the heart of the old town. A guided tour led us through its charming streets and historic buildings, followed by a boat trip to see where the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet. Another highlight was the breathtaking view from the Veste Oberhaus fortress – although the weather was a little less cooperative at times.
On Sunday, we headed towards the Großer Arber. Despite occasional rain, the drive through the forest was thoroughly enjoyable. After a walk around Lake Arber, we took the cable car up to the Eisensteiner Hut, where we paused for coffee and cake. Many participants chose to return via the Bohemian Forest once more, making the most of the scenic route.
The meeting concluded with a lively evening, complete with certificates, small surprises and plenty of shared memories to take home.
In summary: a wonderfully varied Beetle meet filled with stunning landscapes, fascinating experiences and great companionship – the Bavarian Forest truly left a lasting impression.
