Exclusive for Mail on Sunday readers: A once-in-a-decade chance to see Bavaria and its Passion Play

In 1633, as an outbreak of the Black Death ravaged Germany, the inhabitants of Oberammergau, a small village in southern Bavaria, made an extraordinary promise. If God spared them, they vowed, they would re-enact the final days of Jesus’s life every ten years in gratitude.

Miraculously, the villagers were spared – and almost 400 years later, the people of Oberammergau are still true to their word.

Now you can experience this rare and moving spectacle on our exclusive five-night trip, which takes in both the Passion Play and the beautiful surrounding area, including the magical castles and palaces built by ‘mad’ King Ludwig II in the 19th Century. 

Astonishing spectacle: Visit the breathtaking Neuschwanstein Castle on an exclusive five-night trip around Bavaria 

One of Britain’s most insightful and entertaining cultural broadcasters, Andrew Graham-Dixon, will join you during your trip, giving his own expert insights. 

Andrew says: ‘I’m really looking forward to it – especially the visit to Neuschwanstein, the world’s most spectacular fairytale castle.’

Tickets and good accommodation in the Oberammergau area are very limited around the time of the Passion Play, so early booking is highly recommended. 

A scene from the famous Passion Play, which is staged every ten years in Bavaria 

OUR SPECIAL GUEST

You’ll be joined by art critic Andrew Graham-Dixon

A brilliant and engaging art critic, Andrew Graham-Dixon is one of Britain’s leading cultural commentators. He has presented numerous TV programmes, including the BBC’s Sicily Unpacked and The Art Of Germany. He is also the author of several acclaimed art history books, including Renaissance, Michelangelo And The Sistine Chapel and his recent bestseller, Caravaggio: A Life Sacred And Profane.

REASONS TO BOOK

The once-in-a-decade Passion Play: The unique Oberammergau production draws visitors from around the world. 

It is a remarkable undertaking, involving half the town’s residents as they retell the story of Christ from His entry into Jerusalem to the Resurrection.

Meet Andrew Graham-Dixon: The art historian and broadcaster will join you on this trip, appearing at Neuschwanstein Castle.

He will take part in a Q&A session and talk about the castle, which he described in his brilliant BBC series The Art Of Germany as one of the most spectacular German monuments. 

You will find out more about King Ludwig II, who effectively bankrupted Bavaria to construct his astonishing Romantic buildings.

Bavarian castles: As well as Neuschwanstein, which featured in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, you will see Herrenchiemsee Palace, inspired by King Ludwig’s visit to the Palace of Versailles. 

This is no less elaborate: 35 seamstresses are said to have spent seven years sewing the cover for the royal bed. 

The palace’s gilded Hall of Mirrors, best seen by candlelight, is arguably even more impressive than the Versailles original.

Unforgettable experience: The Oberammergau Passion Play is a truly memorable travel experience. 

If you miss this trip, you will have to wait until 2030 for your next opportunity.