Joy rafting down the Isar

The art to combine pleasure and business

True bavarians in Lederhosen wearing "goatee beard" decorated felt hats have always mastered the art to turn something useful into a pleasure and entertainment. More than 200 years ago a few lumberjacks decided to convert their daily business of hauling logs down the slowly flowing Isar to the mills in Munich. A few logs were tied together, 3 or 4 benches attached, a keg of beer brought along and the legendary rafting parties came alive.

Down the river we go !

Clubs and companies usualy organize coworker outings and reserve the rafts all through the season. Up to 60 people in an adventurous mood embark on this 5 to 6 hour journey down the mostly quietly flowing Isar but also race down wooden water covered slides that bypass dams. From May to September rafts slide through the Isarauen signaling their arrival miles away with loud "umtata" band music and loud singing. Completely equipped with 50 gallons of beer, 100 glass mugs, a four piece dixie orchetra and a makeshift restroom (four steel poles and a plastic cover) this multi-ton vessel is steered by two strong fellows. It is left to your imagination what happens toward the end of this wild trip when all onboard has been consumed and the sun has heated body and soul.

A few hints (so you won't end up in the river)

Instead of going out to buy a traditional costume or "Dirndl" (bavarian chest accentuating dress) grab some baseball shorts and caps.
Be prepared to face man's primeval functions. After consuming quarts of golden brew a certain pressure will ask you for relief. You'll be standing and aiming at the logs, no luxury but a few surprises.
Give the guys from the orchestra a break when you ask them to play a rapsody in blue. They'll prefer happy dixie and instrumentals in general.
Unfortunately it's time to talk money. You will have to fork out around DM 180 to 230 per person, good news is that the bus ride to Wolfratshausen, food, beer and music are included. Since popularity for this type of transportation is steadily increasing, consider posting your reservations almost a year in advance.
Should you prefer watching parts of the show from a peaceful and comfortable spot, choose a beergarden such as the Brückenwirt or Hinterbrühl, both strategically located along the route.