Der Bergdoktor Today: Exploring the Iconic Filming Locations and 2026 Updates

ELLMAU, 05 March 2026 — As the Alpine spring begins to thaw the peaks of the Wilder Kaiser, fans of the long-running ZDF series “Der Bergdoktor” continue to flock to the Tyrolean highlands. While the television landscape in Germany sees major shifts this week—including the shocking announcement today that the “Spreewaldkrimi” will be discontinued after 20 years—the world of Dr Martin Gruber remains a steadfast pillar of German-language entertainment.

The Enduring Legacy of the Wilder Kaiser

Since the modern reimagining of the series began in 2008, the region surrounding the Wilder Kaiser mountain range has become synonymous with the “Bergdoktor” brand. Unlike the original 1990s series, which used Wildermieming on the Mieminger Plateau as the fictional village of “Sonnenstein,” the current production is firmly rooted in the four “Kaiser” villages: Ellmau, Going, Scheffau, and Söll.

Key Filming Locations to Visit Today

For those visiting the region this March, several iconic sites remain accessible to the public, offering a glimpse into the life of the Gruber family:

• The Bergdoktor Practice (Hinterschnabel Farm): Located in the Faistenbichl district of Ellmau, this historic farmhouse serves as the exterior and interior for Dr Gruber’s medical practice.
• The Gruberhof (Köpfing Farm): Situated on the Söllerberg, this is the residential home of the Gruber family. It offers panoramic views of the Kaiser mountains.
• Gasthof Wilder Kaiser: Located in the village square of Going, this building serves as the exterior for the local inn. Interestingly, the interior shots are filmed at the Gasthof Föhrenhof in Ellmau.
• Going Village Square: The heart of the fictional village, featuring the distinctive Baroque church and the fountain often seen in the series.

Current Production and Fan Events

As of March 2026, the series remains a flagship for ZDF. Following the conclusion of the 17th season, which saw the return of familiar faces like Hans Sigl and Ronja Forcher, the region is preparing for the upcoming “Fan Days.”

Upcoming Fan Opportunities

The local tourism boards traditionally host “Bergdoktor” fan days twice a year. These events allow visitors to meet the actors and participate in guided hikes to filming locations.

• Spring Fan Day: Typically held in May/June.
• Autumn Fan Day: Scheduled for September/October.

The 2026 TV Landscape: Where to Watch

While “Der Bergdoktor” remains a staple, the German TV schedule is currently dominated by reality formats and long-running procedurals. As of today, 05 March 2026, viewers can find “Bergdoktor” content through several channels:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Where is the real “Sonnenstein”?

In the original 1990s series, Wildermieming served as the location for Sonnenstein. However, in the current Hans Sigl era (2008–present), the action takes place primarily in Ellmau and Going.

Can you visit the interior of the Bergdoktor’s house?

The Gruberhof (Köpfing Farm) is a private property but is often open to visitors during the summer months for guided tours. It is recommended to check the local Ellmau tourism office for current opening times as of March 2026.

Is Hans Sigl still playing the Bergdoktor?

Yes, Hans Sigl continues to portray Dr Martin Gruber, a role he has held since the series’ reboot in 2008. He remains the central figure of the production alongside Ronja Forcher, who plays his daughter, Lilli.

How can I see the filming locations without a car?

The region offers a “Bergdoktor” e-bike tour and guided film hikes led by specialists like Peter Moser, which cover locations for “Der Bergdoktor” as well as other local productions like “Der Wilde Kaiser.”