Best mountain peaks around Hitzhofen are found within the Altmühl Valley Nature Park, a region in Bavaria, Germany. The landscape is characterized by hills and valleys, offering elevated areas and viewpoints rather than traditional alpine peaks. These locations provide expansive views and diverse hiking experiences. The area is popular for its scenic trails and natural features.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
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When coming up the wide path, you encounter a prohibition sign including a provisional "barrier" (see picture). Unfortunately, I did not find a summit book, as reported here.
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And there is a summit book like on a "real" mountain.
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Not only is there a great view here, but there is also a large geocache as a reward: https://coord.info/GC3RBGT
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The so-called Eichstätter Matterhorn is probably the highest slag heap in Eichstätt and is clearly visible as it is the only slag heap with a summit cross around Eichstätt. The B Schütt mountain, whose summit is at 574 meters, is probably one of the most striking slag heaps in the Jura. The Matterhorn reflects an important part of Eichstätter's mining and quarrying history. It was initially piled up without permission as part of the mining of limestone on the Jura. Approval was finally granted retrospectively in the early 2000s. From the summit of the Eichstätter "Matterhorn" you can see the Zugspitze massif when the weather is clear.
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In the old quarry there are many descents and small trails for mountain biking.
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The summit cross on the Schellenberg can be easily reached via the demanding Keltensteig near Enkering. The fantastic view rewards the climb, there is also some seating.
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From the Schellenberg you have a very nice view of the Anlautertal.
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The parish chronicle contains the following entry about the origins of the Schellenberg Cross: "On October 25, 1964, the Most Reverend Vicar General Josef Heindl consecrated the mountain cross for the fallen and missing from both world wars. 15 years previously, a wooden cross had been erected by the youth in memory of the fallen. As it had become rotten, it had to be removed. The new cross is made of concrete and covered with Jura slabs. To ensure that the cross remains visible at night, a power line was laid to the Wachtfelsen on the initiative of Pastor Adalbert Regner - and so the cross shines all the way to the motorway at night." From this point on, a cross stands guard at the Wachtfelsen, the lookout point where watch has been kept since ancient times. Naturally protected high places such as the Schellenberg were used in prehistoric times to build fortified settlements. The first farmers in the area probably settled on the mountain plateau as early as 5000 BC. From here and especially from the Wachtfelsen, there was a wide view of the valleys of Schwarzach, Anlauter and Altmühl. Life on the Schellenberg offered protection to the residents and enabled control of trade routes in the valley. Source: https://www.donaukurier.de/archiv/runderneuerung-fuer-gipfelkreuz-5792959
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The landscape around Hitzhofen, part of the Altmühl Valley Nature Park, is characterized by hills and valleys rather than towering alpine peaks. You'll find numerous elevated areas and viewpoints that offer expansive views and diverse hiking experiences. These include prominent hills, historical sites on elevated spurs, and natural monuments.
Among the most notable viewpoints is the Summit cross on the Schellenberg, an exposed mountain spur offering magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Another popular spot is the Viewpoint with summit cross overlooking Grösdorf, Kipfenberg, and the Altmühl Valley, which provides excellent vistas with seating. You can also find a somewhat hidden Viewpoint with summit cross in Naturpark Altmühltal offering fantastic views towards Kipfenberg and the Altmühl valley.
Yes, the region combines natural beauty with historical significance. The Summit cross on the Schellenberg is not only a viewpoint but also a historical site, with settlement traces dating back over 7,000 years. The Bschütt-Berg (Eichstätt Matterhorn), a striking slag heap with a summit cross, reflects Eichstätt's mining and quarrying history.
The Reisberg Summit is a prominent elevated area that rises about 100 meters from the Danube plain. It features beautiful forest paths and is part of a series of panoramic mountains bordering the Jura range. The old quarry near Reisberg also offers descents and small trails popular for mountain biking.
The area around Hitzhofen offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy paths suitable for all fitness levels to more moderate trails requiring good basic fitness and sure-footedness. Trails often traverse hills and valleys, providing magnificent views and opportunities to explore natural monuments and historical sites. For example, the demanding Keltensteig leads to the Schellenberg.
Yes, many trails in the Altmühl Valley Nature Park are suitable for families. While some viewpoints might require a little surefootedness, there are numerous easy paths that allow families to enjoy the undulating topography and expansive vistas. Look for trails marked as easy or moderate on komoot to find suitable options.
Beyond hiking, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Waldlaufberg, Hitzhofen loop' or the 'Reisberg Summit loop'. For cyclists, there are extensive road cycling routes and gravel biking options, including routes like 'Medieval Stone Bridge at Pfünz – View of Willibaldsburg loop'. You can explore more options on the Running Trails around Hitzhofen, Road Cycling Routes around Hitzhofen, and Gravel biking around Hitzhofen guide pages.
The Altmühl Valley Nature Park is beautiful throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant natural colors. Summer is also popular, though trails can be busier. Even in winter, with appropriate gear, you can enjoy serene, snow-dusted landscapes and clear views.
Visitors consistently praise the magnificent panoramic views, especially from spots like the Schellenberg and the viewpoints overlooking the Altmühl Valley. The combination of natural beauty, historical elements, and well-maintained hiking paths makes for a rewarding experience. Many appreciate the peaceful forest paths and the opportunity to discover hidden gems like the 'mini' summit cross in the rock.
Some viewpoints, like the Viewpoint with summit cross in Naturpark Altmühltal, can be a little hidden and may require a bit of surefootedness. It's always a good idea to check the route details and tips on komoot for specific directions and any warnings about terrain. Many viewpoints are accessible directly from nearby refreshment stops or parking areas.
While Hitzhofen itself is a smaller community, the surrounding Altmühl Valley region offers various options for refreshments and accommodation. Many hiking routes pass by or are close to villages where you can find local inns, cafes, or guesthouses. For example, some viewpoints are within a 15-minute walk of refreshment stops like 'to the blue pike'.


See even more amazing summits around Hitzhofen with these guides: