Attractions and Places To See in Oberallgäu - Top 20

Oberallgäu is rich in natural spectacles. You can explore the dramatic Breitach Gorge, one of Central Europe's deepest rocky gorges, or the scenic Starzlach Gorge. Don't miss the powerful Buchenegger Waterfalls or the enchanting Hinanger Waterfall, especially beautiful in winter with its ice formations. For serene lakes, visit Freibergsee or the idyllic Lower Gaisalp Lake. Mountain enthusiasts will appreciate the panoramic views from Fellhorn Summit or Grünten Summit.

Yes, Oberallgäu offers several cultural and historical insights. You can visit the castle ruins of Alttrauchburg, Sulzberg, and Laubenbergerstein for a glimpse into medieval life. The AlpenStadtMuseum Sonthofen provides a modern exhibition on the region's history, while the Allgäu Mountain Farmers Museum in Immenstadt vividly documents the life of mountain farmers. Kempten, the oldest town in Allgäu, features the impressive St. Lorenz Basilica and a Renaissance-style Town Hall. The abandoned mountain farming village of Gerstruben also offers a unique historical experience.

The region is perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous options for hiking, biking, and mountaineering. For specific routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes in Oberallgäu or discover Running Trails in Oberallgäu. There are also many easy hiking trails suitable for all levels, such as the Breitachklamm Loop Trail. Adventure seekers can try climbing forests like Bärenfalle or Grüntensee, and summer toboggan runs are available at Alpsee and Hündle.

Absolutely! Oberallgäu is very family-friendly. The Breitach Gorge and Starzlach Gorge offer exciting, well-secured paths for families. The Freibergsee is a great spot for swimming and relaxing. Erlebnisbad Aquaria in Oberstaufen is a water park with pools, slides, and saunas, perfect for all weather. The Allgäu Skyline Park is Bavaria's largest amusement park with over 60 attractions. Many trails, like the Trettach River Trail, are also suitable for families.

Oberallgäu offers unique experiences year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the lakes, with alpine flowers blooming on peaks like the Fellhorn Summit. Autumn brings stunning forest colors, particularly around the Hinanger Waterfall. In winter, the region transforms into a snowy wonderland, with the Breitach Gorge becoming particularly enchanting with its ice formations, and opportunities for skiing and winter hiking.

Beyond the well-known attractions, Oberallgäu has some unique natural monuments. The 'Gerichtslinde' in Reichholzried is a beautiful thousand-year-old tree. The 'Dengelstein' near Kempten is the largest preserved boulder from the Iller Glacier. You can also discover the 'Judenkirche,' a large natural rock arch, or the 'Bockerstein,' a 30-meter-high Nagelfluh rock. The 'Sturmannshöhle' in Obermaiselstein is the only accessible cave in the Allgäu, offering a fascinating underground experience.

Yes, several lakes in Oberallgäu are suitable for swimming. The Alpsee, Niedersonthofner See, and Rottachsee are popular choices. For a more secluded and refreshing experience, the Lower Gaisalp Lake, though naturally cold, is a fantastic spot for a swim in summer, offering wonderful nature away from the crowds.

Oberallgäu boasts numerous viewpoints offering spectacular vistas. The Fellhorn Summit provides a fantastic 360-degree view, even extending to Switzerland on clear days. The Nebelhorn, accessible by cable car, also offers high-altitude trails and panoramic views. The Grünten Summit and Hochgrat are other prominent peaks with impressive outlooks. Even within gorges like Starzlach Gorge, you'll find scenic viewpoints of the powerful water.

Many of Oberallgäu's natural attractions and hiking trails are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore with your canine companion. Always check local regulations for specific areas, especially nature reserves, and keep your dog on a leash where required. The numerous forest trails and paths around lakes are generally suitable for walks with dogs. For example, the Trettach River Trail is a pleasant option.

Oberallgäu offers various seasonal events and traditions. The traditional Allgäu cattle drive ('Viehscheid') in autumn is a significant cultural event. During the festive season, the Bad Hindelang Christmas market is a highlight, featuring fairy tale parades, a children's market, and local crafts. Throughout the year, local museums often showcase Oberallgäu customs. Exploring a 'Sennerei' (creamery) is also a great way to experience local culture and taste the renowned Allgäu cheese.

While many of Oberallgäu's natural attractions involve uneven terrain, some areas offer more accessible options. For specific information on wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions, it's recommended to check with local tourist information centers or visit the official regional tourism website: visit-oberallgaeu.de. Some lake promenades and town centers may offer easier access.

Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and the well-maintained infrastructure. The dramatic gorges, like Starzlach Gorge, are praised for their scenic paths and impressive natural power. The tranquility and beauty of mountain lakes such as Lower Gaisalp Lake are often highlighted. The panoramic views from summits like Fellhorn Summit are consistently a favorite, especially for the stunning alpine flowers. The region's blend of adventure and relaxation, along with its family-friendly options, also receives high acclaim.