The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Wöhrsee

1.051 meters, six castle courtyards, magnificent gardens, two chapels, and a breathtaking panorama: Burghausen Castle is not only the longest castle in the world, it is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and the heart of the city. As you stroll through the centuries on a walk through the castle courtyards and finally cross a massive wooden bridge through the mighty iron gate into the defiant main castle, you are transported to the pure Middle Ages and experience a unique piece of European history. The first expansion of the castle began in the 11th century, followed by further development as the seat of the Counts of Burghausen in the 12th century. The fortress complex took on its present form in the 15th century under the wealthy Lower Bavarian Dukes, particularly Duke Henry XIII and Duke George the Rich. Source:https://www.visit-burghausen.com/weltlaengste-burg

An absolute must when visiting Burghausen Castle! The café is located in the historic "Pfisterei" (the old ducal bakery) and perfectly combines rustic castle ambiance with modern design. Why a stop is worthwhile: View: From the terrace or the idyllic "Pfistergartl" (pastry garden), you have a fantastic view over Lake Wöhrsee. Culinary delights: The homemade bread and regional organic specialties are especially recommended. Atmosphere: Whether for a quick espresso within the historic walls or a leisurely breakfast – the location in the first courtyard is unique. Tip: Perfect as a destination or stopover during a hike around Lake Wöhrsee or a tour of the castle grounds! Additional information for your planning: * Opening hours: Usually open from 10:00/11:00 am (it's best to check the website, as it may close earlier in case of storms). Location: Directly in the main castle (Burg 46).

The current structure, a steel and concrete bridge, was inaugurated in 1963 – three years after the "New Bridge" further upstream. Locals still refer to it as the "Old Bridge," as it was first mentioned in 1272 and had several predecessors, which were completely or partially destroyed at least 12 times by floods and 6 times by ice jams. In 1809, Austrian troops rendered the bridge unusable to hinder Napoleon I Bonaparte's advance to Vienna. During a minor flood in 1959, a work platform that broke loose from the "New Bridge" severely damaged the "Old Bridge," before the major flood of the same year destroyed the temporary bridge that had been erected at short notice; for a time, there was no permanent crossing of the Salzach River near Burghausen, only a ferry service. This flood – with a maximum water level of 8.14 meters, one of Burghausen's worst – was the catalyst for the construction of the flood protection wall.

Beautiful view of the castle over the Wöhrsee

Nice café located in the middle of the castle complex

The Holy Spirit Hospital, with its Holy Spirit Church, is a former hospital in the old town of Burghausen. It now serves as a church meeting center and a BRK retirement home. Between 1319 and 1332, Friedrich der Mautner and his brother-in-law Konrad Ermreich founded a hospital building with a church and cemetery outside the city gates for the sick and needy. The hospital existed here until 1956 and was replaced by a new building on the banks of the Salzach River. Afterward, the building served as an episcopal seminary and, since 1993, as the church meeting center "Haus der Begegnung Heilig Geist" (House of Encounter Holy Spirit).

The square around the parish church of St. James was probably once a marketplace. A cemetery near the church was first mentioned in 1335. Burials took place here until 1804. From 1402 to 1804, a chapel stood parallel to the church on the church square. In 1855, the Marian column made of Untersberg marble with a cast-iron statue was erected.

"In den Grüben," with its colorful, mostly late-Gothic artisan houses, is largely a pedestrian zone. The street, which leads into the town square, is not only a popular meeting place but also a lively area for restaurants, arts, crafts, and shopping. Burghausen has hosted the International Jazz Week since 1970. To mark its thirtieth anniversary in 1999, decorative stones were set into the street's pavement in honor of the artists: the city's "Street of Fame." Jazz legends such as Ella Fitzgerald, Chris Barber, Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck, and Till Brönner have all performed in Burghausen. The stones bear the names, signatures, and dates of birth and death of the artists.