Protected Areas in Upper Bavaria

Protected areas are designated zones that conserve distinctive landscapes, habitats, and ecosystems. This page aggregates several such areas in and around Upper Bavaria, offering a variety of terrain from moorlands to wild river valleys. Notable examples include the low moorland of Freisinger Moos Und Echinger Gfild and the river landscape of Lechtal-Nord.

Upper Bavaria contains Germany's only alpine national park, Berchtesgaden National Park, and Bavaria's largest nature reserve, the Ammergebirge. Other significant areas include the Murnauer Moos, the largest preserved moorland in the northern Alpine foothills, and the protected zones around Chiemsee. This page features routes in areas like Lechtal-Süd and Seehamer See Mit Wattersdorfer Moor.

The primary activities are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking across a network of over 600 designated routes. Specific areas offer varied opportunities, from road cycling in the flat Freisinger Moos Und Echinger Gfild to hiking along the wild Lech River in Lechtal-Nord. Mountaineering is also an option in select locations like the Seehamer See area.

There are more than 250 designated hiking trails across the protected areas featured on this page. The terrain varies significantly, from flat, easy walks in moorlands to more challenging alpine routes. For example, Lechtal-Nord offers over 70 hiking trails along the river and into the Alps.

Yes, there are extensive cycling opportunities, including routes for road cycling and touring bicycles. The Freisinger Moos Und Echinger Gfild is particularly well-suited for road cycling, with over 30 designated routes across its flat, low moorland terrain. The Lechtal areas also provide numerous cycling routes along the river.

Mountain biking is a popular activity, with trails available for various skill levels. The protected areas of Lechtal-Nord and Lechtal-Süd each contain around 20 designated mountain bike trails. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from riverside paths to alpine foothills.

The Freisinger Moos Und Echinger Gfild is a protected low moorland characterized by flat terrain. This landscape makes it ideal for activities like road cycling and leisurely hikes. The area features an extensive network of over 180 routes for various outdoor sports.

This protected area offers a mix of lake and moorland scenery. Activities include hiking, jogging, cycling, and even mountaineering on its 5 designated routes. With over 130 total routes available, it provides diverse options for exploring the landscape around the Seehamer See.

Yes, many protected areas offer routes suitable for families. The flat terrain of moorlands like the Murnauer Moos or Freisinger Moos provides options for easy walks and cycling. Berchtesgaden National Park also has a network of trails catering to all abilities, including leisurely walks.

Most hiking and cycling activities are best undertaken from late spring through autumn, when trails are generally free of snow. High alpine routes may only be accessible from early summer to early autumn. Winter allows for activities like skiing in designated areas such as Berchtesgaden National Park.

While both are established for conservation, the term 'protected area' is a broad category that can include national parks and other designations. Nature Reserves in Upper Bavaria ('Naturschutzgebiete') often have stricter regulations to protect specific habitats or species. For example, the Ammergebirge is Bavaria's largest nature reserve, while Berchtesgaden is Germany's only alpine national park.