The top 5 things to do in South of Germany – explore the Allgäu
When it comes to the most beautiful parts of Germany, Bavaria is on the very top of the list. But apart from Munich or the Zugspitze, there is one particular region, that attracts the attention: the Allgäu. For some the most beautiful parts of the German Alps and one of the most popular destinations of German travel. With mountains over 2000 meters and incredible views over the summits the Allgäu is by far one of the best destinations to visit in Bavaria. Especially for those travellers seeking the outdoors and aiming to get lost in the wild of the mountains. Here are the top 5 things you should not miss when travelling the Allgäu.
Hike the famous „Grünten“ mountain and enjoy the view
There is no way to start a guide to the Allgäu better than with a hike. For most, the number one mountain to hike in the area is the Grünten, 1737 meters altitude. The mountain is also known as the “Guardian of the Allgäu” and you will be able to spot it right away.
While the hike may not be the easiest or the favorite of your stay, it is still a must. During winter and summer, the Grünten offers a panorama view over the mountains and gifts you with a unique overview over the area.
Visit the Lake Hopfen and the Lake Forggen
(Hopfensee and Forggensee)
The Allgäu does not only serve with mountains but as well with beautiful lakes. During summer, you will have a blast spending a day with the locals by the lake and dipping into the fresh cold water. Plus, in the background you can almost always enjoy a mountain view.
Two of the most beautiful lakes, if not even THE most beautiful lakes, in the Allgäu are the Hopfensee and the Forggeensee. Both are located close to the small town of Füssen and are known for their panorama view to the mountains. There are beautiful trails leading around the shore. If you are up for an easy walk but still would like to soak in the mountain view, then this is the right activity.
Notes-from-a-traveller´s tip:
The best photo spot for unique shots of the lakes are along the main street of Lake Hopfen. You will find a few landing stages for boats which are perfect for the gram!
Stroll through the city of Kempten
The main city in the Allgäu is Kempten. While being out in nature and hiking should be your number one priority during your trip to the Allgäu, a day in the city is also a great choice. Kempten offers great shopping opportunities and has a picturesque old town. Have a coffee break in the small cafés and enjoy a completely different picture of the Allgäu. This is perfect on a mild summer evening or a rainy day.
The Neuschwanstein Castle
Of course, the main attractions besides the alpine experiences in the Allgäu is the Neuschwanstein Castle. The home of the former King of Bavaria is somehow the landmark of Bavaria and a must on your trip. You can easily combine it with a stroll through Füssen or the mentioned lakes.
If you are interested in the history of the building and the region, it is highly advised to book a tour. And if you rather enjoy the castle without crowds of tourists, stop at the foot of the mountain to get some great shots.
Visit the Buchenegger Waterfalls
The next highlight on the list of top things to do in the Allgäu are the Buchenegger Waterfalls. During summer this is a true hotspot for both locals and tourists. The waterfalls are located close to the village of Oberstaufen and invite to multiple beautiful hikes.
Choose your own trail – depending on your condition and you motivation – and enjoy the walk through the beautiful region. During the summertime you can bring your bikini or bathing clothes and go for a dip into the cold mountain water. Have a break at the falls and watch people jump into the water. But not only during the summer months but as well during winter, the Buchenegger waterfalls offer stunning views.
Get amazed by the power of water and explore yet another beautiful spot of the Allgäu!
Visit the Lake Attle (Attlesee)
A small but yet very beautiful lake in the Allgäu is the Attle Lake. It is located close to the village of Nesselwang and is mainly known for the beautiful view of both the lake and the mountains in the background.
If you are lucky and visit the lake on a calm day, you might get to witness a beautiful reflection. There is an easy hike route leading you around the lake and the nearby forest. It takes you about an hour and a half and is the ideal route in the area. Have a picnic and enjoy the tranquility of the nature.
This is one of the more remote places in the Allgäu – take this as a secret tip to enjoy a stunning view! You will for sure not regret it.
Stay in a chalet in the mountains
Wanna have the true mountain experience? Then you should put this top thing to do on your list: spending a night in a hut in the mountains. While you can book yourself a private chalet close to Oberstorf, there are as well countless possibilities to get the experience on a budget. Most of the huts in the mountains in the Allgäu have accommodation and invite you to stay for about 20 to 30 euros a night.
Make sure to wake up early for the sunrise and to enjoy a beer while watching the sunset. If you are planning to spend multiple weeks in the south of Bavaria, you might even consider working in one of the huts. But even one night is far above memorable and will make your trip to the Allgäu even better! Make sure to choose a hut that is located quite high in the mountains to get the best views.
Enjoy the Bavarian culture
And last but not least, an absolute Must-Do in the Allgäu is to enjoy the Bavarian culture. Get your own experience of the Allgäu and enjoy a beer. Enjoy your beer at the top of a mountain after a long hike or at the lake after you finish your day – there are countless ways to feel and taste the Allgäu. And if you want to get the regional taste of the locals try the Zöttler beer and Schäffler beer. Have traditional “Kässpatzen” at a local restaurant.
The Allgäu awaits you with a true adventure. Get lost in the mountains and find yourself in the quiet nature. The Allgäu is for those travellers who love the outdoors and cannot get enough of the incredible views. Plan your trip to the Allgäu now and spend your next vacation in the countryside.
For more information on travelling Bavaria, check out The top 8 places in Bavaria that you need to see.
