Allgäu / Bavarian Swabia: Romantic contradictions

Allgäu / Bavarian Swabia as a source of energy

The Allgäu/Bavarian Swabia region is noted first and foremost for its unspoilt and unique natural scenery: from fascinating moorland and sweeping fields of flax to clear mountain lakes and the native herbs of the Allgäu Alps.

Experience the unique diversity of this countryside on high Alpine walks with wonderful views above the clouds or on more leisurely tours such as the historic Shepherd’s Trail in Nördlinger Ries. Alternatively, get on your bicycle and pedal along the Danube cycle route through the Swabian Danube Valley, lined with ancient woodland, to Neu-Ulm and Donauwörth. In winter, the snow-covered mountains are perfect for skiing, snowboarding or tobogganing.

Those looking for a more relaxing time can also find plenty of interest in the Allgäu. From herb trails and Kneipp treatments to wellness applications with hay or mud: the rich and healing treasures of nature help people in search of healthy relaxation to switch off from everyday life and recharge their batteries.

The beauty of the region did not go unnoticed by the nobility either. Fairy Tale King Ludwig II built his legendary Neuschwanstein Castle on the rocks near Füssen – now one of the most famous sights in the world.

From the “Romantic Road” to Allgäu mountain cheese

The “Romantic Road”, Germany’s most popular tourist route, leads diagonally through this region: in Allgäu/Bavarian Swabia it passes the meteorite crater of Ries and the famous castle complex of Harburg before entering Augsburg, proud city of the Fugger dynasty.

The region is also brimming with ancient customs: In Obermaiselstein in the Upper Allgäu, for example, locals and visitors celebrate the Viehscheid (cattle drive), as the farmers bring their cows back down to the valley from the high pastures. The animals wear bells produced by cowbell blacksmiths using traditional methods.

The Allgäu/Bavarian Swabia region is particularly noted for its culinary diversity: from Allgäu mountain cheese made by Bavaria’s oldest dairy and hearty game dishes from its native forest to “Kässpatzen” (cheese spaetzle) in the first vegetarian mountain hut in the Alps. The peasant-style cuisine offers nothing but the best – hearty, wholesome and good!

Allgäu / Bavarian Swabia: an overview of the 2018 highlights

• This year Oberstaufen is celebrating its 1150-year anniversary. This will culminate in a festival weekend at the beginning of August.
• 500 years of the Fugger Chapel in Augsburg: The consecration of the Fugger Chapel in St. Anna will be celebrated as the first Renaissance building in Bavaria.