Discover Pöttmes: Gothic architecture, swimming lake and circular trails

Explore Pöttmes through a range of interests: St. Peter and Paul Parish Church tells the story of Gothic architecture, the Three Castles Tour starts at the market square, and circular hiking trails are signposted in Handzell. There is also the Mandlacher swimming lake recreation area and a youth campsite at Lake Mandlach.

Gothic architecture at St. Peter and Paul

St. Peter and Paul Parish Church in Pöttmes has had its present form since 1498. At that time, it was enlarged and redesigned in the Gothic style. The tower was raised and given a tall spire, and a large choir with external buttresses was added. The layout of the church interior is also part of this redesign: as a basilica, it has a high central nave and two lower side aisles.

The history of the furnishings began later. At the end of the 19th century, the Baroque furnishings were replaced by a Neo-Gothic interior donated by the Barons von Gumppenberg, who were the church's patrons. The Neo-Gothic high altar was created in 1896. The parish church thus reveals distinct historical layers: the building's Gothic form and its later Neo-Gothic furnishings.

The more recent building history is also clearly documented: the parish church underwent a comprehensive renovation from 2022 to 2025. The roof structures and masonry were renovated, and historical stucco elements were added to the west façade.

Market square, circular trails and recreation area

The Three Castles Tour is a 9.4-kilometre circular hiking trail that starts at the Pöttmes market square. The listed Pöttmes Castle and St. John's Chapel are located there. These named landmarks make the starting point easy to identify, while the route length provides a useful basis for planning. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Another historical detail is associated with the Pöttmes gate tower, also known as the West Gate: it dates from the 15th century and has had a white stork nest on it continuously for decades.

Several circular hiking trails are signposted in the countryside around Handzell. The Mandlacher swimming lake recreation area includes a swimming lake, a sunbathing lawn, a kiosk and a children's playground. Check local conditions before your visit.

At Lake Mandlach, youth groups can rent a youth campsite managed by the District Youth Council. This offer is intended for youth groups and is therefore distinct from the general recreational facilities at the swimming lake.

You can also make the parish church's architectural history or a stay by the swimming lake the focus of your visit.

More cultural and hiking ideas in the wider Aichach-Friedberg destination

In the wider Aichach-Friedberg destination, Aichach offers another historical highlight. Its historic old town has changed little over the centuries. The Wittelsbach Museum is housed in the Lower Gate, and the town museum tells the story of Aichach. A hiking brochure published by the town features 15 walks and hiking trails in and around Aichach.

In Friedberg, the Herrgottsruh pilgrimage church was built between 1731 and 1753; it is one of the finest examples of Bavarian Rococo. Friedberg's Wittelsbach Castle traces its origins to a High Medieval castle built around 1257 under Duke Ludwig II the Strict. For cycling, the Aichach-Friedberg district cycling map features 14 well-signposted themed cycling routes.

Discover more destinations: Friedberg, Affing, Schiltberg, Ried, Aindling, Mering, Steindorf, Kissing

Return to the wider travel overview: Aichach-Friedberg.