Schlier: Forest, Water and History

Schlier combines forest and water landscapes with traces of historical use and local memory. The municipality is located in the district of Ravensburg in Baden-Württemberg and is considered part of the Allgäu. The Allgäu lies in the southern part of the Danube-Iller-Lech Plateau in the Alpine foothills.

Discover Forest and Water

The Altdorfer Forest encompasses a nature and landscape conservation area with lakes, springs and wet meadows. Some habitats are home to rare animal and plant species. In the wooded area around Fuchsenloch, by forest ponds and in nature reserves, visitors may spot water birds, dragonflies and butterflies, as well as some rare plants. Sightings depend on the season and are not guaranteed.

There is a free parking option in the center of Schlier for the Bäche- und Weihertour (Streams and Ponds Tour). Please check on site whether it is available and what restrictions apply.

Waterways and Local History

The Stille Bach is an artificial, ten-kilometer-long watercourse built by monks from Weingarten Abbey around the 11th century. Its water system runs via the Rösslerweiher to mills and sawmills in Weingarten. A water-history hiking trail along the stream explains its long history. This offers a way to view the landscape through its former uses: water represents not only a natural feature, but also a traditional basis for work.

The municipality has numerous wayside crosses, some of which have been extensively restored. On one of Schlier’s higher elevations stands the Zundelbacher Linde, offering views across the surrounding area. Residents of Schlier planted it as a symbol of peace after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870–71. The crosses and the lime tree thus add distinctive features alongside the history of the Stille Bach.

The GeschichtsPfadSchlier (Schlier History Trail) presents regional and local history at stations throughout the municipality, from prehistory to the present day. Its 51 researched topics are spread across 41 information pillars and wall-mounted frames, as well as 10 QR-code signs. The trail is designed to grow over time. This offers different options when planning a family trip: observing nature in the forest, exploring the historical use of water along the stream, or visiting individual stations on local history.

Local Products in Season

The Martinimarkt offers agricultural products from local producers, including poultry, bread and honey. Wild game products from the Schlier Hunting Association are also available. As this is a seasonal market, check the dates against your travel dates before visiting.

Culture in the Wider Destination of Ravensburg

In the wider destination of Ravensburg, the Humpis Quarter Museum offers a unique view of a late-medieval residential quarter. It opened in July 2009, and its permanent exhibition spans five buildings. Regular public tours and individually bookable tours are available for school classes, children and adults. If you plan to visit this cultural attraction, please check the latest tour and booking details.

Discover more destinations: Isny im Allgäu, Hoßkirch, Eichstegen, Kißlegg, Argenbühl, Ravensburg, Achberg, Bad Waldsee

Back to the main travel overview: Ravensburg.