Gammertingen: Old Town History and the Lauchert Valley

Gammertingen combines a distinctive historic town layout with the Lauchert Valley and the adjoining Alb plateau. Old town routes, a museum and seasonal outdoor activities offer different ways to plan your trip, from local history to nature.

Old town layout and historic routes

The historic town layout was established in the 12th or 13th century on flood-free tufa terraces west of the Lauchert. Its rectangular area measures 175 × 200 metres and is still recognisable today; originally, it was entirely enclosed by a town wall. Remains of the town wall and moat are also part of the historic old town, which Route 1 passes through.

The approximately 1-kilometre Route 1 starts at Speth’s Town Palace, now the town hall, and is clearly signposted. The former palace was built in 1775 in the neoclassical style on the site of an earlier palace dating from the 13th century. The starting point thus brings together its present-day function as the town hall and a building whose history goes back to a medieval predecessor.

The approximately 3-kilometre Route 2 starts at the Old Brewery and leads to sights outside the historic town centre. By comparison, Route 1 is shorter and focuses on the old town, while Route 2 extends beyond its core. The two routes therefore offer different lengths and destinations for exploring Gammertingen.

Museum and regional history

The Museum in the Old District Office collects and researches the history of Gammertingen and the region, retelling it in ever-changing exhibitions. It is located on the second floor of the historic Old District Office, built in 1724/25. The working group organises two to three exhibitions a year in the museum’s rooms. While the routes explore the historic town layout outdoors, the museum focuses on the history of the town and region through changing exhibitions.

The Lauchert Valley and seasonal nature activities

Gammertingen is situated in the Lauchert Valley. The valley and the adjoining Alb plateau are considered a popular local recreation area, thanks to their extensive forests and invigorating climate. This means that, alongside the historic town layout, the landscape is another focus of a stay.

There are five newly created cross-country ski trails in the outlying districts, with a total length of just under 23 kilometres. They can be used when snow conditions are suitable and are suitable for both classic and skate skiing. Snow conditions are essential for this activity; the two styles offer a choice of different ways to cross-country ski.

The Gammertingen municipal trekking camp is located in the natural surroundings of the Fehlatal Valley. Its stated opening period is May to October; bookings are made online only. Check the current seasonal information before making firm plans to stay there.

In the associated municipality, a Kneipp facility that has been in existence for over 80 years is located on the Lauchert between the town centre of Gammertingen and the district of Bronnen. It has been completely renovated and expanded with additional leisure and recreation facilities. Check the facility’s current status before visiting.

Your choice of accommodation can therefore reflect the themes you want to shape your stay.

In the wider destination of Sigmaringen

The wider destination of Sigmaringen offers another focus on cultural history. Sigmaringen Castle evolved from a medieval castle into a princely residence and is considered a landmark of the town. Castle tours offer an insight into almost 1,000 years of Hohenzollern family history. The DonauFelsenLäufe trails are also in Sigmaringen: the five premium hiking trails lead through the Danube Valley, the Schmeien Valley and the Lauchert Valley. This distinguishes Gammertingen’s old town routes and the Lauchert Valley from the castle’s history and hiking trails in the wider destination.

Discover more destinations: Sauldorf, Thiergarten, Veringenstadt, Herbertingen, Neufra, Wald, Meßkirch, Schwäblishausen.

Go to the wider travel overview: Sigmaringen.