Oberstdorf: Nature, Culture and Experiences

Oberstdorf combines nature experiences with insights into local history. Freibergsee is situated at an altitude of 930 metres and, with a water surface of around 18 hectares, is the largest high-altitude lake in the Allgäu. Locals and visitors value it as a place to swim; local restrictions on swimming must be observed. Oberstdorf’s hiking trail network is more than 200 kilometres long, and guided hikes are offered from spring to autumn.

Trails and seasonal activities

The activities at Nordic Park Oberstdorf also change with the seasons: in summer, there is a pump track, a skate park and calisthenics facilities, while in winter there is a snow course. Different activities are therefore in focus depending on when you travel. If you are planning hikes, the season runs from spring through autumn; the lake and the park add further nature and activity options.

Local history and guided insights

The Oberstdorf local history museum is housed in an old Oberstdorf building dating from the 17th century. It offers an engaging look at local crafts, agriculture and alpine farming, as well as cheese production. The historic building and the museum’s themes provide different insights into local life and work.

Guided tours of Oberstdorf introduce the town’s historical and tourist character and focus on the Unterer Markt. They offer a guided perspective on this part of the town. If you are planning a tour, check the current dates in advance.

Ski flying hill and arena

The Heini-Klopfer ski flying hill is open to visitors; the tower lift takes visitors to the viewing platform on the ski jump tower. A guided tour of the hill starts at the landing area and goes up by inclined lift and elevator. It lasts about 1.5 hours. If you are planning this tour, it is worth checking current availability.

Admission to ORLEN Arena Oberstdorf Allgäu includes the ascent to the viewing platform using the lifts and access to the ski museum. As admission details may change, check them before your visit.

Nature trail and gorge

The Hermann-Schallhammer Trail runs around Moorweiher. This nature trail features information panels about plants, animals and geology, bringing these topics together along a circular route.

The Breitachklamm is a rocky gorge near Tiefenbach, close to Oberstdorf, and is described as the deepest gorge in Central Europe. Visitors can explore it on well-maintained, secure paths; trail conditions may vary seasonally.

An insight into the wider Oberallgäu destination

As a separate regional point of interest, the Nagelfluhkette Nature Park Centre is located in Immenstadt-Bühl, right by the Alpsee. It features a free-to-access interactive exhibition about animals, plants, their habitats and the protected area’s distinctive features. From Immenstadt railway station, you can reach the centre on foot via the Achis Wasserweg themed trail in 30 minutes; in bad weather, bus routes 39, 11 and 81 go there. Check walking time and bus connections before setting off.

Plan your stay

These highlights can help you consider your travel dates alongside the activities you have in mind, and tailor your accommodation search to your own travel plans.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Sulzberg, Durach, Wiggensbach, Buchenberg, Kempten, Immenstadt im Allgäu, Waltenhofen, Wertach.

Back to the overarching travel guide: Oberallgäu.