Großdorf: Discover hiking and history

A challenging stage of the Allgäu Hiking Trilogy passes through Großdorf; at the same time, historic traces tell stories of times past.

Hiking through Großdorf

Stage 07 of the Allgäu Hiking Trilogy’s Himmelsstürmer Route leads from Oy-Mittelberg to Rettenberg and through Großdorf. It then follows a nature-rich trail to Alpe Müllers Berg and onward to Vorderburg Castle ruins. The stage is rated difficult, is 23.75 kilometres long and takes about 7.5 hours. This makes it a full day of hiking, not a short walk: the distance, walking time and difficulty provide concrete guidance for planning.

Another hiking option is available in the wider destination of Rettenberg: Bier-Genusswanderweg Tour 3 leads from Rettenberg to Alpe Kalkhöf. It is described as a tour for advanced hikers; the listed figures are around 8.6 kilometres, about 3 hours and 15 minutes of walking time, and 500 metres of elevation gain. Compared with Stage 07, both the distance and the stated walking time are considerably shorter. The different ratings are important: the Himmelsstürmer stage is rated difficult, while Tour 3 is for advanced hikers.

The Amtshaus and the history of the castle

The historic Amtshaus in Großdorf is about 500 years old. It once housed a notary’s office and served as a tavern—two former functions that reveal different sides of its history.

Another trace of history leads to Rettenberg Castle. It was built around 1100 as the ancestral seat of the noblemen and barons of Rettenberg, who held extensive estates in the Allgäu. The family associated with the ruins of Rettenberg Castle was highly significant to the history of the Upper and Eastern Allgäu. It is first mentioned in 1130 as Adelprecht de Rotinberch.

For the route to Rettenberg Castle, a route description updated on 19 September 2021 gives directions from Engelpolz via Emmereis to Vorderburg. Park there, then follow the marked trail for about 20 minutes on foot to the castle. Check local conditions before setting out.

More experiences in the wider destination of Rettenberg

Rettenberg lies in the Nagelfluhkette Nature Park at the foot of the Grünten. Its hiking options include five beer-tasting trails. Along these trails, innkeepers, alpine huts and mountain huts each offer a ProBiererle: a local speciality paired with a Rettenberg beer selected to complement it. Rettenberg is also home to the Allgäu brewing tradition; the three named breweries are Bernardibräu, Engelbräu and Privatbrauerei Zötler.

Culinary events are also part of what Rettenberg offers: Kässpatzen evenings and other culinary events, including beer-and-cheese evenings, take place regularly. Specific dates may change; check the event schedule if you would like to plan your trip around one.

Rettenberg also offers a range of options for other outings. The approximately 2.6-kilometre-long “Abenteuer Galetschbach” experience trail follows the Galetschbach stream. The entire circular route is accessible and easy to travel with a wheelchair or pushchair. The family swimming pool at the Grünten is right next to the village café and has a large sunbathing lawn and natural shade; its seasonal opening may vary. There is a mini-golf course in the Kurgärtle beside the village café.

In winter, Rettenberg has the sunny circular cross-country ski trail around Emmereiser Moos as well as a small, floodlit evening trail. Snow conditions vary by season. Those interested in other activities can also visit the Grünten archery facility, which has shooting ranges and a 3D course.

A Kneipp facility in Großdorf

As a local highlight, the idyllic Kneipp facility in Großdorf offers the chance to refresh your feet and recharge. Check the facility’s current conditions before your visit.

For the wider travel overview: Rettenberg.