Ruderatshofen: Elbsee, History and Legends

Elbsee, an old mill and a traditional Advent custom give Ruderatshofen its many different facets. Visitors choosing the town for a trip may be interested in nature by the water, exploring architectural history, or learning about the stories and traditions of the Ostallgäu.

Elbsee: Moor Lake and Lido

Elbsee is a moor lake surrounded by a protected landscape. There is a lido at the lake, which operates depending on the season and weather. A nearby information pavilion at the starting point of the walk explores another aspect of nature: it provides information about the beaver family living at Elbsee. The lake thus caters to different interests: the water and lido on the one hand, and information about the beaver family on the other.

There is also a campsite at Elbsee, suitable for caravans, motorhomes and tents. For travellers using one of these types of accommodation, this is a useful point to consider when planning. If you are looking for other types of accommodation, the lake, churches and local history can help you decide which of Ruderatshofen’s attractions appeal most to you.

Church and Mill: Traces of Different Eras

Today’s Church of St James in Ruderatshofen was probably built in the 15th century; the Romanesque tower was retained. A disused grain mill has also been preserved and partially restored in the town. Alongside the mill wheel, one of the four large millstones and other components remain in their original condition. The church’s history centres on its presumed date of construction, while the mill highlights the preservation of parts of its original equipment.

Another historic landmark is in Apfeltrang: the parish church of St Michael took on its present appearance in 1700. Together, these local histories offer different ways to explore the past—through a church’s architectural history as well as original components from a disused mill.

Legends Trail and Advent Custom

The Sagenhaft Trail starts at Walburga Chapel and continues to Ruderatshofen and Hiemenhofen. Information boards, texts and life-size figures bring the legends and stories of the Ostallgäu to life. This combination of storytelling and figures gives the route a distinctive focus: it is not just about the path itself, but also about the traditions and stories shared along the way.

The Klopferstag is another living tradition preserved in Ruderatshofen. On this day, village children go from door to door to announce the start of Advent; the exact details may vary from year to year. While the Sagenhaft Trail features legends from the Ostallgäu, the Klopferstag is a local custom with a clear connection to the Advent season.

More Ideas in the Ostallgäu

The wider travel destination of the Ostallgäu has 32 local hiking routes showcasing special treasures in nature and in the towns and villages. The Ostallgäu cycling region comprises regional routes that extend across the entire Ostallgäu. Each is 25 to 76 kilometres long, consistently signposted and has its own theme. If you are looking for more travel ideas beyond Ruderatshofen, you can choose between hiking routes and themed cycling trails across the Ostallgäu.

The lake, churches, mill and local customs also give you several reasons to take a closer look at Ruderatshofen as a travel destination.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Bidingen, Aitrang, Apfeltrang.

Back to the wider travel overview: Biessenhofen.