Schleching: Mountain Nature, Church Art and Traditions

Schleching brings together the mountain landscape around the Geigelstein, trails along the Tyrolean Ache and a distinctive church landscape. A municipality and parish village, it lies in the Upper Bavarian district of Traunstein on the border with Tyrol. The Geigelstein Nature Reserve extends into the Achental valley and forms the heart of the mountain villages of Schleching and Sachrang. Mountain forests, alpine meadows, mountain streams, krummholz and rocky summit areas provide habitats for chamois, marmots and grouse. Mountain nature, riverside trails and church visits offer different ways to spend your holiday days.

Geigelstein, the River and Winter Trails

Hiking in and around the Geigelstein is a major part of Schleching. In the colder months, there are cross-country ski trails, ski touring routes and winter hiking trails; snow and seasonal conditions affect which activities are possible at any given time. Since 2017, Schleching has been one of Germany’s Mountain Hiking Villages. Its focus on sustainable tourism and preserving traditions adds a cultural perspective to the outdoor activities.

The Smuggler’s Trail is a family-oriented themed trail that runs from Schleching along the Tyrolean Ache through the Entenlochklamm gorge to Kössen in Tyrol. At the narrowest point of the gorge, there are two suspension bridges accessible only on foot. This makes the route along the river and through the gorge quite different from the mountain hikes on the Geigelstein. If you plan to visit the gorge, check seasonal conditions and access arrangements beforehand.

Rafting and kayaking are also possible on the Tyrolean Ache in the Schleching area. Check providers and seasonal availability separately. The Achental hiking bus serves hiking destinations between Winklmoosalm and Geigelstein, helping you plan point-to-point hikes that do not end where they began. Check the timetable and terms of service before planning your trip.

Churches, Art and Traditions

The Church of St. Servatius at Streichen contains murals dating from around 1440, considered an exceptional example of medieval church art. In general, the church is open to visitors daily; its main interior is opened for services, events or guided tours. The Church of St. Remigius in Schleching was built between 1735 and 1737 and is considered one of the most significant early Rococo churches in the rural Alpine foothills. It can be visited daily. Check current opening arrangements before your visit.

In the Raiten district, the pilgrimage church of Maria zu den Sieben Linden is an annual destination for a traditional-costume pilgrimage from the southern Chiemgau. If the pilgrimage is important to your trip, check its seasonal dates. The churches can be enjoyed as a distinct focus alongside mountain and river experiences.

Trails and Regional Specialties

You can find Schleching specialties in inns, grocery stores and directly from farmers. Selection and availability may vary depending on the season and point of sale. The Schleching Nativity Scene, Church and Chapel Trail is a circular route through the valley that you can start or leave at any point. Parking is available for the trail at the Schleching Tourist Information Office and at the school; check these practical details before you set out.

When looking for accommodation in Schleching, it is worth thinking about the pace you want for your trip: are you mainly interested in mountain hikes and winter trails, a walk along the Ache, or churches, a pilgrimage and regional specialties? These interests offer different ways to shape your holiday days.

For your next destination, you can also discover Mühlau.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Reit Im Winkl, Engelsberg, Übersee, Surberg, Schnaitsee, Tittmoning, Chieming

Back to the main travel overview: Traunstein.