Höhenkirchen-Siegertsbrunn between Forest and Pilgrimage History

Höhenkirchen-Siegertsbrunn lies in a clearing within an extensive forest. Quiet woods and sunny stretches across open fields define the surrounding area, while the pilgrimage church of St. Leonhard tells a story of a long building history. The Leonhardifest in July adds a lively tradition. You can shape your stay around nature, local history or the festival, depending on your interests.

Forest and Open Countryside

Paths around the town run through woodland and across fields; many routes have only slight changes in elevation. The landscape offers contrasting impressions: quiet woods and sunny stretches across open fields. The Höhenkirchen Forest is a notable natural feature of the area. If you enjoy walking, the type of path and the landscape can help you decide which route to take.

Churches and Building History

St. Leonhard was first mentioned in a document in 1403. The stone church building that still stands today was built in 1460. The church has a single nave; a two-storey side aisle was added on its north side in 1592. St. Leonhard has been remodelled several times, most recently around 1790. Smaller details also tell a story: horseshoes can be seen in the entrance area, including one bearing the year 1683.

Another work of art can be found in Mariä Geburt: a Late Gothic Madonna stands on the side altar. Daily prayer opening hours from 9 am to 5 pm are listed for St. Peter in Siegertsbrunn and Mariä Geburt in Höhenkirchen. Opening hours may change, so check them before visiting. St. Leonhard is not generally open every day because it lacks security systems. Access arrangements may change here too, so it is advisable to check before your visit.

The former Höhenkirchen manor house is also part of the town’s history. It is listed as a two-storey rendered building in the register of listed buildings; its core dates from the 15th or 16th century. Together with the churches, it offers a glimpse of different historical architectural styles, although the buildings do not date from the same period.

Leonhardifest in July

The annual Leonhardifest takes place in July at the pilgrimage church of St. Leonhard in Siegertsbrunn. The festival includes a market and a festival tent. A distinctive part of the tradition is three circuits around St. Leonhard in decorated horse-drawn carriages. The festival thus combines market activities with a clear connection to the pilgrimage church and its history. If the festival is important to your trip, check the specific dates and programme in advance; details may vary from year to year.

Cycle to the Lakes

The cycling trips in the surrounding area also differ in their stated highlights. A ride from Höhenkirchen-Siegertsbrunn to Kastensee follows mostly forest tracks and includes the opportunity to swim in the lake. The ride to Steinsee is often shaded; swimming is possible there on the southeastern shore. When planning, you can choose between two specific features: mostly forest tracks on the Kastensee route, or the often-shaded route and southeastern shore of Steinsee. Trail conditions and swimming opportunities may vary, so check the current situation before setting out.

Plan Your Stay

When choosing accommodation, you can decide which themes matter most to you: churches and building history, the Leonhardifest in July, paths through woods and fields, or a cycling trip to a lake. You can also include Munich in your plans: the S-Bahn journey from Höhenkirchen-Siegertsbrunn to the city centre takes about 30 minutes. Actual journey times may vary depending on the timetable and service conditions; check the connection for your travel date.

Discover more destinations: Baierbrunn, Garching Bei München, Aschheim, Haar, Munich, Pullach Im Isartal, Gräfelfing, Planegg.

Return to the main travel overview: Munich.