Majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, quaint villages and traditional towns — the heart of the Allgäu hides a multifaceted landscape with an almost magical attraction: the Ostallgäu.
The district of Ostallgäu is located in the south of Bavaria, in the administrative district of Swabia, and stretches from Füssen to Buchloe. With the Ammergau and Allgäu Alps and breathtaking viewpoints, numerous lakes and mysterious legends and sagas, the special landscape of the Ostallgäu delights guests and locals alike. And what better way to explore such a diverse region than on foot or by bike? Take in the region at your own pace on idyllic paths, with plenty of time to pause and enjoy.
With over 1,300 kilometers of cycle paths and 2,400 kilometers of hiking trails, the Ostallgäu is ideal for an eventful multi-day hike. Whether sporty and active or full of enjoyment, up steep peaks or through green valleys — the Ostallgäu offers a tour for every taste!
On two wheels through the Ostallgäu: the Schlossparkradrunde
A special highlight for cycling enthusiasts is the Schlossparkradrunde. Over 220 kilometers, it leads past royal palaces and castles, majestic mountains and fairytale panoramas. During the ride, it quickly becomes clear why King Ludwig II was so fascinated by this region that he had his fairytale castle Neuschwanstein built there.
The cycle tour through the Ostallgäu begins in Füssen, a cycling hub in the northern Alps. Not only does the Schlossparkradrunde start here — the Allgäu Cycle Tour, the Lake Constance-Königssee Cycle Route, the Via Claudia Augusta and the Romantic Road also intersect here. Coincidence? Hardly. Because the small town is not just located in a bike-friendly area, but has its own convincing arguments: at over 800 meters above sea level, the historic old town of Füssen is the highest old town in Bavaria and invites you to stroll and linger with its numerous shops, cafés and pubs.
The first stage of the Castle Park Cycle Tour has several highlights in store: the two royal castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. We recommend a short detour to the Marienbrücke bridge, which offers the most beautiful view of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle. The last stretch there has to be covered on foot, but it’s worth the 15 minutes!
After this royal stopover, the route continues through moorland and felt landscapes to another famous sight: the magnificent Wieskirche, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.
The following stages are characterized by varied natural landscapes, impressive Alpine panoramas and fantastic natural scenery. You return to Füssen via Buchloe, Bad Wörishofen and Görisried.
Discover the region on foot on the Ostallgäu stage hiking trails
Those who prefer to leave their bikes behind and explore the area on foot are also in good hands in the Ostallgäu. The Ostallgäu stage trails present the district in all its diversity on three different routes.
The Idyllegarten route leads through wonderful nature in 7 days — over gentle hills, through green meadows and to glistening lakes. It is particularly suitable for hiking enthusiasts who prefer to walk far rather than steeply uphill. With only a few meters of elevation gain and numerous moments to pause for a moment, the tour is the definition of a truly enjoyable hike.
The Königsalpen route offers a little more altitude, but just as many sights. The views of the castles and palaces against an imposing Alpine backdrop give the tour its name. For medieval fans and fairytale lovers alike: the two fairytale castles of Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau as well as the ruins of Nesselburg and Falkenstein.
If you want to take extra time to enjoy yourself, it is best to choose the Logenplatz route. The 9‑day hiking tour offers a successful variety between relaxed and more strenuous sections, with the unique Alpine panorama usually in view. As if from a place of honor, hikers observe the multifaceted nature like a spectacle, with the Ostallgäu as the protagonist.
Also worthwhile for a short detour
The Ostallgäu can be experienced not only with the Schlosspark tours. Numerous multi-day tours begin or end in this region or run through it. For example, the Maximiliansweg, which leads from Füssen across the Alps, or the Jakobsweg, which crosses various towns in the Ostallgäu depending on the Feuer und Eis variant.