Experience nature
Excursion destinations in the Altmühl Valley
Museums, castles, palaces, fossils, dinosaurs, parks, monasteries and churches for varied holiday days.
Discover & marvel
The finest excursion destinations in the Altmühl Valley Nature Park
The Altmühl Valley is an excellent destination in southern Germany for discovering the treasures of nature in all their facets. But it is not only the natural diversity itself that makes the nature park a real experience.
Here you can also enjoy cultural offerings such as museums, exhibitions and events, marvel at the historically valuable architecture of castles and palaces, and experience the history of dinosaurs and fossils up close.
Young or old, rain or shine: the excursion destinations are so varied that there is something for almost every taste. After an impressive day out, you can round off the day in a relaxed way in the spa area of Hotel Dirsch.
Knowledge & history
Museums and exhibitions
More than 100 museums and exhibitions make the Altmühl Valley a special cultural destination. Discover individual eras, the origins of the automotive industry, or art and natural history.
Well-known destinations include the Audi museum mobile in Ingolstadt and the Jura-Museum in the Willibaldsburg above Eichstätt, with fossils from the Solnhofen limestone and the Archaeopteryx.
Middle Ages & Baroque
Castles and palaces
Castles, palaces and ruins tell of the region's cultural history. On foot or by bike, historic buildings can be explored individually and got to know more closely on guided tours.
Prunn Castle towers as a mighty hilltop castle above the Altmühl Valley. The Bechthal ruins and other palaces and castles also make great destinations for a varied day trip.
Dinosaurs & the Jurassic
Dinosaurs and fossils
The Jurassic period is still visible in the Altmühl Valley today. Fossil quarries, museums and hands-on attractions invite families to go on a voyage of discovery themselves.
The Dinosaurier Museum Altmühltal, the Jura-Museum and fossil quarries combine learning, hands-on activities and adventure.
Green spaces & relaxation
Gardens and parks
Gardens and parks offer a peaceful counterpoint to sporty excursions. Footpaths, scent and touch stations or seating areas by the water make them relaxing destinations for all generations.
The Garten der Sinne (Garden of the Senses) in Eichstätt and the Sulzpark in Beilngries are examples of green excursion destinations in the region.
Faith & architecture
Monasteries and churches
Churches and monasteries shape the cultural landscape of the Altmühl Valley. Baroque interiors, monastery gardens and centuries of architectural history invite you to pause and explore.
Well-known destinations include the Schutzengelkirche (Guardian Angel Church) in Eichstätt and the Benedictine Plankstetten Abbey with its farm shop, restaurant and guided tours.
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