Experience nature
Hiking in the Altmühl Valley
Between water and rocks, wide valleys and forest clearings, families, beginners and experienced hikers will find trails to suit them.
Altmühl Valley Nature Park
A hiking holiday as a nature and culture experience
The Altmühl Valley Nature Park is a paradise for active holidaymakers – and hikers in particular will find everything their hearts desire here. Between shallow water and rugged rocks, wide valleys and secluded forest clearings, everyone, young or old, beginner or experienced hiker, will find a route to suit their individual needs.
Enjoy the panorama of this varied nature park as you hike and discover along the way the many special features of these historically valuable surroundings: from churches and monasteries to excavation sites and quarries, castles and palaces.
A hiking holiday in the Altmühl Valley is more than a pleasant time in the great outdoors – it is an active and cultural all-round experience for all the senses.
Our tips
Hiking in the Altmühl Valley for every taste
Families
Hiking with children
Anyone planning a hiking holiday with children often looks for varied areas that offer plenty of variety without being too demanding. The Altmühl Valley has a hiking route for every age group and every level of experience that is both challenging and fun.
For example, combine your family hike with a tour to a fossil excavation site and travel back together to the age of the dinosaurs. Swimming spots and climbing parks also provide a welcome change.
Panorama
Hiking with a view
Challenging climbs and winding paths repeatedly reward hikers with sweeping views over the nature park. On the Altmühltal-Panoramaweg you will experience protected wildlife and plants, fascinating rock landscapes and restful breaks with panoramic views.
Depending on your experience and the time available, the long-distance trail can be divided into individual stages.
Nature & culture
Hiking and exploring
Hiking in the Altmühl Valley is not only about experiencing the flora and fauna, but also about the connection between nature and culture. The region's history goes back to the Cretaceous period and sparks curiosity and variety along the trails.
Discover excavation sites, castle ruins, palaces, churches and monasteries, or visit one of the museums in the nearby towns.
Refreshment
Hiking by the water
Being active and yet finding peace – that is exactly what makes a hike in nature so appealing. Between exertion and a sense of freedom, a well-deserved break is a must.
Follow rivers and streams through the landscape or stop for a rest at one of the lakes. If you are looking for even more variety, combine your hike with a canoe tour or a day at the lake.
Active in the Altmühl Valley
Plan hiking trails, family destinations and cultural stops
For route details, stages, maps, current notices and further destinations, the following links lead directly to the official theme pages of the Altmühl Valley Nature Park.
Panoramic and circular hiking trails
Long-distance trail, stages, loop trails and selected circular tours by length and difficulty.
Family trails and fossils
Ideas for outings with children as well as official information on fossil quarries and hands-on activities.
Castles, palaces and museums
Cultural destinations along and near the hiking trails, with detail pages on individual sights.
Trails and experiences by the water
Water nature trails, nature destinations, boat touring and other experiences on the Altmühl, the Danube and the lakes.
