Pfaffstätt: History and Nature

Pfaffstätt combines archaeological traces on the Siedelberg with trails through the landscape along the Mattig River. The town’s history is reflected in the recorded name “Paphstetti” and in references to its churches. The landscapes described here offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. You can shape your stay around cultural history, nature, or outdoor activities.

Archaeology and Local History

A Celtic settlement once stood on the present-day Burgstall in Pfaffstätt, fortified on its western side with three man-made ramparts. These ramparts are still clearly visible. The Pfaffstätt Burgstall on the Siedelberg is one of Austria’s largest known early medieval fortifications. These two features offer different historical perspectives: the Celtic settlement and the early medieval fortification. The visible ramparts provide a particularly tangible connection between the archaeological history and the landscape.

The heritage register dated June 23, 2026, lists both the Siedelberg Burgstall and Schloss Pfaffstätt at Schlossweg 1 as protected historic monuments. A reference to the town’s church history dates back to 1343: at that time, the branch church in Pfaffstätt, dedicated to Saint Vitus, was transferred to the patronage of Mattsee Abbey. A small baptistery was also built on the Mattig River. The place name “Paphstetti” was first mentioned in a document from the Diocese of Passau. These different connections—archaeological history, heritage protection, church records, and the place name—offer several ways to get to know Pfaffstätt.

The Mattig River, Landscapes, and Trails

Near Pfaffstätt, the Mattig River flows in its natural riverbed. Green meadows, shady forests, and fertile fields also shape the landscape and are ideal for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding in nature. Your travel plans can therefore focus on both cultural history and the landscape. If you are interested in both, you can treat local history and outdoor activities as separate themes for your stay.

For hikers, two route descriptions differ in the role Pfaffstätt plays: the Marien-Wanderweg passes through Pfaffstätt via Trattmannsbergerweg; the alternative MWW Kirchbergrunde route starts in Pfaffstätt. In one description, the town is the destination; in the other, it is the starting point for the alternative route. Check the current route before setting out, as route conditions can change.

There is also a specific route description for cyclists: the cycle path leads toward Pfaffstätt. There, cyclists leave the path, turn into the town, and take the road marked “Munderfing” on the right. Unlike the hiking directions, this description covers an approach with a named turnoff. Check the current route before your ride, as conditions can change here too.

If you are looking for a hotel in Pfaffstätt, the themes of your stay can guide your choice of location: archaeological and church history, the Mattig River, or activities in the landscape. This lets you plan your trip around specific interests and decide whether cultural history, outdoor activities, or both will shape your stay.

Discover more destinations: Wimpassing, Polling Im Innkreis, Aspach, Sankt Pantaleon, Helpfau-Uttendorf, Altheim, Tarsdorf, Sankt Johann am Walde

For the regional travel overview: Braunau Am Inn.