Rainau: Limes History and Adventure Trail at Buch Reservoir

Rainau puts a clear focus on its Roman heritage, complemented by trails and nature experiences at Buch Reservoir. The Upper German-Raetian Limes runs for about 6 km through the municipality, passing through the districts of Buch, Schwabsberg and Dalkingen. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. This gives you various starting points for planning your stay, from the Limes Gate and historic sites to outdoor activities and birdwatching.

The Limes and Roman Monuments

The Limes Gate near Dalkingen is the only known stone-built gate complex along the Upper German-Raetian Limes to have been confirmed by structural remains. It is a structure on the Limes route between the Rhine and the Danube. A 23 m wide and 16 m high glass cube permanently protects the original Roman structure.

In Limes Park Rainau, sections of the Limes and significant individual monuments have been preserved in an especially high concentration. Visitors can climb a reconstructed watchtower and look out over the Ostalb from the top. Guided tours of historic sites are offered by certified Limes Cicerones. If you plan to join a tour, check the dates in advance. The Limes Park also includes a Roman water playground for children.

A Church with Several Historical Layers

The church in Schwabsberg, dedicated to Saint Martin, also offers an insight into the history of the area. It was mentioned as a chapel in 1387 and elevated to parish status in 1749; the present building dates from 1733. The dates mark different stages: its earlier mention as a chapel, the construction of the present building, and its later elevation to parish status. The furnishings include, among other things, Late Gothic sculptures of Saint Nicholas and Saint Sebastian.

Hiking and Experiences at Buch Reservoir

A circular hiking trail about six kilometres long in Rainau leads visitors to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Limes and the area's Roman past. At Buch Reservoir, the adventure trail offers a different distance and different highlights: it is around 1.2 km long, features movement, sound and acoustic experiences, and is also suitable for wheelchair users. Comparing the trail lengths gives you an idea of their scope, without implying a walking time.

Right on the shore of Buch Reservoir, the remains of a Roman bathhouse and civilian settlement can be viewed. A purpose-built observation platform stands on the dam of the forebay, where the bird species found in the area are presented in words and pictures. The same lake thus offers both archaeological traces and information about its birdlife.

The bathing area at Buch Reservoir includes a 150 m long pebble beach. If you plan to go swimming, check the current conditions in advance. This allows you to plan a trip that caters to different interests: Limes history and historic monuments, a trail with movement and sound experiences, or time by the water.

Discover more destinations: Stödtlen, Westhausen, Aalen, Waldstetten, Schechingen, Neresheim, Mutlangen, Leinzell

For the regional travel overview: Ostalbkreis.