Bihlerdorf: Cycling Routes and Historical Traces

Bihlerdorf is a district of Blaichach on the left bank of the Iller, near Sonthofen. Two themes are especially tangible when choosing a destination here: cycling routes connected to the Iller and historical traces in the local landscape. Local customs and culture in the wider destination of Blaichach also add to the picture. You can first decide whether cycling, history, or exploring the larger municipality will shape your stay most.

Cycling routes and getting your bearings along the Iller

The Illertal Loop starts at the Iller bridge in Bihlerdorf and returns to Bihlerdorf along the Iller. The Allgäu Cycling Loop has a different connection: it runs from Blaichach along the Iller to Bihlerdorf. The village therefore plays a different role on each route: Bihlerdorf marks both the start and return point of the Illertal Loop, while it is the destination of the Blaichach leg of the Allgäu Cycling Loop.

A sequence of roads is also specified for the Illertal Loop: the approach is via the B19 or B308 to Sonthofen, followed by Illerstraße to Bihlerdorf. Together with the start at the Iller bridge, this provides a specific reference point for planning the loop.

Hillfort and historical castle site

Bihlerdorf Hillfort lies about 150 m southwest of Bihlerdorf’s southwesternmost house, directly above the “Im Bachtl” ravine. A still clearly recognizable, though eroded, neck ditch separates the spur from the slope, which continues to rise to the west. This location links the site to a specific feature of the terrain.

Bihlerdorf-Oberzollbrücke Castle stood on a wooded rise between the districts of Bihlerdorf and Oberzollbrücke, west of and above the Iller. It is a vanished castle site, not a surviving castle. The two places therefore represent different historical traces: a hillfort with an earthwork that is still recognizable, albeit eroded, and a vanished castle site.

Tradition in Bihlerdorf

The traditional raising of the maypole is part of local customs. The men of the village raise the pole using muscle power alone, without technical aids such as a winch or tractor. This manual method is the defining feature of the raising.

Blaichach in the wider context

In the wider destination of Blaichach, the transboundary Nagelfluhkette Nature Park adds a broader landscape perspective to the local setting. Visitors can experience rivers and streams, gorges, ravines, and forests, as well as moors, wet meadows, and the biodiversity of alpine pastures.

Cultural sites and events are also rooted in Blaichach. In the district of Altmummen stands the 18th-century Catholic Chapel of St. Florian, with a magnificent altar shrine; Blaichach is home to the Catholic Church of St. Martin. The Blaichach Advent Market is held every year on the eve of the First Sunday of Advent in the paved forecourt of the church and town hall. The Martinus procession with horse blessing has been held annually in Blaichach since 1652.

When looking for a hotel, you can first decide which focus matters to you: the cycling routes, the historical traces in the landscape, or the traditions and cultural sites in the wider destination of Blaichach. Then compare the details of the specific hotels that matter to your choice.

For the wider travel overview: Blaichach.