Schleching: Geigelstein, the Smuggler Trail and Churches

Schleching is a municipality and a parish village in Upper Bavaria, in the district of Traunstein on the border with Tyrol. Alpine nature, hiking trails and churches shape the picture when choosing it as a travel destination. The Geigelstein Nature Reserve extends into the Achental Valley and lies at the heart of the mountain villages of Schleching and Sachrang. This makes it possible to plan a stay around landscape, outdoor activities and cultural heritage, with highlights ranging from mountain tours and winter activities to historic churches and an annual pilgrimage.

Geigelstein and the Alpine landscape

The Geigelstein Nature Reserve encompasses mountain forests, alpine meadows, mountain streams, krummholz and rocky summit areas. These varied habitats are home to chamois, marmots and grouse. The landscape therefore includes open alpine pastures and rocky terrain, as well as wooded and water-rich areas.

Schleching has been one of Germany’s mountaineering villages since 2017. The focus is on sustainable tourism and preserving traditions. Mountain tours on and around Geigelstein are one possible focus for a stay. If you plan your trip around the time of year, also take into account the different conditions for summer and winter activities.

Trails, gorge and activities

The Smuggler Trail is a family-friendly themed trail that runs from Schleching along the Tiroler Ache through the Entenlochklamm gorge to Kössen in Tyrol. At the narrowest point of the gorge are two suspension bridges, accessible only on foot. Weather and maintenance can affect access, so check conditions before setting out. The route continues through the gorge into Tyrol, offering a specific option for travelers who want to explore the Smuggler Trail.

The Schleching Nativity Scene, Church and Chapel Trail follows a different route: as a loop through the valley, you can join or leave it at any point. For planning a longer hike, the Achental hiking bus serves hiking destinations between Winklmoosalm and Geigelstein. It supports point-to-point hikes where you do not return to the same starting point. Check the timetable and conditions of use before traveling.

In winter, options in Schleching include cross-country ski trails, ski touring and winter hiking trails. Their use depends on snow and seasonal conditions. Rafting and kayaking on the Tiroler Ache in the Schleching area are also possible activities; check providers and seasonal availability separately. Activities differ not only in type, but also in the conditions they depend on.

Churches and regional traditions

The Church of St. Servatius at Streichen contains murals dating from around 1440, regarded as an exceptional example of medieval church art. The church is generally open to visitors daily; its main area is opened for services, events or guided tours. As opening arrangements can change, it is advisable to check before visiting.

The Church of St. Remigius in Schleching was built between 1735 and 1737 and is considered one of the most significant early rural Rococo churches in the Alpine foothills. It can be visited daily; here too, check opening hours in advance. The two churches offer different art-historical highlights: the Streichen Church is known for its medieval murals, while St. Remigius belongs to the early rural Rococo style.

In the district of Raiten, the pilgrimage church “Our Lady of the Seven Linden” is the annual destination of a traditional costume pilgrimage from the southern Chiemgau. The dates are seasonal. If you would like to time your visit to coincide with the pilgrimage, check the event dates in advance.

Schleching specialties

You can find Schleching delicacies at local inns, grocery shops and directly from farmers. Availability may vary depending on the season and point of sale. The different options give you the opportunity to discover regional specialties in a variety of places; do not assume that the same selection is available at every outlet.

Discover more destinations: Mühlau, Waldhausen, Bergen, Schnaitsee, Kirchanschöring, Reit Im Winkl, Altenmarkt an der Alz, Ruhpolding.

Go to the main travel overview: Traunstein.