Planegg: Maria Eich, churches and the Würm

These different themes can help you plan your stay around your interests.

Maria Eich: Pilgrimage and paths

Maria Eich is located in the Kreuzlinger Forst and the Würm Valley southwest of Munich. The pilgrimage tradition is linked to a statue of the Virgin Mary placed in an oak tree at the beginning of the 18th century. Benches beneath old and young trees on the pilgrimage grounds offer a place to rest and pray. The Baroque Chapel of Grace and the modern pilgrimage church are open to visitors. The site therefore brings together a historic religious connection and two church buildings from different periods.

The pilgrimage route to Maria Eich is mostly flat, with gentle inclines at bridges and underpasses. Cycle paths, hiking trails and walking routes also pass by Maria Eich. Pilgrims can take the S-Bahn back from Planegg station. If you plan to use this option, check public transport connections before your trip.

Maria Eich’s annual program provides an overview of special church services, concerts and days of reflection. Specific offerings vary, so it is worth checking the dates for your planned visit.

Churches and culture

St. Martin is the historic center of old Martinsried and was first documented in 1180. Its furnishings include three Renaissance-influenced altars, as well as a processional cross and a pulpit cross from the 18th century. The date of its first documentation and the later furnishings offer different points of reference for the church’s history. This provides a cultural and historical comparison between contrasting features: Baroque and modern church buildings shape Maria Eich, while the Renaissance-influenced altars and two crosses from the 18th century stand out among the furnishings at St. Martin.

The Waldkirche in Planegg was built in 1926 to designs by Munich architect Theodor Fischer. The Kulturforum Planegg presents cultural events in several artistic disciplines at different venues.

There are subscription series for concerts, theatre and cabaret. The Kupferhaus has a large hall with a capacity of 450 guests. As the program and subscription options may change, check current events before visiting.

The Würm as a swimming spot

At the swimming spot on the Würm, you can swim in the river and sunbathe on the adjacent meadow. It is considered a free public bathing area, not an official swimming pool with lifeguard supervision and set admission hours. Check local bathing conditions before using the site.

Planegg as a place to relax

Planegg became a destination for relaxation for Munich residents, especially after the Pasing–Starnberg railway line opened in 1854. This historical connection adds context to today’s reasons to visit, showing how Planegg gained importance as an excursion destination.

Discover more destinations: Grasbrunn, Neubiberg, Ottobrunn, Ismaning, Aying, Sauerlach, Aschheim, Schäftlarn

See the main travel guide: Munich.