Schäftlarn: Monastery, Churches and Isar River Routes

Schäftlarn combines monastic history with paths along the Isar River and churches in Hohenschäftlarn. Its historic buildings and varied routes provide concrete points of reference for getting to know Schäftlarn as a travel destination.

Schäftlarn Monastery and Its Garden

The monastery church is considered a noteworthy Rococo gem and is probably one of the finest late Baroque sacred buildings in southern Germany. Together with the church, the 300-year-old main monastery building forms an important architectural ensemble; it is also one of Upper Bavaria’s outstanding cultural monuments. The main monastery building is not open to visitors.

The Prelate’s Garden offers a different perspective. At its centre is a fountain fed by a spring on the nearby hillside. Baroque-era buildings surround the garden, and its curved boundary wall dates from the same period. The garden attracts rose lovers and people who enjoy beautiful surroundings. The fountain, buildings and wall offer different architectural points of interest during a visit.

A short circular route begins opposite the monastery cemetery. It follows a paved path up the hill, past the “Maria Rast” chapel and then along the hillside. Along the way, you can enjoy a view of the monastery church. Check local conditions before setting out for your walk.

Historic Buildings in Schäftlarn

The Neuchl estate, also known as Stallwastl, is the last small farmhouse in Schäftlarn to have been authentically preserved and dates from 1829. It was first mentioned in 1492. In 1828, it burned down almost completely and was subsequently rebuilt. The dates thus tell of different stages: the first mention came long before the fire and reconstruction.

At St. George’s Church in Hohenschäftlarn, the history of the former monastery parish and the construction period of the present building take centre stage. St. George’s is one of the oldest filial churches of this former parish. The present building was constructed from 1729 to 1732 under the direction of Munich master mason Johann Georg Ettenhofer. This makes it possible to distinguish the church’s historical context from the specific construction period of the present building.

Walking and Cycling along the Isar

The “Nature” themed trail runs along the Isar between the Dürnsteiner Bridge near Schäftlarn and the Icking weir. The 9.6-kilometre route is estimated to take around three hours to walk. By comparison, the circular route opposite the monastery cemetery is short and follows a paved path along the hillside. These two descriptions offer different points of reference for planning: a shorter loop by the monastery or a longer route between two named points along the Isar.

The Isar Cycle Path also offers a connection to the monastery: Schäftlarn Monastery is a stop on the route, with a church, monastery tavern and beer garden. So, alongside the walking paths, the cycle route and the places mentioned along it are also worth considering. Whether you are more interested in the monastery’s architecture, the garden, church history or the route by the river, Schäftlarn offers a range of specific themes to help you plan your trip.

Getting to the Monastery

Schäftlarn Monastery is accessible via the A 95 Munich–Garmisch-Partenkirchen motorway and the Schäftlarn exit. Take the S 7 to Ebenhausen-Schäftlarn station; from there, a footpath leads to the monastery. Check the latest S-Bahn service information before travelling so you can plan your journey using the appropriate transport options.

Discover more destinations: Oberhaching, Baierbrunn, Planegg, Grünwald, Haar, Putzbrunn, Aschheim, Straßlach-Dingharting.

Return to the main travel overview: Munich.