Discover Ohlstadt: Nature, Culture and Mountain Hikes

Ohlstadt lies at the foot of the 1,790-metre-high Mount Heimgarten and on the edge of the Murnauer Moos nature reserve. The town combines its mountain setting with cultural sites and activities to suit a range of trip plans. If you are looking for a hotel in Ohlstadt, it is worth deciding what you want to focus on first: local history and art, trails along the water, a mountain hike or a day at the pool. You can then arrange the sights around your interests and plan your stay accordingly.

Trails by the water and in the mountains

The circular trail to the Kaltwasser Falls follows the Kaltwasserlaine stream. Along the way, you can see the mountain stream and its picturesque cascades. Unlike a hike to the summits, this route focuses on the stream. As trail conditions can change, check them before setting out.

Mount Heimgarten can be reached from Ohlstadt and has a hut that is open in summer. This seasonal place to stop for refreshments may be a factor when planning a hike. Nearby, the ridge walk from 1,790-metre-high Mount Heimgarten to 1,731-metre-high Mount Herzogstand takes about 1.5 hours. The ridge walk links two named summits, while the circular trail to the Kaltwasser Falls follows a stream—a clear distinction to consider when choosing between a mountain hike and a waterside landscape.

After the ridge walk, you can return to Ohlstadt via the chairlift from Mount Herzogstand to Lake Walchensee, followed by a bus via Kochel. As the chairlift and bus schedules are important for this return journey, check them before setting out.

Local history, crafts and art

The Hagrain Chapel in Ohlstadt was built in 1765 and dedicated to Saint Stephen, patron saint of whetstone makers. Its dedication links the building to a specific craft and gives it a connection to local history.

The grinding mill also reflects the area’s craft traditions: it was rebuilt based on a historical model. Visitors can learn about it on regular opening days. As opening arrangements vary by season, it is best to check the dates before your trip.

The studio at Kaulbach Villa now serves as a museum, presenting the subjects and working methods of artist Friedrich August von Kaulbach. The focus is therefore on a different kind of history: rather than a craft, it explores an artist and his work. If you plan to visit the museum, check the current opening hours.

Stud farm and family pool

Demonstrations, presentations and stud farm shows are held throughout the year at the Schwaiganger State Stud. If you are planning your trip around an event, check the specific dates. Carriage rides and horse-drawn sleigh rides are also offered at the stud farm; confirm their current availability in advance.

Ohlstadt Family Pool has a combined swimming and non-swimming pool, a children’s paddling pool, a 12,000-square-metre sunbathing lawn, a children’s playground and a beach volleyball court. It brings together swimming and play options with space to spend time outdoors. For specific plans for a day at the pool, check the current opening hours and operating days.

The options can be clearly distinguished when planning your trip: the chapel and grinding mill connect local history with traditional crafts, the museum focuses on art, and each trail has its own destination and landscape. Consider which of these activities you want your stay to revolve around. For seasonal activities or the return journey by lift and bus, check the relevant schedules and availability.

Discover more destinations: Eschenlohe, Großweil, Ettal, Grainau, Oberau, Bad Kohlgrub, Wallgau, Mittenwald.

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