Surrounded by soaring mountains in Germany’s far south, Oberstaufen is a historic health resort in Bavarian Swabia. It’s a popular destination for recreational pursuits in both the winter and summer months and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Oberstaufen also lies on the doorstep of the 1,834-metre-high Hochgrat and the cascade-filled Eistobel Nature Reserve.
Things to do in Oberstaufen
Gain insight into the local history at the Heimatmuseum, which occupies a traditional Allgäu farmhouse dating back to the 18th century. Among its exhibits are those detailing life for the stocking weavers who once lived here. You can relax in the jacuzzis and saunas of the Aquaria Erlebnisbad, see cheese being made at the Berghütte Alpe Ober-Hündle or coincide your visit with a performance at the Kurhaus Oberstaufen.
If you’re visiting in the winter months, you can take advantage of the region’s downhill skiing and snowboarding trails or explore along the Hädrich cross-country routes. Tobogganers will love the Unterlauch run of the Hochgratbahn Oberstaufen-Steibis while ice skaters can glide along the 600-square-metre rink.
A short drive north of Oberstaufen is the Eistobel Nature Reserve, which encompasses a spectacular gorge along the River Obere Argen. Follow the hiking trail that navigates the entire length of the gorge, passing its picturesque waterfalls, deep pools and massive boulders. During the winter months, several of the Eistobel’s waterfalls turn to ice, making for a particularly photogenic scene.
Getting around Oberstaufen
Oberstaufen is around 2.5 hours’ drive from Munich International Airport and is connected to the Bavarian capital by regular trains to the Oberstaufen railway station. Ski lifts travel up the surrounding slopes while the centre of Oberstaufen is small enough to explore on foot. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient way of accessing the Eistobel Nature Reserve.