Why the Allgäu?
The Allgäu combines gentle pre-Alpine scenery with real summit experiences. Between Kempten, Füssen and Oberstdorf you’ll find more than 40 marked long-distance hiking and cycling trails, plus classics such as Neuschwanstein Castle, the Breitachklamm gorge and the Alpsee lake. Unlike many Alpine regions, the Allgäu is well set up for non-mountaineers too: cable cars whisk you effortlessly up the Nebelhorn or Tegelberg.
Best time to visit
| Period | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| June – September | Hiking, swimming lakes, cable cars – peak season, book early |
| October | Golden autumn, fewer crowds, ideal conditions for photography |
| December – February | Skiing in Oberstdorf/Kleinwalsertal, winter hiking |
| April – May | Low season with good prices, meadows in bloom |
The most beautiful spots
Füssen & Schwangau
World-famous thanks to Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Tip: reserve Neuschwanstein tickets online well in advance – in season they usually sell out on the day.
Oberstdorf
Germany’s southernmost town and the base for the Breitachklamm gorge, the Nebelhorn and the Kleinwalsertal. Car-free centre, excellent infrastructure for hikers.
Alpsee & Grosser Alpsee
Two of Bavaria’s cleanest swimming lakes. The Grosser Alpsee near Immenstadt is ideal for sailing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Where to stay
Holiday apartments and family-run hotels dominate in the Allgäu. For peak season (July/August, Christmas) you should book 3–6 months ahead.
See hotels in the Allgäu* Find holiday rentals*Activities & tours
Popular activities include guided hikes, the royal castles tour and tandem paragliding from the Tegelberg. Many tours can be booked online in advance – well worth it in high season.
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