Overlooking a bend in the River Lech, Schongau is an attractive town near the Bavarian Alps that has been in existence since the 13th century. It was an important commercial hub during the Middle Ages and remained prosperous until the discovery of America altered Europe’s trade routes. Today, it is one of the last major stops as you head south on Germany’s Romantic Road.
Things to do in Schongau
Spend an afternoon exploring the Altstadt Schongau, which is clustered with beautifully preserved, colourful buildings. In the heart of town is the Mariä Himmelfahrt, a Catholic church that was built in the 18th century on the foundations of its Romanesque and Gothic predecessors. The church is beautifully decorated with ceiling paintings by Matthäus Günther and a high altar crafted by Franz Xaver Schmädl.
For a dose of local history, pay a visit to the Stadtmuseum Schongau, which showcases artefacts dating back three millennia. It occupies a fusion of new and old buildings that include the former St. Erasmus Church. In addition to sacred artworks and archaeological findings, it is renowned for its coin collection reflecting the development of money from ancient times to the modern day.
On the other side of the River Lech is Schongauer Märchenwald und Tier Park, a family-friendly attraction that is based on the fairytales of the Brothers Grimm. Nestled in a beautiful forest, it comprises children’s play areas, a petting zoo filled with farm animals and a miniature railway. At the Restaurant Märchenwald, you can dine on Bavarian cuisine.
Getting around Schongau
Schongau is around an hour’s drive from Munich and 1.5 hours from Munich International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Schongau railway station and the centre of town can easily be explored on foot.