There are places in Europe where nature doesn’t just show its beauty—it shows its power. The Breitachklamm in southern Germany is one of them. Carved by the Breitach River over thousands of years, this gorge near Oberstdorf is both breathtaking and humbling. Sheer rock walls rise above rushing waters, and every turn of the trail makes you pause for a moment longer than expected.
If you’re planning a trip to Bavaria or looking for a day trip near Oberstdorf and Kleinwalsertal, the Breitachklamm should be on your list. In this complete guide, you’ll find everything you need: how to get there, what to expect, the best times to visit, and tips from personal experience that will make your journey memorable.
The Story Behind Breitachklamm
Breitachklamm isn’t just another hiking stop—it has a fascinating history. The gorge was first made accessible to visitors in the early 1900s, thanks to local pastor Johannes Schiebel, who envisioned opening it to the public. Before that, the gorge was considered dangerous and was avoided by most locals.
Today, it’s one of the deepest and most impressive gorges in Central Europe, stretching about 2.5 kilometers with cliffs rising up to 150 meters high. Walking through it, you can hear the river echo between the rock walls while tiny waterfalls trickle from above. The combination of history and raw natural force makes it more than just a tourist attraction—it’s a place where you feel the connection between humans and nature.
How to Reach Breitachklamm
Reaching Breitachklamm is fairly straightforward.
- By Car: If you’re driving, set your GPS to Tiefenbach, a small village near Oberstdorf. There’s a well-marked parking lot near the gorge entrance. From Munich, it’s about a two-hour drive, while from Stuttgart, you’ll need closer to three.
- By Public Transport: If you prefer buses and trains, take the train to Oberstdorf, then hop on a bus that takes you directly to the gorge entrance. The public transport system in this region is efficient and easy to navigate, especially in summer when more connections are available.
- From Kleinwalsertal: Another popular route starts from Austria’s Kleinwalsertal and hikes toward the gorge. This way, you get a longer walk through alpine meadows before entering the dramatic rock walls of the Breitachklamm.
Tip: If you’re visiting during peak season (summer or Christmas holidays), arrive early in the morning. The parking lot fills up quickly, and the trail can get crowded.
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Tickets and Opening Hours
The Breitachklamm is managed as a paid attraction, and the entrance fee goes toward maintaining the safe paths and infrastructure.
- Entrance Fee: Around €6–7 for adults, and reduced rates for children, students, and groups.
- Opening Hours: Typically open year-round, from morning until early evening. Hours may vary slightly depending on the season, so checking ahead is smart.
If you’re traveling as a group, ask about family or group tickets, which can save you a bit of money.
The Trail Through the Gorge
The trail is completely safe, well-marked, and offers stunning views at every turn. The route follows a wooden walkway with bridges, tunnels, and platforms built into the rock walls. It generally feels like an adventure, but it is manageable for most people. The gorge trail is around 2.5 kilometers round trip, and you can finish it in just one point 5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace. It allows time for photos and breaks.
Some of the best highlights of the trail include rock walls up to 150 meters tall, waterfalls, and swirling rapids, alongside deep turquoise pools and tunnels. You can also find information boards along the way explaining the history, geology, and wildlife of the gorge.
To make the most of the best lighting, you must visit in the early morning or late afternoon. The gorge is basically shady, so a camera with good low-light performance helps. You should always look for spots where sunlight hits the mist; it creates magical photos.
Beyond the Gorge?
Do you want to do way more than just a Gorge walk? Well, there are things to do in Breitachklamm like Walserschanz Trail, Loops around the gorge, and offer wider views. And Panorama Trail – Leads to scenic viewpoints overlooking the cliffs. The trails basically pass through the forest meadows and the charming Alpine scenery.
On-Site Facilities
There are several toilets near the entrance, and you can also visit the souvenir shops for gifts, books, and postcards. You can just bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in one of the nearby open areas.
When to Visit Breitachklamm
1. Spring and Summer
Spring and summer, from April to October, are popular times to visit, not just for hiking in Breitachklamm, but also to enjoy the whole area.
The gorge is full of water from melting snow. The surroundings are covered in greenery and wildflowers. It’s just great for combining with longer hikes; you can visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds.
2. Autumn
The autumn season is between October and November. The gorge becomes completely quiet and peaceful.
Leaves turn golden and orange, and the contrast with the dark rock is stunning. It’s a good time for those looking to avoid tourists and also enjoy the gorge in a more relaxed way.
3. Winter
Winter completely transforms Breitachklamm into a frozen fairy tale. The waterfall freezes into the sculptures, and snow dusts the Cliff. The trail might be shorter in winter for safety. You can also enjoy special evening lights as they are added sometimes.
The atmosphere is calm and cold. But during the winter season, you need to ensure that you bring enough warm clothes and non-slip boots with good grip. Always check the weather and website before visiting. Torchlight hikes happen typically between Tuesdays and Fridays, from 3rd January to late February 2025, starting at 7, lasting 90 minutes, with tickets released the same day online after weather confirmation.
Tips for the Best Experience
From personal visits and advice shared by locals, here are a few things that can make your trip smoother:
- Wear sturdy shoes – While the path is secure, it can be slippery, especially in wet conditions.
- Bring cash – Some facilities near the gorge may not accept cards.
- Plan extra time – Don’t just walk the gorge and leave. Combine it with a hike in the surrounding Kleinwalsertal valley or a visit to Oberstdorf.
- Photography tip – The gorge is often shaded, so set your camera for low-light conditions or bring a tripod if you’re serious about photos.
- Stay nearby – Spending a night in Oberstdorf or Kleinwalsertal allows you to visit the gorge early in the day before the crowds arrive.
When to Visit?
Morning before 10 AM or after 3:00 PM, as the crowds are really minimal. Weekdays are quieter than weekends, so consider visiting during the weekdays. If you’re planning to visit during winter or for torchlight hikes, you should book tickets early online.
Safety Rules
You should always stick to marked trails and follow the Breitachklamm guide. Avoid swimming or climbing. Dogs are allowed but must be on leash. If you plan to go on torchlight hikes, please note that dogs are not allowed. Watch your steps because surfaces can be wet or icy. Before heading out, always check the status page.
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Where to Stay and Nearby Attractions
You can base yourself in Oberstdorf, as there are a lot of hotels, guest houses, and restaurants here. Nearby Highlights:
Nebelhorn & Fellhorn cable cars with panoramic mountaintop views
Oberstdorf ski jump hill – cross-season landmark
Summer toboggan run
So above all, you need to know that Breitachklamm offers way more than just a walk; it offers an immersive sensory journey through centuries of geological history. Every season delivers its own wonders from roaring summer torrents to peaceful autumn hues and frozen winter artistry. The gorge is deeply accessible and safe, and family-friendly. Whether you are planning a quieter weekday visit or dreaming of a winter torchlight adventure, Breitachklamm promises natural beauty at every step.
Conclusion
Exploring the Breitachklamm isn’t just about seeing a natural wonder. It’s about feeling the power of water carving through stone, walking where history and geology come together, and realizing how small we are compared to the forces of nature.
Whether you visit in summer with the roar of melted snow or in winter when the gorge freezes into silence, this place leaves an impression that stays with you long after you’ve left.
So if you’re planning a trip to southern Germany, make time for the Breitachklamm. Bring good shoes, a camera, and a sense of curiosity. You’ll leave with memories that no guidebook can fully capture.
On average, it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to walk through the gorge at a relaxed pace. If you plan to take photos or combine the visit with a nearby hike, allow at least 2–3 hours.
Yes, the gorge is family-friendly. The paths are secure, and children often enjoy the dramatic scenery. Older visitors can also manage the trail, and there are benches along the way for resting.
Absolutely. In fact, winter is one of the most magical times to visit. The gorge is open year-round, and during colder months, you’ll see frozen waterfalls and icicles, creating a unique atmosphere. Always check opening hours and trail conditions before your trip.
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes since the path can be damp and slippery. A light rain jacket is also useful, even in summer, because of the dripping water and cool temperatures inside the gorge.
The gorge is just a short drive or bus ride from Oberstdorf. If you’re using public transport, take the train to Oberstdorf and then catch a local bus to the gorge entrance at Tiefenbach.
