The Bismarck Tower on Steppacher Berg and the Forest Discovery Trail near Hainhofen represent two different interests in Neusäß: local history and knowledge about nature. When planning, you can decide whether you are more interested in the history of a building or in exploring the forest and nature.
The history of the Bismarck Tower
The Bismarck Tower on Steppacher Berg near Neusäß was already a popular excursion destination on the outskirts of Augsburg in the past. After closing in 1958, it was restored between 1981 and 1983 by the Augsburg Recreation Area Association and the city of Neusäß. It reopened to the public on 26 March 1983. These dates put the restoration and reopening in historical context. If the tower is part of your plans, check the latest visitor information before arranging a specific visit.
Forest and nature on the Forest Discovery Trail
The Neusäß Forest Discovery Trail runs for around two kilometres through the municipal forest near Hainhofen. At 14 stations, it shares information about the forest and nature. The trail is aimed primarily at pupils in grades 3 and 4—a particular focus that clearly distinguishes this Neusäß attraction from the history of the Bismarck Tower.
A worksheet with questions and tasks is available to print for independent exploration. Check with the city whether the worksheet will be available on the day you plan to visit. Since access may vary depending on conditions and planned use, also check local notices before setting out.
Hotel and travel planning
When looking for a hotel in Neusäß, you can first decide whether the town itself, with its history and forest theme, will be your main focus, or whether you would like to consider more options in the wider Augsburg destination. The routes and activities there are separate regional options, not a substitute for Neusäß’s two distinct themes.
More options in the wider Augsburg destination
Regional routes also differ in length and theme. The LandArt Bonstetten art trail is a 5.65-kilometre circular hiking route; along the trail, artist Hama Lohrmann personally explains his sculptures. The three-kilometre meditation trail leads from Oberschönenfeld Abbey to Weiherhof, along the edge of the forest in the Schwarzachtal valley. The route lengths and themes give you a concrete basis for choosing between art and a meditation trail.
Cyclists can make use of an extensive, well-developed network of cycle paths in the Augsburg district. Those interested in further nature experiences will also find regular alpaca hikes and excursions through the nature park in the wider Augsburg destination, offered by Westwood Alpacas. The Stauden, Holzwinkel and Reischenau regions are part of Augsburg–Western Forests Nature Park.
Discover more destinations: Thierhaupten, Zusmarshausen, Gersthofen, Altenmünster, Scherstetten, Dinkelscherben, Gessertshausen, Lechfeld.
Return to the wider travel overview: Augsburg.
