Explore Rottenbuch through its monastery history and the Alpine foothills: the monastery circular trail explains the layout of the Augustinian Canons’ monastery, while the Pfaffenwinkler Milk Trail offers a different focus with interactive stations. For planning purposes, it helps to distinguish clearly between the two: one is a tour that can start at any point, while the other is a 4.2-kilometre loop for which you should allow at least two hours.
Monastery complex and church: several layers of history
On 18 numbered panels, the Rottenbuch Monastery Circular Trail explains the monastery complex, including existing and demolished buildings and how they were used. Since the tour can start at any point, you are not tied to a designated starting station. The panels thus introduce different parts of the complex and their former functions.
The former monastery church, now the parish church of the Nativity of Mary, combines Gothic architecture with an earlier history: it was built in the 15th century on the foundations of a three-aisled Romanesque cross basilica and has a detached bell tower. Its Rococo design was created between 1737 and 1746 by the Wessobrunn artists J. Schmuzer and son, Matthäus Günther, and F. X. Schmädl. Notable features include valuable stuccowork, colorful frescoes, elaborate altars and wooden sculptures. Its architectural history and furnishings thus represent clearly distinct historical layers.
The FrauenbrĂĽnnerl pilgrimage chapel adds a smaller architectural feature. The octagonal building dates from 1708, while the Madonna in the chapel dates from the 14th century. In contrast to the Nativity of Mary, this chapel brings together a building from the early 18th century and a much older image.
Hiking with different time commitments
The Pfaffenwinkler Milk Trail has ten interactive experience stations and is laid out as a 4.2-kilometre loop. Allow at least two hours. The route is also suitable for small children and strollers, making it easy to combine the stations with a standalone outing. One of the stations is at Schönegger Käsealm, where you can stop for milk and cheese products. If you plan to take a break there, it is best to check current opening hours in advance.
Other hiking routes that pass directly through Rottenbuch include the King Ludwig Way, the Ammergau Alps Meditation Trail and the Munich Way of St. James. Alongside the loop described in detail, these routes offer further options in the area to consider when making your choice.
Moraine hill country and road connection
Rottenbuch covers an area of 31.5 km² in the varied moraine hill country of the Alpine foothills. Its churches and monastery buildings are thus set in a landscape that also lends itself to walks and hikes. Culture and outdoor activities are two distinct focuses to consider when choosing your outings.
The Echelsbach Bridge also offers a specific point of interest in the landscape: built in 1929, it spans the 76-metre-deep Ammerschlucht gorge. The bridge lies along Federal Highway 23 between Peiting and Oberau. The B23 forms part of an important north–south route via Oberammergau and Garmisch-Partenkirchen, continuing to Austria, the Brenner Pass and Italy. If you plan to use this road connection for your journey, it is worth checking the latest road and traffic information.
Discover more destinations: Böbing, Wielenbach, Polling, Weilheim in Upper Bavaria, Huglfing, Wessobrunn, Hohenpeißenberg, Bernbeuren.
Go to the regional travel overview: Weilheim-Schongau.
