Altmühltal-Panorama-Path | Eurohike Walking Holidays

200 Kilometers

From Gunzenhausen to Kelheim

15 stages

Each 12–27 km long

Altmühltal

Germany’s second-largest nature park

2.300

Markers with the yellow-red trail sign

Limes

UNESCO World Heritage Site with traces of the Romans

Route & Itinerary

The Altmühltal Panorama Trail stretches for around 200 kilometers through the Altmühltal Nature Park – from Gunzenhausen on Lake Altmühl to the Danube in Kelheim. Along the way, sweeping views open up over river bends, juniper heathlands, bright beech forests, and striking Jura rock formations. Castles, monasteries, and Roman relics accompany the trail, along with picturesque Franconian villages.

The route is clearly marked throughout, and while a moderate level of fitness is recommended due to regular climbs to higher elevations, the variety along the way – from quiet forest paths to sunlit plateaus and panoramic cliffs – keeps the journey engaging and enjoyable for both experienced hikers and those who prefer a more relaxed pace.

Hiking Bliss on Our Most Scenic Tours

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Hiking Bliss on Our Most Scenic Tours

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Questions and Answers about hiking the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path

Where does the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path start?

The Altmühltal-Panorama-Path starts in Gunzenhausen in the alpine foothills of Bavaria and runs through the Altmühl Valley to Kelheim.

When is the best time to experience the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path?

The best travel time for a hiking tour on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path is from April to October.

Who is hiking on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path suitable for?

The Altmühltal-Panorama-Path falls under our "walking" category. The route is technically simple and takes you over good hiking paths through the beautiful nature of Bavaria. With a good basic level of fitness, this hiking tour on the Altmühltal-Panorama Path will be an enjoyable experience.

How long is the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path and how much elevation gain does it include?

The total length of the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path is approximately 200 kilometers, with around 3,000–3,500 meters of ascent.

How long are the daily stages on the Altmühltal-Panorama Path?

On the daily stages of our hiking tours on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path, you cover between 14 and 35 kilometres per day. Note: The longer daily stages can usually be shortened or bridged by public transport.

What types of hotels or accommodations are included on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path?

On our hiking tours on the GR 221, you will stay in beautiful hotels and accommodations.

How does luggage transfer work with Eurohike?

Your luggage is collected from your accommodation each morning between 8 and 9 a.m. and will be waiting for you at the next hotel in the evening (between 4 and 7 p.m.), allowing you to hike completely relaxed, carrying only light day packs.

View from the Panoramaweg in the Altmühltal

The Most Beautiful Places Along the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path

Treuchtlingen

This spa town on Lake Altmühl makes the perfect starting point for the trail. Nestled between forests and juniper heathlands, it’s an ideal place to unwind, with opportunities for water sports, nature walks, and a leisurely stroll through town.

Pappenheim

“We know our Pappenheimers” – and here, the saying fits perfectly. The castle towers above the Altmühl River, which winds through the valley in graceful loops. Historic streets and the riverbank add a special charm to this picturesque town.

Eichstätt

A Baroque town that impresses at every turn: Willibaldsburg Castle, botanical gardens, and numerous churches shape its skyline. Set between Jura cliffs and juniper slopes, Eichstätt is a true highlight for both culture enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kipfenberg

Situated in the heart of Bavaria and surrounded by pristine nature, Kipfenberg offers castle ruins, juniper heathlands, and the Roman Museum that bring history vividly to life. Panoramic views over the Altmühl Valley unfold at every turn.

Beilngries

This charming town along the Altmühl is perfect for a leisurely stop. Its historic old town, scenic river views, and cozy cafés invite visitors to linger and soak in the atmosphere.

Riedenburg

Dubbed the “Pearl of the Altmühl Valley,” Riedenburg sits nestled among three castles. With half-timbered houses, inviting cafés, and breathtaking views over the river and valley, it’s a truly memorable stage along the trail.

The Most Scenic Stages on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path

Treuchtlingen – Pappenheim

14 Kilometers | ↗ 280 Meters | ↘ 290 Meters

The trail offers views of the Altmühl River as it winds through the valley, leading over the Teufelskanzel toward Pappenheim. From the Hollerstein viewpoint, you descend back to the river and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Altmühl to your destination, where the impressive castle — once home to the Imperial Hereditary Marshals—awaits.

Pappenheim – Mörnsheim

↔ 15 Kilometers | ↗ 390 Meters | ↘ 380 Meters

Following a high trail, you reach Solnhofen, the quarry town renowned for its limestone slabs and the discovery of fossils over 140 million years old. Shortly after, a breathtaking photo opportunity presents itself: the limestone cliffs of the “Twelve Apostles,” set amidst juniper heathlands. The route then continues into the Urdonau Valley, arriving in Dollnstein.

Mörnsheim– Eichstätt

↔ 25 Kilometers | ↗ 620 Meters | ↘ 650 Meters

Passing the geological monument “Burgsteinfelsen”, the path winds through forests and juniper heathlands before following a high path into Eichstätt. This Baroque bishop’s town, dominated by Willibaldsburg Castle, captivates visitors with its magnificent buildings, charming streets, and a uniquely enchanting atmosphere.

Eichstätt – Kipfenberg

↔ 26 Kilometers | ↗ 720 Meters | ↘ 740 Meters

The route passes Osterberg and the Roman fort Vetoniana before reaching the Buchenhüller Mammoth Cave. Along high trails above the Altmühl, enjoy sweeping views of the valley and striking rock formations. The path continues through the Gungolding juniper heath, over the Arnsberg slope, and past the Limes watchtower, culminating in Kipfenberg.

Kipfenberg – Beilngries

↔ 24 Kilometers | ↗ 540 Meters | ↘ 550 Meters

This stage begins with spectacular views over the Anlauter Valley. Kinding greets you with a formidable fortified church and inviting inns. The trail continues along high paths offering panoramic vistas of the Altmühl Valley, passing dramatic rock formations along the way. The Main-Danube Canal, Arzberg, and Beilngries provide further breathtaking sights before you descend to your destination in Beilngries.

Why Choose to Hike the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path?

Juniper Scent & Rock Views

Stroll through heath-covered slopes and past striking Jura cliffs.

Feel History

Knightly castles, Roman forts, and elegant Baroque residences

Franconian Lifestyle

Beer gardens, traditional Schäufele, and specialties from local breweries.

Pure Panorama

Sweeping, bird’s-eye views of the Altmühl River’s winding bends.

Fossils & Finds

Traces of prehistoric life in the region’s ancient quarries.

Travel Stories on the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path

Hiker sits with dog on a rock and enjoys the view in the Altmühltal

July 1, 2025

Team on Tour

Travel story: Hiking with dog in the Altmühltal

The moment has finally arrived: I'm setting off on my first Team Member on Tour hiking adventure! For the past year, I’ve had the pleasure of overseeing the Altmühltal Panorama Trail tour, and from the very beginning, I knew I wanted to experience this stunning route for myself. I chose this hike in Bavaria because it’s also dog-friendly — a big plus for me. My curiosity rubbed off on my parents too, so the three of us, along with our dog Burrito, head off to the lovely town of Weißenburg. After checking into our hotel, we explore this charming town in Middle Franconia and stroll through the picturesque historic center. We enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the traditional Franconian restaurants and start getting excited about the hiking tour ahead in Altmühltal Nature Park. In the following sections, I’d love to take you along on our journey from Treuchtlingen to Eichstätt.

Crossing the Alps on the E5 for families

March 10, 2025

Top Beginner Tours for Multi-Day Long-Distance Hiking

Long-distance hiking is more popular than ever. Across all directions, a diverse network of trails winds through Europe, offering a fantastic selection of routes for both leisurely hikers and ambitious trekking adventurers. The spectrum of long-distance trails ranges from breathtaking coastal paths and challenging Alpine crossings to meditative pilgrimage routes. Looking to start long-distance hiking? That’s a fantastic idea! In this article, we present the top beginner tours for multi-day long-distance hiking.

Panoramic views while hiking in the Altmühltal

Naturpark Altmühltal

December 9, 2020

Quality & premium hiking trails in Germany

Hiking tours with Eurohike are not only perfectly planned – from the travel documents, the maps or the carefully selected hotels and accommodation – but they also take you to the dreamiest places in Germany. For us at Eurohike, it is not only very important to lead you to the most beautiful places and dreamy hiking routes, the hiking paths should also be subject to a clear quality criteria. There are certified hiking trails in Germany that promise unlimited hiking pleasure and hiking quality at the highest level. With Eurohike you will experience perfect hiking quality and pure active pleasure in nature on your hiking holidays in Germany. You can now read all about the difference between quality hiking trails and premium hiking trails, what criteria these trails are subject to and what makes these routes so special on our blog.

July 27, 2020

Hiking in the nature reserves of Germany and Austria

National parks and nature reserves are an important habitat for plants and animals, and the Alpine region in particular offers a wide range of hiking options. We have therefore looked for the 5 most beautiful regions in Austria and Germany and put together hiking routes for you. Explore these impressive landscapes and collect unforgettable impressions.

February 10, 2020

Team on Tour

Exciting hiking days on the Altmühltal Panorama Trail

My first Eurohike hiking trip takes me to the beautiful Altmühltal. I have been able to take care of the hiking tour on the Almühltal Panorama Trail since March and am delighted that I now have the opportunity to finally get to know the hiking trail and the accommodations personally! I hit the road with one of my long-time friend from school. The suitcases and backpacks are packed, we are ready for four exciting days of hiking in the foothills of the Alps.

Maddie Pagenkemper with her dog on the Altmühltal Panorama Trail

October 1, 2018

Guests on Tour

Travelogue: Altmühltal-Panorama-Path

When I read that in 2012 the Altmühltal-Panorama-Path was crowned Germany’s most beautiful hiking path and considered one of the ‘Top Trails’ of Germany, I could not help but travel to the idolised Altmühltal and get an idea of Eurohike’s hiking holiday Altmühltal-Panorama-Path, 9 days. Instinctively I chose the second week in September where we were blessed with fabulous late-summer moments, asked my dad whether he fancied a father-daughter-trip and of course grabbed Barney, my four-legged hiking companion featuring a cold nose.

Altmühltal-Panorama-Path: Your Benefits with Eurohike

Perfectly organized hiking tours

In Eurohike hiking vacations, you enjoy that extra level of service and comfort. From start to finish, our Eurohike travel specialists plan and organize your active vacation, giving you even more time to enjoy your active getaway. During your hiking tour, you can focus worry-free on what truly matters: the joy of hiking with your loved ones.

Comprehensive guidance from our travel specialists

Our experienced travel specialists are available to assist you at any time, both during the selection of your tour and throughout the booking process. Your wishes and concerns are our top priority, ensuring that your journey becomes the most beautiful time of the year.

Well-prepared travel information and route descriptions

All guests receive a comprehensive information package with detailed walking maps and travel documents including tips and information on culture, cuisine, country and people - tailored to the respective region and requirements of the individual walking tour. Every year, we review the route meticulously, and continually develop new variations that provide even more insights into the land and culture.

Accommodations with feel-good factor

After a wonderful day of cycling, you will be welcomed in our carefully selected accommodations in the evening. We choose our accommodations with care and consideration, always with a focus on their special orientation towards active vacationers and opportunities for evening relaxation. You'll experience that extra level of comfort on our charming hiking tours, where you can enjoy even more feel-good facilities and an added touch of indulgence.

Hiking without luggage

With us, you'll enjoy the most comfortable form of active vacation. Eurohike transports your luggage to the next accommodation every day. Leave the hotel in the morning with ease, and by evening, your bags will already be waiting at the next lodging. Experience a completely carefree hiking adventure across Europe with our luggage transfer!

Personal on-site support

Our Eurohike original tours are characterized above all by the personal touch for which we have been known for many years. For our original tours, you will be personally welcomed by our team members at the arrival destination. In an informational meeting, all details about the tour and the itinerary will be explained. Our on-site team is also available for tips and recommendations.

Exploring the most beautiful routes with our on Tour-App

We invest a lot of time and effort in crafting our routes and meticulously review them regularly. Thanks to the Eurobike & Eurohike on Tour app, navigating the most beautiful cycling routes in Europe becomes child's play, ensuring you don't miss any of the highlights along the way.

Travelife-Certification

We are certified as a sustainable tour operator! Our green actions have been officially confirmed by Travelife - an international certification programme for sustainability management in the travel industry. We had to fulfil over 260 criteria in various areas: from environmental protection and energy-saving measures to emissions management and consumer protection.