A volcanic vent designated as a Geopoint makes Aichelberg an interesting destination for anyone who would also like to explore the landscape from a geological perspective. The town lies on the northern edge of the Swabian Alb, at an elevation of 564 metres above sea level. Views, geological history and local history offer several different points of interest for a trip.
Volcanic landscape and views
The volcanic vent at Aichelberg has been designated a Geopoint since 2011. It represents activity by the Swabian Volcano during the Tertiary period, around 11 to 17 million years ago. Aichelberg and Turmberg are isolated former volcanic vents filled with basalt tuff, which shape the local landscape. As you explore the area, you will encounter a landscape whose features also tell a long geological story.
For views across the surrounding area, head to the Traufblicker. This viewpoint on Aichelberg features a panoramic information board and benches. From Aichelberg, views extend as far as Stuttgart Airport on the Filder plain and the Stuttgart TV Tower. Facilities may change; check before your visit if needed.
Another nature-related feature is the Walnut Tree Nature Trail in Aichelberg, which showcases twelve different varieties of walnut. This offers a different focus from volcanic geology and adds a specific look at walnut varieties to the range of options. If you are interested in the Turmberg circular trail, you can consider including this nature trail as a separate themed stop.
Plan your routes and travel
To reach the Turmberg circular trail by public transport, take the RE 5 or MEX 16 to Göppingen, then bus route 920 to Aichelberg, Bürgerhaus. The starting point is about a five-minute walk from the stop. Check the current timetable before travelling. A bus route also connects Aichelberg with Göppingen and Weilheim an der Teck. If travelling by car, direct access to the A8 is relevant; short road connections lead towards Stuttgart and Ulm.
This makes it possible to pair local points of interest with a practical travel choice: train and bus travel are described for the circular trail mentioned above, while the A8 provides a road connection towards both cities.
Historical landmarks
The local history can also be placed in context using two dates. The Counts of Aichelberg are first mentioned in historical records around 1210. Around 1350, the properties associated with them passed into the possession of the Counts of Württemberg. These two details mark different historical points: the first recorded mention of the counts and a later transfer of ownership.
More things to do in the Göppingen destination area
The wider Göppingen destination area offers another regional hiking option: the Löwenpfade. These are circular hiking trails that can be walked in either direction and are signposted and marked both ways. Routes range from 3 to 24 kilometres. Each starting point has an information board showing the route, elevation profile and sights along the way. The route length and elevation profile help you assess a hike using specific details.
For a different kind of outing, the Löwentrails in the district of Göppingen comprise four mountain bike circuits ranging from 16 to 30 kilometres. They are particularly suitable for beginners and e-mountain bikers. The hiking trails and mountain bike routes differ in activity and distance, so you can choose from the regional options according to your plans without confusing them with the local stops in Aichelberg.
Discover more destinations: Börtlingen, Rechberghausen, Adelberg, Süßen, Salach, Geislingen an der Steige, Mühlhausen im Täle, Böhmenkirch.
Back to the overview of the wider destination: Göppingen.
