Tannhausen combines traces of early settlement and late Gothic architecture with trails through diverse landscapes. When looking for a holiday apartment, visitors can choose from several highlights: nature watching, scenic views, history and a long pilgrimage tradition. The specific trails and sights make it easy to decide which of these you would like to shape your stay.
History and architecture
Tannhausen was first mentioned in a document in 1100. Stone finds and burial mounds point to prehistoric settlements dating from the Hallstatt period. The town’s historical roots therefore go back considerably further than its first written mention.
St. Luke’s Parish Church is a late Gothic building whose origins date back to the 15th century. Its 46-metre-high tower was completed in 1479. The Catholic parish church is considered a remarkable late Gothic complex in the style of Stephan Weyrer of Nördlingen. Tannhausen Castle is another historic local landmark: the manor house stands at the entrance to the village, near the Sechta.
Views and landscape
At the Bergheim Reservoir viewpoint, you’ll find an information board, seating and a viewing platform. From there, the view stretches towards Dinkelsbühl, Hesselberg, Ipf and Baldern Castle. Another viewpoint is a seating area on the Green Trail near the Lias escarpment, where the panorama extends towards Franconia. The two spots offer different perspectives: one looks out over the named natural and cultural landmarks, while the other offers a wide panorama towards Franconia.
The landscape also includes biotopes and protected areas within the Tannhausen land consolidation area, created through nature conservation measures. Those planning to spend time outdoors will therefore find not only viewpoints here, but also a tangible connection to landscape management and nature conservation.
Trails and pilgrimages
The STAUNE Trail is an eight-kilometre biodiversity trail passing through eight different habitats. At eight stops, information boards or interactive features introduce topics such as heathland, orchards, water and hedgerows. You can start the trail in Tannhausen, and places to stop for refreshments are available in all three participating municipalities. The route thus combines a set distance with a variety of nature-related themes along the way.
The Green Trail is intended for cyclists, hikers and anyone seeking relaxation in the rural landscape. Together with the STAUNE Trail, it offers a choice between an eight-kilometre route focused on biodiversity and a trail that is also intended for cycling. A seating area near the Lias escarpment adds a viewpoint to the Green Trail.
An annual walking pilgrimage of about 40 kilometres leads from Tannhausen to the pilgrimage church of Maria Brünnlein near Wemding; it has been held since 1851. Another pilgrimage, in honour of Father Philipp Jeningen, takes place on the first Saturday in May and leads to Schönenberg. The distinction between the two dates is important: for the pilgrimage to Maria Brünnlein, the starting point, approximate walking distance and annual schedule are specified; for the pilgrimage to Schönenberg, the recurring date and dedication are given.
Practical information
For road travel, the German Limes Road offers a geographical point of reference: it runs along State Road 1076 through Tannhausen towards Dinkelsbühl and Mönchsroth. Tannhausen also has a municipal barbecue area with a shelter above the sports and leisure centre at the western entrance to the village. Registration is required to use it.
Discover more destinations: Rosenberg, Rainau, Gschwend, Neresheim, Täferrot, Kirchheim am Ries, Bartholomä, Aalen.
Return to the overview of destinations: Ostalbkreis.
