An unusual detail draws attention to Herdwangen-Schönach: the church in Aftholderberg stands on a watershed. Rainwater flows from one side of its roof into the Rhine, and from the other into the Danube. Other discoveries also offer a variety of highlights: architectural history and religious tradition, hiking together, cycling tours and a valuable wetland habitat. You can plan your stay around whether you are particularly interested in culture, outdoor activities or nature.
Churches, Grottoes and Art
On Ramsberg, St. Wendelin's Chapel incorporates structural elements from the high medieval castle complex of the Counts of Ramsberg and Pfullendorf, dating from the 11th century. In Großschönach, the church is dedicated to St. Anthony; it was built around 1384. The church in Aftholderberg is dedicated to St. Eulogius. Those interested in comparing architectural history will find different historical reference points and patron saints here.
In 1908, residents of Großschönach built a Lourdes grotto in the Ramsberger Tobel. The Lourdes grotto at Hüttenbrühl was built in 1890 and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Particularly in May, the Lourdes grotto in Großschönach draws many worshippers to services. Alongside the churches, the grottoes and their religious significance are therefore part of the area's cultural character. The Kleinschönach Art Hall adds to this cultural offering: it is a studio collective of various artists and has developed into a regional cultural center through its exhibitions and events.
Hiking and Cycling
The Linzgau Way of St. James is part of Herdwangen-Schönach's extensive hiking trail network. If you prefer hiking in a group, you can join the open “Tuesday Hikers”: the group meets every Tuesday afternoon from spring until late autumn and welcomes both locals and visitors. Details of upcoming meetings are published in the municipal bulletin; check it before joining.
For cycling tours, the traffic-calmed roads and cycle paths around Herdwangen-Schönach offer variety. Hiking and cycling are two distinct options to consider when planning your trip: hiking highlights the Linzgau Way of St. James and the regular group outings, while cycling focuses on the roads and cycle paths around the area.
Nature and Seasonal Events
In the Ruhestetter Ried nature reserve, wet meadows, sedge marshes and reed beds provide a valuable habitat. This focus on nature differs from the cultural discoveries and outdoor activities: here, the Ried's habitats take center stage. If you are weighing up culture, activities and nature for your stay, the area offers a distinct reason to include the landscape in your plans.
July may also be an interesting time to visit: every year in Aftholderberg, at the invitation of the St. Eulogiusverein Aftholderberg, a festival is held in honor of St. Eulogius, patron saint of horses, featuring a blessing of the horses and a festive church service. If you would like to include this festival in your plans, check the exact date in advance.
Discover more destinations: Aftholderberg, Kleinschönach, Leibertingen, Inzigkofen, Herbertingen, Pfullendorf, Hettingen, Schwenningen.
For the main travel overview: Sigmaringen.
