In Metten, you can plan your stay around two main themes: monastic history and gardens, or cycling and hiking trails and outdoor activities. First consider whether culture and garden design or active time outdoors will be the deciding factor for your trip; a guided tour should also be included in your plans if you want to visit the Baroque Library.
Monastery Gardens and Baroque Library
The Prelate’s Garden is situated west of the monastery grounds. It was laid out on the site of the abbey’s former hop garden and opened in 2007. To the south of the Baroque garden section is an open garden, set below ground level by stone seating steps and planted with native fruit tree varieties. The two garden areas differ mainly in their connection to the site’s history: the Prelate’s Garden recalls the former use of the abbey grounds, while the southern garden is defined by its sunken layout, seating steps, and native fruit trees.
The Baroque renovation and design of the library at Metten Abbey were commissioned between 1720 and 1722. The Baroque Library is open only as part of a guided tour. Tours take place Tuesday to Saturday at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., and on Sundays and public holidays at 3 p.m. Check the schedule directly with the abbey before your visit, as tour times and closures may change.
Outdoor Pool and Exercise Trail
During the 2023–2024 project period, the existing outdoor pool run by the Metten market town was converted into an inclusive natural outdoor pool. The exercise trail at Eichenhain was set up on a green space or playground on the edge of the “Kälberweide” residential area and includes fitness equipment and quiet areas.
Cycling and Hiking Trails from Metten
Metten is a starting point for many cycling and hiking trails, including routes away from the Danube. The Via Nova pilgrimage route is one of the long-distance cycling routes that passes through Metten. The Via Nova through the Bavarian Forest is a cycling and hiking route for which Metten is named as a starting point. The seventh stage of the Danube Panorama Trail is a specific section running from Metten to Deggendorf; it follows the river throughout. The many trails leave you with plenty of options, while this stage offers a clearly defined section with a named destination and a riverside route. Check local conditions before setting out.
Also in Deggendorf: Landscapes and Castle Ruins
In the wider Deggendorf travel region, the Deggendorf district stretches from the heights of the Bavarian Forest across the Danube landscape, including the Isar estuary, to the rich colors of the Gäuboden plain, and lies between 200 and 1,150 meters above sea level. Natternberg Castle Ruins can be reached via footpaths from three sides. From there, the view extends across the Gäuboden plain and into the Bavarian Forest. Winzer Castle Ruins is noted for its magnificent view of the Danube Valley. The viewpoints are quite different: Natternberg combines views across the Gäuboden plain and the Bavarian Forest with access from three sides, while Winzer is noted for its view of the Danube Valley.
Discover more destinations: Auerbach, Schöllnach, Hengersberg, Bernried, Osterhofen, Plattling, Offenberg, Lalling.
Back to the main travel overview: Deggendorf.
