Hopferau combines technology history with craftsmanship: Konrad Zuse lived and conducted research here for almost three years, bringing his Z4 computer to working condition. Other attractions include Hopferau Castle, a soap manufactory where visitors can learn about its work, and a Kneipp facility with a barefoot path in the district of Heimen. This gives you a choice of local travel themes: history, production and a Kneipp experience. The wider Ostallgäu destination complements this local perspective with its own landscape, cycling, hiking and cultural themes.
Konrad Zuse and the Z4 Computer
Konrad Zuse lived and conducted research in Hopferau for almost three years. There, he brought his Z4 computer to working condition. In this story, his place of residence, research and technical achievement are all connected. This is a clear local highlight for technology enthusiasts; the castle and soap manufactory offer other perspectives on Hopferau.
Castle History and Soapmaking
Hopferau Castle was built as a hunting lodge in 1468. Its year of construction provides a specific architectural connection to local history, alongside Zuse’s technology history. At Leovinus Naturkosmetik in Hopferau, Dietrich Zarnack makes soap. As a “glass” soap manufactory, the business offers a glimpse into its work: visitors can watch him making soap. This brings different ways of engaging with the area together—the history of a castle and of Zuse, as well as a look at a craft in practice.
Kneipp Facility in the District of Heimen
Hopferau’s district of Heimen has a Kneipp facility with a barefoot path. It adds a more physical focus to the local attractions, distinct from the castle’s history or soapmaking. You can shape your stay around different interests: technology and architectural history, insights into soapmaking, or the Kneipp facility in Heimen.
The Ostallgäu as a Wider Regional Destination
In the wider Ostallgäu destination, the mountains in the southwest of the district are part of the Vilser Gebirge, while those in the southeast belong to the Ammergebirge. At 2,082 metres, the Hochplatte is the highest mountain in the Ostallgäu. If you would like to hike in the Ostallgäu, you can choose from 32 local routes showcasing special natural and local attractions.
The Ostallgäu Cycling Region includes regional routes throughout the Ostallgäu. They are signposted along their entire length, range from 25 to 76 kilometres, and each has its own theme. The theme and stated distance provide practical guidance when choosing a cycling tour. The Forggensee Cycle Loop runs around the lake. Covering more than 15 km², Forggensee is Bavaria’s fifth-largest lake and Germany’s largest reservoir.
During the summer season, Forggensee boat cruises run regularly. If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking the current timetable. There is also a wider regional attraction for culture enthusiasts: since 12 July 2025, Neuschwanstein Castle, together with Linderhof Palace, the Royal House at Schachen and Herrenchiemsee Palace, has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau can only be visited as part of a guided tour.
Discover more destinations: Rückholz, Wald.
Go to the overview of the wider destination: Seeg.
