The Jägersteig Trail and the places of remembrance at Edlhoffeld show how hiking and local history can be explored during a stay in Erlau. The hiking trail begins in Obernzell; Erlau adds historical sites, memorials and distinctive buildings. When planning, both the time needed for the route and the individual places in Erlau are relevant.

Jägersteig Trail: route and return journey

The Jägersteig is a 6.5-kilometre, moderate-difficulty point-to-point hiking trail from Obernzell and takes about two hours. After approximately five kilometres, it passes the main road above Erlau. This time estimate gives you a guide for the hike itself: if you also stop in Erlau, plan for this visit separately. There are inns in the village, as well as a stop on the Bahnbus line for a possible return journey to Obernzell. Check the timetable for your hiking day before planning a return trip by bus.

Edlhoffeld: battle history and natural monument

Edlhoffeld, in the district of Erlau, was the site of a battle in 1367 between rebellious citizens of Passau and the army of the Prince-Bishop of Passau. At Edlhoffeld, beside the lime trees, there is a restored wayside cross and a bench for resting; the condition of the bench may change. An old lime tree at Edlhoffeld near Erlau is a natural monument. The field’s historical significance and its named memorial and natural features offer different points of interest for visitors.

Village centre, castle and church

A bust of Adalbert Stifter stands in the centre of Erlau, by the Erlau Bridge. It was moved there from the overgrown memorial site in Erlauer Leithe. Krempelstein Castle rises above Erlau; its prominent location makes it a landmark of the village.

Erlau has had a Catholic church since 1957; in parish terms, the village belongs to Obernzell. These are two distinct aspects of church affiliation: the church in the village and its parish affiliation. Beside the branch church in Erlau stands a monument consisting of a granite column topped by a wayside shrine and a bronze cross.

Culture in the wider destination of Obernzell

In the wider destination of Obernzell, Obernzell Castle was expanded in the 16th century from a simple castle into a representative Renaissance palace. The Bavarian Danube Region Museum in the castle displays around 500 objects on the cultural history of the Danube across approximately 800 square metres; it opened on 17 July 2025. Also in Obernzell, visitors can discover the “Sculptures of Silence” on an art walk. The layout of Obernzell’s historic market square dates back to the 13th century; in the 19th century, it was redesigned in the Inn-Salzach style, which has been preserved to this day. In the 17th century, Obernzell Castle temporarily served as the seat of government for the Prince-Bishops of Passau after their residence burned down.

For the wider travel overview: Obernzell.