The Geigelstein Nature Reserve extends into the Achental valley and forms the heart of the mountain villages of Schleching and Sachrang. Nature and mountain scenery are therefore at the centre of a stay where trails, winter activities and cultural destinations can be combined in different ways.
Geigelstein, mountain hikes and trails
The nature reserve includes mountain forests, alpine meadows, mountain streams, dwarf pine scrub and rocky summit areas. These habitats are home to chamois, marmots and grouse. If you are interested in alpine landscapes, you will find both diverse natural areas and opportunities for mountain hikes on and around Geigelstein associated with Schleching.
One specific route is the family-friendly Schmugglerweg (Smugglers’ Trail). It runs from Schleching along the Tiroler Ache through the Entenlochklamm gorge to Kössen in Tyrol. Two suspension bridges span the narrowest point of the gorge and can only be reached on foot. Weather and maintenance may affect access, so check conditions before setting out.
Another way to choose your own focus while out and about is the Schleching Nativity Scene, Church and Chapel Trail. This circular valley route can be started or left at any point. The Tourist Information office in Schleching and the school are listed as parking options for the route. If you are arriving by car, check this information before your trip.
Winter and tour planning
In winter, Schleching has cross-country ski trails, ski touring routes and winter hiking paths. Which activity is suitable depends on snow conditions and seasonal operating conditions. The Achental hiking bus can also be useful for planning: it serves hiking destinations between Winklmoosalm and Geigelstein and supports point-to-point hikes that do not return to the same starting point. Check the timetable and conditions of use before your tour.
Churches and living traditions
The Streichenkirche of St. Servatius preserves wall paintings dating to around 1440, considered an exceptional example of medieval church art. The church is generally open to visitors daily; its main room is opened for services, events or guided tours. As opening arrangements may change, it is advisable to check before visiting.
The Church of St. Remigius in Schleching was built between 1735 and 1737 and is considered one of the most significant rural churches of the early Rococo period in the Alpine foothills. It can be visited daily. Here too, you should check opening arrangements before your visit.
In the district of Raiten, the pilgrimage church “Our Lady of the Seven Lime Trees” is an annual destination for a traditional-costume pilgrimage from the southern Chiemgau. Dates vary by season, so check the specific pilgrimage date in advance.
Regional cuisine and finding accommodation
You can find Schleching specialities in inns, grocery shops and directly from farmers. Selection and availability may vary by season and point of sale. This gives meal planning a local touch without requiring you to choose the same place for every day of your stay in advance.
When looking for hotels in Schleching, you can start by considering which themes you want to shape your stay: mountain hikes and nature, the Schmugglerweg, winter activities, or churches and traditions. This lets you begin your accommodation search with the purpose of your trip in mind. You can then fit the various destinations and activities around your plans and the season.
Discover more destinations: Mühlau, Surberg, Unterwössen, Traunstein, Siegsdorf, Taching, Kirchanschöring, Trostberg An Der Alz.
Back to the main travel overview: Traunstein.
