The Pöllat gorge in Hohenschwangau

The Pöllat gorge in Hohenschwangau near Füssen is a popular destination in the immediate vicinity of the world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle. Named for the gorge is the Pöllat, an circa 10 Kilometers long torrent in the Ammergebirge, which flows through the gorge. About 90 Meters above the Pöllat gorge runs the Marienbrücke, which allows fantastic views.

The Pöllat gorge in Hohenschwangau is surrounded by rugged rock walls and enjoyed great popularity at the time of Maximilian II and his son Ludwig II. It is a beautiful piece of nature and an attractive excursion destination. The highlight of the picturesque gorge is a 45 Meter high waterfall, which is an impressive natural spectacle, especially after precipitation. From the gorge you can also observe several small waterfalls. The Pöllat, the eponymous wild stream that flows through the gorge, has a length of approx. 10 kilometers and is formed by the confluence of several spring streams near the Jägeralpe at an altitude of 1430 metres. Through the Pöllat gorge leads a paved path, which is highly worthwhile and allows for grandiose views. Even more dreamlike views can be obtained, however, from the Marienbrücke, which the Pöllat gorge at a height of about 90 metres over.

From the Marienbrücke you have an unforgettable view of Neuschwanstein Castle and the surrounding mountain world. The bridge named after Queen Marie was originally built in the year 1845 created by Maximilian II. as a wooden riding walkway. In year 1866 His son, the fairytale king Ludwig II, had this bridge replaced by a filigree iron structure. 1984 The Marienbrücke was restored, but the railings are still faithfully preserved. Those who stay in or around Hohenschwangau should not miss a trip to the Pöllat gorge and also enjoy the unforgettable views from the Marienbrücke.

A trip to the Pöllat gorge is also wonderful for families with children, as the climbs are not too difficult and the little ones can let off steam on the brook of the Pöllat to their heart's content. A possible hike through the Pöllat gorge can be started from the parking lots in the center of Hohenschwangau. From there lead beautiful, signposted paths to the access path to the gorge. After admiring the beautiful nature and the roaring waterfalls, you go a stepped climb up the mountain to the Marienbrücke. In the immediate vicinity is the access path to Neuschwanstein Castle, which is open daily and of course on such an excursion can be visited. The magnificent structure reminiscent of an imposing medieval castle from the outside is opulently furnished and is one of the most famous sights in Germany. It was between 1869 and 1886 Built on behalf of the fairytale king Ludwig II and is regarded throughout the world as a symbol of Romanticism. Every year more than one million people visit the castle. In year 2007 It even reached the finals in the election to the new seven wonders of the world. Directly opposite Neuschwanstein Castle is Hohenschwangau Palace, built in the style of the neo-Gothic, in the Ludwig II. He spent much of his childhood and youth. The romantic residential palace is also very worth seeing.

Very well you can reach the Pöllat gorge in three to five hours walk from the mountain station of the Tegelbergbahn downhill. However, this route is quite challenging and therefore only practiced hikers recommended. The Tegelbergbahn first goes up to the summit, from where you can enjoy magnificent views over the Allgäuer Königswinkel. Over the so-called Gratweg you then walk to the Marienbrücke and further down to the Pöllat gorge. If you want to combine the magnificent views and nature impressions of the Pöllat gorge with sightseeing and a lot of culture, the "Three Castles Way" is ideal for you. It shall: 7 Kilometer long themed trail leads from the parking lot in Hohenschwangau through the Pöllat gorge to the castles Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau. Then we continue around the picturesque Schwansee up to the Kalvarienberg, from which great views offer, to the Hohe Schloss in Füssen. The landmark of the city on the Lech already impresses from the outside with its impressive illusion paintings on the facades and also the halls of the building are highly worth seeing. The Hohe Schloss is considered one of the best preserved medieval castles in Bavaria and was once the home of the bishops of Augsburg.

Whether in the form of an interesting hike to the attractive castles of the region or simply as an excursion destination – the beautiful Pollat gorge in Hohenschwangau should be seen. It offers great nature impressions and great views. Ludwig II and his father Maximilian II already loved to stay in the Pöllat gorge. Unforgettable is a passage across the Marienbrücke in 90 meters above the gorge. From it you have the best view of the famous Neuschwanstein Castle.