Anyone who has traveled through the Pfaffenwinkler region may have already taken a look at the 988 m high mountain with its distinctive church, as it stands out from the otherwise flat landscape. But what makes this mountain a popular destination for tourists and what vision did the then Bavarian Elector Max III have, who made this place famous worldwide?

Hohenpeißenberg — gem in Pfaffenwinkel

The 988 m Hohe Peißenberg rises above the village of the same name in Pfaffenwinkel in Upper Bavaria, approx. 62 km from the Zugspitze village of Grainau. You can reach the mountain by car via the B23 Ettal/Oberammergau towards Peiting or via the B472 from Murnau. Hohenpeißenberg is also connected to the rail network, but you have to change trains in Weilheim. As soon as you arrive from the south, the houses with the pilgrimage church on the Hoher Peißenberg present themselves as a picture book ensemble. Once on the mountain, it quickly becomes clear to everyone why this mountain is so attractive — especially when the weather is nice.

Place of pilgrimage from 1514 to today

In 1514, the fame of the Hoher Peißenberg began with the construction of a chapel on the mountain. A ducal carver had a carved figure of the Mother of God brought there from the Schongau castle chapel. This figure quickly gained the reputation of a miraculous image and the pilgrimage began. As early as 1604, a first inn had to be built to accommodate and feed pilgrims. At the beginning of the 17th century, a second church (the pilgrimage church), which created the current double church. At its peak in the 18th century, up to 40,000 pilgrims came annually. Thousands of pilgrims are still drawn to this place every year, no wonder it is located on the Camino de Santiago and the pilgrimage church with its baroque high altar, reliefs and the chapel of mercy with the most beautiful rococo is impressive and worth seeing. Even the saying “Wer Wunder, Gnad und Gutthat will, zu Peißenberg hier finds vil! “is still known to many today. In addition to spiritual pilgrims, this is also home to all those who want to enjoy and experience the truly divine view of Bavaria's beauty.

Pure alpine panorama!

You can't imagine a more beautiful view: From the Hoher Peißenberg, visitors have a magnificent view to the north across the foothills of the Alps to the blue Ammersee. If visibility is good, it is 200 km to the south Alpine panorama, from the Benediktenwand via Karwendel and the Wetterstein with the towering Zugspitze to the Ammergau, Tannheimer and Allgäu mountains. A real treat for the eyes. For anyone who wants to guess the summits, an information board provides clarity. Well, recognized Zugspitze? What could be better than refining such a panorama with a culinary treat. The inn on the Hoher Peißenberg has a large terrace with excellent views and a good selection of dishes. People dine here in good company. In 1775, the Bavarian Elector Maximilian Joseph III stayed on the Hoher Peißenberg, who ensured that this place became internationally famous.

Hohenpeißenberg — a place for science and technology since 1780

In the 18th century, the Bavarian Elector Maximilian Joseph III came up with the groundbreaking idea of having an observatory set up here by the Rottenbuch monks and to carry out meteorological observations. On January 1, 1871, the weather observations, which have continued to this day, began. This makes the weather station standing here the first and oldest observatory in the world and is of worldwide importance due to uninterrupted records and one of the longest series of ozone measurements. International meetings are held here several times a year. And that's how the Hohe Peißenberg was on the world map, at least among meteorologists! Very well done Elector Max III!

If you want to find out more, you can learn more about the aspects of weather and climate on the weather trail with 10 different stations including an information pavilion.

Many reasons lead to the Hoher Peißenberg

Whether you come here for spiritual or meteorological interest, are on a hiking tour along the Camino de Santiago or the King Ludwig Way, or simply want to experience the alpine panorama or just enjoy a delicious meal — there are many good reasons to visit the Hoher Peißenberg. And once you're there, you should keep it as Elector Maximilian Joseph III once said: “Wanderer, look down at the valley here and the world opens up to your astonishing view of clouds and mountains. When you look up at the sky, the golden stars shine. ”

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