Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim
8.5miLength
1,099ftElevation gain
3.5–4hrEstimated time
Point to point
This route is stage 15—the final stage—of the Altmühltal-Panoramaweg, a long-distance trail in Bavaria. This segment leads from historic Essing along dramatic Jura cliffs through the Weltenburger Enge nature reserve to Kelheim. A major highlight is the detour to Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery in Bavaria. Hikers can cross the Danube by ferry before ascending to the iconic Liberation Hall (Befreiungshalle) on Mount Michelsberg, which offers expansive views over Kelheim. Overnight stays are available in guesthouses and hotels in Essing, at the abbey, or in Kelheim; wild camping is prohibited. Potable water is available in the towns and at the abbey tavern. Both locations are connected by bus to the train station in Saal an der Donau; additionally, excursion boats run through the Danube Gorge; schedules are found at https://www.bayern-fahrplan.de or https://www.bahn.de.
For the full route and all stages, see https://www.alltrails.com/lists/altmuhltal-panoramaweg - Official AllTrails List.
This text has been translated.
Part of a multi-day route
Altmühltal Panorama Trail
Top sights
Bienenkorb
Cliff
Kloster Trauntal bei Kelheim
Monastery
Altmühltal
Valley
Donaudurchbruch
Attraction
Kelt. Zangentor
Archaeological site
Michelsberg
Peak
Tatzlwurm
Attraction
Blautopf
Spring
Peter-und-Paul-Felsen
Peak
Räuberfelsen
Peak
Mittlere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Westliche Klausenhöhle
Cave
Untere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Altmühl Gate
Attraction
Obere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Top sights
Bienenkorb
Cliff
Kloster Trauntal bei Kelheim
Monastery
Altmühltal
Valley
Donaudurchbruch
Attraction
Kelt. Zangentor
Archaeological site
Michelsberg
Peak
Tatzlwurm
Attraction
Blautopf
Spring
Peter-und-Paul-Felsen
Peak
Räuberfelsen
Peak
Mittlere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Westliche Klausenhöhle
Cave
Untere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Altmühl Gate
Attraction
Obere Klausenhöhle
Cave
Popular times
When is the trail busiest?
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Top trails nearby
Frequently asked questions
What’s helpful to know about this trail?
Get to know this 8.5-mile point-to-point trail near Essing, Bavaria. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 3 h 36 min to complete. This is a popular trail for backpacking and hiking, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day. The best times to visit this trail are April through October.
What is the expected weather this week for Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Expected weather for Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim for the next 5 days is:
- Wed, September 23 - 62 degrees/clear
- Thu, September 24 - 61 degrees/clear
- Fri, September 25 - 67 degrees/clear
- Sat, September 26 - 71 degrees/clear
- Sun, September 27 - 74 degrees/clear
Where is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim located?
Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is a trail located in Essing, Bavaria, Germany.
How hard is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,099 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
What is the elevation gain for Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is considered a moderate hike that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,099 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Moderate trails often feature gradual climbs or obstacles like rocks or roots.
Is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim a point to point trail?
Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,099 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
How long is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is a point to point trail that covers 8.5 mi, with an elevation gain of 1,099 ft. It takes about 3.5–4 hr to complete. Point-to-point routes have a different starting point and endpoint. The length of the trail refers to one-way travel on this route. Don't forget to plan for transportation when exploring point-to-point routes!
Are dogs allowed on Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Dogs may be allowed on Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim. Be sure to check regulations before heading out.
When is the best time of year to hike Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim.
How busy is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
According to trailgoers, Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is usually somewhat busy. April to October is the most popular time of year to visit Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim.
Is backpacking allowed at Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Backpacking is allowed on Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim. Backpacking trails are typically longer and are often point-to-point trails. Camping accommodations vary, and can include campsites, dispersed camping, huts, or in-town accommodations. You should always double check if a permit is required.
Is Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim paved?
Yes, according to trailgoers, Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is partially paved.
Are there forests at Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim?
Yes, Altmühltal Panorama Trail Stage 15: Essing - Kelheim is a forest trail.
Last updated on September 22, 2026 at 10:17 pm GMT+0