Alps by Design
🇩🇪 Bavarian Alps

Oberstdorf

The Allgäu's southernmost town — big hiking and ski-jump fame.

At the very bottom of Germany, Oberstdorf is the Allgäu's hub: a car-light resort town ringed by some of Bavaria's highest peaks, with the Nebelhorn and Fellhorn cable cars, the thundering Breitachklamm gorge, and a famous ski-jumping arena. It's the best base for serious hiking in the German Alps.

How it scores

Scenery
Food scene
Romance
Family-friendly
Hiking
Value for money

Best for

  • Hikers
  • Families
  • Active travelers
  • Summer and winter

Who should skip it

  • Travelers wanting a city
  • Luxury seekers

Signature experiences

  • The Nebelhorn cable car and the Allgäu high trails
  • The Breitachklamm, Germany's deepest gorge
  • The ski-jump arena and the Heini-Klopfer hill

Biggest mistake

Underrating the hiking — Oberstdorf is one of the best trail bases in Germany; come with boots.

Worth the splurge

A wellness hotel and a guided Allgäu high-route day.

Not sure where to start?

Take two minutes to find the Alps base that actually fits your trip — then we'll send the route to match.

Or get the free 7-day starter route: