Hopferau: Technology History, Castle and Soapmaking

Hopferau offers several specific points of interest to help you choose a destination: Konrad Zuse’s work on the Z4 computer, the history of Hopferau Castle, a soap-making workshop and a Kneipp facility. The topics range from technology and architectural history to traditional crafts and a barefoot trail. This lets you choose the place based on the interests that matter to you during your stay.

Technology History and Hopferau Castle

Konrad Zuse lived and conducted research in Hopferau for almost three years. There, he brought his Z4 computer to working order. The connection with Hopferau thus encompasses both Zuse’s research and the development of the computer. Those interested in the history of technology will find a clearly identified place where this work took place.

Hopferau Castle was built as a hunting lodge in 1468. The year provides a specific historical reference point for the building’s history. Together with the story of Zuse, this gives you two distinct topics: the castle’s early history and the history of technology associated with research and the Z4 computer.

Soapmaking and Kneipp Facility

At Leovinus Naturkosmetik in Hopferau, Dietrich Zarnack makes soap. As a “glass” soap workshop, the business offers a look behind the scenes; you can watch the soap being made there. This means the focus is not only on the finished product, but also on how it is made.

In the hamlet of Heimen in Hopferau, there is a Kneipp facility with a barefoot trail. This local attraction complements the themes of history and traditional crafts with an activity centered on Kneipp and walking barefoot. If you are looking for suitable hotels in Hopferau, these varied interests can help you decide what kind of stay you want.

In the wider destination of Ostallgäu

The wider destination of Ostallgäu also offers its own landscape and cultural attractions. In the Ostallgäu district, the mountains in the southwest are part of the Vilser Gebirge, while those in the southeast belong to the Ammergebirge. At 2,082 metres, the Hochplatte is the highest mountain in Ostallgäu.

Ostallgäu has 32 local hiking routes that showcase special natural and local highlights. The Ostallgäu Cycling Region comprises regional routes that extend across the entire Ostallgäu. Each is 25 to 76 kilometres long, consistently signposted and has its own theme. When planning your trip, you can therefore choose between hiking routes connected with nature and local communities and themed cycling routes with specified distances.

Another regional highlight is Lake Forggensee. Covering more than 15 km², it is Bavaria’s fifth-largest lake and Germany’s largest reservoir. The Forggensee Cycle Route runs around the lake; during the summer season, Forggensee boat trips run regularly. This part of Ostallgäu therefore offers two distinct options: a cycling loop by the lake and seasonal trips on the water.

Neuschwanstein Castle has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 12 July 2025, together with Linderhof Palace, the King’s House on Schachen and Herrenchiemsee Palace. Neuschwanstein and Hohenschwangau royal castles can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Keep this requirement in mind when planning a visit to the castles.

Discover more destinations: Wald, Rückholz.

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