Unterjoch: Sunny Plateau, Church Art and Winter Trails

Unterjoch lies on a sunny plateau 1,013 metres above sea level, nestled in the Allgäu Alps and surrounded by mountains. During a morning walk towards Oberjoch, an expansive sea of white mist may occasionally appear between the mountains, with a view towards Hindelang. This striking landscape is one possible morning sight; the mountain scenery defines the village regardless.

Landscape, Farming and Church Art

Twenty mountain farms around Unterjoch still actively cultivate the land. The farmers are primarily engaged in livestock farming and dairy production. Along with its high-altitude setting, the farmland is therefore part of the landscape around the village.

The parish church of the Holy Trinity in Unterjoch is Baroque in essence. Its furnishings include a fresco depicting the Nativity and a carved group of the Holy Trinity from the circle of Johann Georg Bschorer. There are also High Baroque sculptures and a Christ in the Dungeon from the workshops of Melchior Eberhard in Hindelang, probably created around 1750. The fresco, carved group and sculptures give the church a rich artistic character.

A local custom is also tied to a specific place: during the May Festival, the maypole is raised in the centre of Unterjoch.

Trails and Activities in Different Seasons

For outings with young children, the local tourist information office describes the hiking trails and cycling routes in Unterjoch as almost flat and particularly suitable. Another activity is the Unterjoch Village Rally, which starts at the village car park. Check the materials before taking part locally.

In winter, the Dwarf Trail starts at the Obergschwend car park in Unterjoch and leads through the snow-covered landscape. The walk takes about an hour. In winters with reliable snow, cross-country ski trails and winter hiking trails also run from Unterjoch to the neighbouring Tannheimer Tal in Austria. This offers several different options: a winter trail with an approximate walking time, as well as cross-country ski and winter hiking trails with a named destination in Tyrol.

Another route is the Zinken Circuit. It passes the Upper and Lower Schwandalpe, where the Wertach rises, before reaching Unterjoch and continuing to Jungholz in Tyrol. If you plan to take this circuit, check trail conditions in advance.

Regional Culture in the Wider Destination of Bad Hindelang

The wider destination of Bad Hindelang also has a cultural connection to the landscape: the high-alpine Allgäu alpine farming culture in Bad Hindelang has been recognised by UNESCO. Three hammer mills are still in operation in Bad Oberdorf. There, hydropower drives the heavy hammers, grinding stones and bellows. If you are considering visiting the mills, check their operating status before planning your visit.

Cultural attractions in Bad Hindelang also include the Carriage Museum, the local history museum, and historic churches and chapels. If planning a specific visit, check the access information for the place in question. These regional cultural destinations are distinct from Unterjoch’s local church and landscape.

Discover more destinations: Bad Oberdorf, Vorderhindelang

Go to the main travel overview: Bad Hindelang.