Gottsdorf: Hiking, Cross-Country Skiing and St. James

When planning a trip to Gottsdorf, you can choose from a range of activities: hiking, the seasonal cross-country ski trail and St. James Parish Church, which is connected to the Way of St. James.

Compare hiking routes in Gottsdorf

Two routes offer different ways to explore the Donauleiten: the Schmugglerweg leads from Gottsdorf into the nature reserve, while the Ebensteinrunde passes through it directly to the Ebenstein rock.

The Ebensteinrunde near Gottsdorf is an easy 2.8 km hike, with a stated duration of 50 minutes. The Höhenbergrunde is a moderately difficult 4.3 km route with a stated duration of 1 hour and 30 minutes. Compared directly, the Ebensteinrunde is shorter and rated easier; according to the stated times, the Höhenbergrunde takes 40 minutes longer. Trail conditions can vary, so check them before setting out.

The Höhenbergrunde starts at the western entrance to Gottsdorf. Along the way, the Kaltenbrunn pilgrimage chapel offers a place to rest; this notable little gem lies in the middle of the forest. If you plan to start the loop at the trailhead, check the parking situation in advance, as parking availability may change. Access conditions at the chapel can also vary.

St. James Parish Church and the Pilgrimage Route

Built around 1450, St. James Parish Church is the district’s only Gothic church whose original fabric has been preserved without alteration. The Way of St. James from Český Krumlov to Kufstein passes through Untergriesbach; the section between Neustift im Mühlkreis and Passau runs through the area. On this section, St. James Parish Church in Gottsdorf is an important stop for pilgrims. St. James thus brings architectural history and the pilgrimage route together in one place.

Cross-Country Skiing and Other Activities

The cross-country ski trail in Gottsdorf starts at the sports ground. One section is usually groomed for skating; grooming depends on the weather and current forecasts. Treat the trail as a seasonal option and check the weather and current grooming conditions before setting out.

Alpaca walks are offered in Gottsdorf by “Alpakas am Jakobsweg.” Contact the provider for information and dates. If you would like to include this activity in your stay, you can check the dates directly with them.

In the wider destination of Untergriesbach

In the wider destination of Untergriesbach, the Danube Cycle Path follows the Danube through the municipality to the Austrian border at Jochenstein. The Danube–Moldau Cycle Path runs from Obernzell via Untergriesbach to Haidmühle. The Donauleiten nature reserve and the high plateaus around Untergriesbach offer opportunities for walks and hikes. A comparison within the wider destination of Untergriesbach highlights two aspects of its architectural heritage: St. James in Gottsdorf is the district’s only Gothic church whose original fabric has been preserved without alteration; the Late Gothic St. Michael’s Church in Untergriesbach is part of the listed market-square ensemble.

Go to the wider travel overview: Untergriesbach.