Klais: Roman Road and Historic Trails

When planning a trip, Klais combines a historical focus with routes for walking and cycling, as well as a winter cross-country skiing option. Different periods of history come together here: traces of Roman roads and the memory of a Benedictine monastery connected with Scharnitz. Cross-country skiing is subject to specific seasonal conditions.

Roman Traces and Monastery History

On the eastern edge of Klais, you can see and walk along a partially excavated section of the Roman Via Raetia. The road section is dated to around 200 AD; the wheel tracks of ancient carts are still visible. Excavations along the Via Raetia also uncovered remains of a Benedictine founding monastery connected with Scharnitz. The monastery existed from 29 June 763 to 772. A bronze plaque commemorates it. The dates point to two distinct historical reference points: a Roman road and a monastery that existed in the 8th century.

Historic Trails and Cycling Tours

An easy historic walk leads from Klais along the Roman road towards Elmau. The local tourism association also promotes a walk in the area that focuses on Klais’s history. The two options have different emphases: the walk follows the Roman road towards Elmau, while the other hike explores the history of Klais locally.

You can cycle from Klais towards Kranzbach and Elmau, with views of the Wetterstein Mountains along the way. Longer extensions lead towards Ferchensee and Lautersee. These destinations, and the option to extend your ride towards the lakes, give you different ways to plan your tours. Route conditions may vary seasonally.

Cross-Country Skiing and Getting There

In winter, cross-country skiing is another option in its own right: Klais offers cross-country skiing, including the Klais–Kaltenbrunn loop. Whether it is usable depends on snow and seasonal trail conditions. Unlike the cycling routes, snow and trail conditions are explicitly crucial for planning here.

Klais railway station was built in 1912 and stands at an elevation of 933 metres. From the station, you can explore the visible Roman road and nearby walking paths on foot. If you plan to travel by train, check current train connections before setting off.

More Things to Explore in the Wider Krün Destination

The wider Krün destination has its own local and nature-related attractions. Barmsee is a swimming lake in Krün; on its northwestern shore, there is a sunbathing lawn with views of the mountains of the Alpenwelt Karwendel. Swimming is a summer activity there. In the centre of Krün stands St. Sebastian’s Church, whose interior is decorated with understated Rococo ornamentation.

The Isar Nature Experience Trail in Krün is an easy 7.4-kilometre loop that starts and ends in the town centre. Themed areas and interactive stations offer a playful introduction to the habitat and nature along and around the Isar. As route information may not always be up to date, it is advisable to check before setting off. A very easy 3.2-kilometre hike leads from the centre of Krün to the Maria Rast chapel and through the hummock meadows near Krün.

To the overview of the wider destination: Krün.