Horse-drawn sleigh ride in Oberstaufen in the Allgäu

A horse-drawn sleigh ride through Oberstaufen

Warm blankets drape over your knees, whilst out in front of the sledge the horses snort in the crisp winter air and their bells accompany the gentle rhythm of their hooves: on a horse-drawn sleigh ride around Oberstaufen, the snow-covered landscape glides slowly past you.

Depending on the operator, the journey takes you across white meadows, along quiet woodland paths or up into the mountainous landscape around Steibis and the Imberg. There’s plenty of time to let your gaze wander over the Allgäu Alps and experience winter at its most peaceful.

Horse-drawn sleigh rides for couples, families and groups

You can book a sleigh ride as an outing for two, with the family or with friends. Individual group rides are also available. The number of people who can take part depends on the sleigh used and the provider in question.

The meeting point, route, duration and price are agreed directly at the time of booking. Some tours can be combined with a stop at a mountain hut or other winter activities. Ask the provider what options are available on your preferred date.

Providers of horse-drawn sleigh rides in Oberstaufen

On the official Oberstaufen Tourism website, you’ll find the providers currently listed for carriage and sleigh rides. Dates are arranged individually, usually by telephone.

Book as early as possible, especially if you’re planning to go at the weekend, during the holidays or with a larger group. Be sure to enquire about the exact starting point and how to get there by public transport.

Snow conditions determine whether the ride can go ahead

A horse-drawn sleigh ride is only possible if there is sufficient snow and the ground is suitable for horses and sleighs. The route and itinerary may therefore be adjusted at short notice depending on the weather and snow conditions.

Whether a carriage ride is offered instead if there is a lack of snow is at the discretion of the respective provider. You should therefore confirm the booking again before you travel.

Wrapped up warm through the Allgäu winter landscape

As you’ll hardly be moving during the ride, you should dress particularly warmly. A winter jacket, hat, gloves and sturdy shoes are essential. Additional blankets may be provided, depending on the operator. It’s best to enquire about this when making your booking.

For children, meeting the horses can be a special part of the trip. You should check directly with the provider to find out whether young children can join the ride and under what conditions.

Winter activities around Oberstaufen

• Winter walking
• Snowshoeing
• Skiing and snowboarding
• Cross-country skiing
• Tobogganing
• Horse-drawn sleigh and carriage rides

A horse-drawn sleigh ride can easily be combined with a winter walk or a stop for refreshments. Around Steibis, Imberg and Hochgrat, you’ll find various trails and huts. Check the current opening times and the condition of the winter trails in advance.

Take the train to Oberstaufen for a horse-drawn sleigh ride

Take the train to Oberstaufen station. As the rides start from different locations, your onward journey will depend on the agreed meeting point.

If your tour starts in Steibis or at the Imbergbahn, you can take bus route 95 from the station. This connects Oberstaufen with Steibis, the Imbergbahn and the Hochgratbahn, amongst other places. For other meeting points, it’s best to ask the organiser directly for the appropriate connection.

Check the current timetable before setting off and make sure the horse-drawn sleigh ride is going ahead as planned.