Cross-country skiing in Oberammergau: the Hans-Reicherl Circuit

Cross-country skiing in Oberammergau: the Hans-Reicherl Circuit

On the Hans Reicherl Loop, you’ll glide through the tranquil winter landscape south of Oberammergau. This easy trail is 7.8 kilometres long, has only slight changes in elevation and can be skied using both the classic and skating techniques. This makes it ideal for beginners, families and anyone who wants to explore the Ammergau Alps Nature Park at a leisurely pace.

From Oberammergau railway station to the trail

Your cross-country skiing trip begins at Oberammergau railway station. From there, walk along Bahnhofstraße towards the Ammer river and turn right onto Reisachweg. When there is sufficient snow, a feeder trail to the cross-country ski trail is groomed near the town centre. The regular entry point to the Hans-Reicherl Loop is at the Oberammergau cemetery.

If you don’t have your own equipment, you can hire cross-country skis, boots and poles in Oberammergau. The Papistock sports centre is on Bahnhofstraße, near the station. It’s best to check in advance for opening times and the availability of the equipment you require.

Through the wintry Ettaler Weidmoos

The Hans-Reicherl Loop used to be called the Weidmoos Loop. From the starting point, it initially runs along the upper reaches of the Ammer. As your cross-country skis glide over the snow, views open up of the striking Kofel and the Laber. The trail then runs between the Kleine Ammer and the surrounding mountain slopes towards Ettal.

Part of the route passes through the Ettaler Weidmoos nature reserve. In winter, the open moorland lies peacefully amongst the mountains, whilst light and shadow play across the snow-covered expanses. As the circuit involves only a slight climb, there is plenty of time to let your gaze wander over the valley and the peaks of the Ammergau Alps.

An easy cross-country skiing circuit for families and beginners

The wide trail and predominantly flat terrain make the Hans-Reicherl Loop a great way to get started in cross-country skiing. The actual time taken depends on your experience, the technique you choose and the snow conditions. Families should also allow time for breaks and little discoveries along the way.

Anyone wishing to continue skiing afterwards will find a connected network of trails around Oberammergau, Ettal and Graswang. Using connecting trails, the tour can be extended, for example, towards Ettaler Mühle or Unterammergau.

Stopping for refreshments in Oberammergau

Once you’ve returned, you can enjoy a bite to eat in Oberammergau. The Ammergauer Hof restaurant is situated directly opposite the station. The menu features Bavarian and German dishes, as well as seasonal specialities. As the restaurant isn’t open every day, you should check the current opening hours before your visit.

Check the latest cross-country ski trail report

The Hans-Reicherl-Runde is groomed on natural snow. Whether the trail and the feeder trail from the village are groomed therefore depends on the current snow conditions. Check the latest trail report for the Ammergau Alps before you set off.

Travelling by train

Take the train to Oberammergau. The station is situated near the River Ammer and the cross-country ski feeder trail. If there is sufficient snow, you can reach the trail in a few minutes on foot. If the feeder trail is not groomed, the route continues to the regular starting point at Oberammergau Cemetery.