Are you planning your next hike and still looking for a destination you haven’t visited yet? Then we highly recommend the Hinanger Waterfall in the Allgäu. This beautiful natural site near Sonthofen may not be one of Germany’s tallest waterfalls, but it still exudes a very special charm. The moss-covered rocks over which the water flows give the place a magical feel and make you feel as if you’re in an enchanted forest.
The Growing Rock
The Hinanger Waterfall is located near Sonthofen in a gorge-like area. The water of the Hinanger Stream babbles through the rocky terrain and finally plunges over several tiers to a total depth of 25 meters. The main drop is a good 12 meters high and is the highlight of the Hinanger Waterfall. Around the cascades, calcareous tufa forms on the rock walls. This is created by a chemical reaction between the stream water and carbonated rainwater, followed by the absorption of carbon dioxide by the local mosses.
This process forms thin layers of limestone that build up on top of one another, much like in a stalactite cave, causing the rock to gradually grow. You can discover the picturesque structures of the porous rock all around the Hinanger Waterfall. Together with the mosses, lichens, and flowing water, the landscape exudes an enchanted atmosphere.
Along the stream to the Hinanger Waterfall
To reach the Hinanger Waterfall, you have several routes to choose from. The easiest way is from Hinang, a district of Sonthofen. There are several parking options here, costing between €2 and €6. Alternatively, take the train to Sonthofen and then take the bus from there to Hinang. From there, it’s not far to the entrance of the ravine, which leads you up a few steps.
Your trail takes you through the stream valley, where there are many plants to discover, such as alpine roses and bellflowers. Several paths and bridges make the hike easier until you finally reach the viewing platform at the main waterfall. This offers you an unobstructed view of the 12-meter-high waterfall and the grotto behind it. If you continue following the trail uphill, you’ll eventually be rewarded with a view of the Iller Valley and the surrounding mountains. You can either consider this a successful conclusion to your hike or continue on through the Eybachtobel.
