Altmühltal Panorama Trail

Summary: The Altmühltal Panorama Trail (Altmühltal-Panoramaweg) is a premier 200-kilometre long-distance hiking route in Bavaria, Germany. It follows the meandering Altmühl River through the Altmühl Valley Nature Park, Germany's second-largest nature park. The route of 203 km (126 miles) is typically divided into 10 to 15 daily stages, depending on the hikers abilities and/or preferences.

The trail starts in Gunzenhausen and ends in Kelheim at the confluence of the rivers Altmühl and Danube. It is classed as a moderate walk, featuring regular climbs to panoramic plateaus while remaining accessible for experienced hikers and families alike. Signage is very good throughout, being waymarked by a yellow ammonite fossil on a blue background, reflecting the region's rich paleontological history.

The main highlights of the trail includes natural wonders such as the iconic "Twelve Apostles" limestone rock formations near Solnhofen and the scenic Danube Gorge (Donaudurchbruch) near the trail's end. Cultural highlights include passing through medieval towns like Eichstätt and Beilngries, and historic sites such as Prunn Castle and the Roman Limes. For those interested in uncovering the distant past, the trail is blessed with paleontology - the area is world-famous for fossils, including the Archaeopteryx, with museums located along the route in Solnhofen and Eichstätt.