City Center Parks: Green Oases for Sun Breaks and Picnics

Kempten surprises with plenty of interconnected green spaces right in and around the city center. For many, the perfect sunny day begins on a blanket in the park – right in the city and yet surrounded by greenery.

Hofgarten: Baroque Backdrop and Sunny Lawns

Just a few steps from the magnificent city buildings, the Hofgarten offers an atmospheric interplay of baroque terraces, wide paths, and expansive meadows. Seasonal flowerbeds add splashes of color; old trees – including an exceptionally old black locust – provide shade when needed.

• Ideal for: Picnics, reading, short lunch breaks
• Bonus: Central location as a start or stop on the way to the Iller

Haubenschloßanlage: Sun Loungers and Alpine Views

Above the city, the Haubenschloßanlage combines play and sports areas with relaxation zones featuring comfortable loungers. On clear days, the view opens up to the Allgäu foothills – perfect for relaxing or as inspiration for your next little mountain tour.

• Ideal for: Short active breaks, soaking up the sun, enjoying the view
• Accessible: Wide paths and numerous seating options

Engelhaldepark: Family-Friendly Sunny Spot with Pond

Covering around 12 hectares, Engelhaldepark offers accessible paths, two adventure playgrounds, a climbing wall, Kneipp facility, and a pond of about 6,000 m².

• Ideal for: Families, jogging laps, quiet breaks by the shore
• Tip: Despite its popularity, the park's size usually means there are still quiet sunny spots

City Park, Old Town Park, and Iller Steps: Sun Deck on the Iller

The newly designed City Park and the adjacent Old Town Park seamlessly connect green spaces and seating areas to the river area of the Iller. Notable: the Iller Steps – a small amphitheater right by the water.

• Ideal for: Sun by the river, people-watching, urban nature feeling
• Comfort: Steps, lawn islands, shade-giving trees

Stadtweiher and Bachtelweiher: Historic Water Idyll

For centuries, Stadtweiher and Bachtelweiher have shaped Kempten's city history. Today, compact circular paths invite you to short, sunny walks – quieter than the central parks and with plenty of proximity to water.

• Ideal for: After-work strolls, quiet nature moments

Easy Peaks and Viewpoints: Hiking with Alpine Panorama

In Kempten, often a short climb is enough to see both the city and the Alpine chain – ideal on clear, warm days.

Mariaberg: The Local Mountain with a View

The Mariaberg (915 m) is a classic: well-maintained paths, about 229 meters of elevation gain on popular circular tours (partly via the Kalbsangstobel), and a wide view over the city and the Allgäu Alps. If you still have energy, you can extend the hike towards Blender with its telecommunications tower.

• Difficulty: easy to moderate
• Ideal for: Half-day trips without a long journey

Burghöhe: History and Panorama Near the Old Town

The freely accessible area not far from the old town opens up views south to the Alpine chain and west over the Residence and city. Historic walls and a scent and herb garden add extra charm to this sunny stop.

• Ideal for: Short breaks, photo stops, lunch breaks

Lakes and Rottach Reservoir: Sunbathing and Swimming Around Kempten

In 15 to 40 minutes you can reach a variety of swimming waters – from natural ponds to larger reservoirs with infrastructure.

Close By: Herrenwieser Weiher and Sulzberger See

• Herrenwieser Weiher: Quiet, natural pond for relaxed swimming days on the shore.
• Sulzberger See (“Öschle See”): Swimming area with kiosk, playground, diving board, and pedal boats – ideal for families.

Niedersonthofener See, Eschacher Weiher, and Grüntensee

• Niedersonthofener See: Lively swimming lake with kiosk, beach volleyball, playgrounds, and boat rental; designated dog areas.
• Eschacher Weiher: Quiet alternative for nature lovers.
• Grüntensee: Lakeside dining, family activities, climbing area, and kayak rental – versatile and scenic.

Rottachsee and Rottach Reservoir: Sun, Sports, and Water

The Rottachsee with the Rottach Reservoir is popular for water sports, walks, and relaxed hours by the water. On warm days, kiosks, beach volleyball courts, playgrounds, as well as SUP and pedal boat rentals provide variety. Some shoreline sections are designated for dog swimming.

Iller, Bike Paths, and Walks: Sunny Routes with a View

The Iller connects the city center, foothills of the Alps, and many leisure opportunities. Along the river and in the surrounding area, you’ll find varied paths for walks, jogging, and bike tours.

Panorama Loops: Hiking with a View

• “Panorama – Mountain View Hike”: About 10 km, moderate, recurring Alpine views.
• “Along the Iller”: About 8 km along the river, with quiet sections for pausing.
• Circular Route to Niedersonthofener See: Longer loop (approx. 35 km) combining views and breaks by the water.

This is how close city and countryside are: You start in the city and shortly after find yourself in the foothills of the Alps.

Combine Short Trips: Engelhaldepark, Bachtelweiher, and Iller

Family-friendly and sunny: from Engelhaldepark (playgrounds, meadows, Kneipp facility) continue towards Bachtelweiher, with breaks on benches and in light woodland sections. Alternatively, a city-close walk leads from the City Park through the old town to quieter sections of the Iller – ideal for after-work hours with birdsong and water views.

Sunsets: Golden Light Over City, Iller, and Mountains

When the sun sets, it’s less about kilometers – and more about the mood of the light, reflections, and panorama.

Urban Sunset on the Iller

Especially photogenic are sections along the Iller from which the twin towers of the basilica can be seen in the warm evening light. Here, city architecture, water, and sunset merge into an urban open-air living room.

• Bring: Blanket, light jacket, drinks, and snacks

Mountain Sun and Alpine Glow: Hochgrat, Nebelhorn & Co.

Depending on time and fitness, surrounding peaks and lakeside spots beckon: Hochgrat with its open evening panorama (when the cable car is operating), the Nebelhorn with its wide “400-peak view,” as well as quiet water surfaces like the Schwaltenweiher or the Iller reservoir near Kardorf for reflections in the evening light.

Practical Tips for Sunny Days

• Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen (SPF 30+), sunglasses, and enough water.
• Swimming lakes: Pay attention to designated swimming zones; dog areas are signposted.
• Sustainability: Take your trash with you; respect sensitive shore and meadow areas.
• Safety: Observe weather and water warnings, especially after thunderstorms or heavy rain.
• Arrival: City center spots are easily accessible on foot or by public transport; for lakes, start early as parking can be limited.

Conclusion: Consciously Experience Sunny Days in Kempten

Between Hofgarten and Iller, Burghöhe and Mariaberg, Herrenwieser Weiher, Niedersonthofener See, Grüntensee, and Rottach Reservoir: Kempten offers an impressive variety on warm days. If you only have a little time, stay urban; with half or a whole day, additional paths, water spots, and scenic stages open up – often closer than you think.

Sources and Further Information

1. City of Kempten (Allgäu) – Official information on parks, leisure, and tourism — Overview and visitor information (accessed 2025-12-31)
2. Allgäu GmbH – Regional leisure and nature tips — Lakes, hikes, excursion destinations (accessed 2025-12-31)
3. Bavarian State Office for the Environment – Bathing waters in Bavaria — Quality, safety, and information (accessed 2025-12-31)
4. Cable Cars in Allgäu – Operating times and information — Relevant info for evening rides and panorama excursions (accessed 2025-12-31)