Jakobsweg Böhmen-Bayern-Tirol
The place
Catholic pilgrimage routes
Why go
Prague (UNESCO old town). Šumava National Park. Altötting (Bavaria's most important Marian pilgrimage site). Wieskirche, a UNESCO site. Panoramic views of the Zugspitze. Innsbruck's old town.
A bit of history
The medieval St James pilgrimage was widespread in Bohemia from the 12th century onward. Prague was an important starting point for pilgrims from the east, who traveled through Bavaria and the Alps on their way to Santiago. Monasteries along the route (Altötting, Wessobrunn, Steingaden with the Wieskirche) offered hospice for pilgrims.
Getting there
Prague: Václav Havel Airport (international hub). Innsbruck: train station (1h50 from Munich, 3h30 from Zurich). Well served by rail on the Prague–Munich–Innsbruck line.
Recommended gear
Hiking boots or light trekking shoes. Pilgrim credential. Passport (3 countries). Rain protection.
Best season
April to October. Autumn is especially beautiful with the golden forests of the Bohemian Forest.