Goldsteig – Südroute

The southern Goldsteig links Marktredwitz and Passau in roughly 374 km. It shares its opening with the northern route through the Upper Palatinate Forest, passing pond country, the Waldnaab valley and old castles. Beyond Oberviechtach, this journey turns towards the front ranges of the Bavarian Forest, where wooded hills, meadows, villages and river valleys shape the days ahead. From Neunburg vorm Wald and the Regen valley, the walk reaches the monastery country around Reichenbach and Walderbach. Later stages connect Falkenstein and Wiesenfelden with Konzell and Sankt Englmar. Open slopes give views across the Gäuboden, with the Alps sometimes visible on a clear southern horizon. Between them lie shaded paths and the rocky landscape of the Hölle near Falkenstein. The repeated change between village, woodland and viewpoint gives the route its variety. On the Oberbreitenau plateau, remains of former mountain farms recall a hard life on high ground. Foundations and interpretation panels preserve their story while the surrounding woods have reclaimed space. Through the Lallinger Winkel and Sonnenwald, the route reaches the Brotjacklriegel area and later the Ilz valley. Water and riverside scenery bring a different rhythm to the final approach to Passau, the city where three rivers meet. The 22 official stages suit a complete journey or a shorter walk along selected sections. This branch has a more moderate character than the northern summit route, although substantial days and strong climbs remain. Spring to autumn usually offers helpful daylight and weather conditions. Accommodation and food stops are spread among settlements and do not always sit directly on the trail. Arrange overnight stays and match drinking water and food to the day’s route. Current operator notices help with closures and changes, while railway access at both ends simplifies the logistics.