St. Margaretha Church, Irfersdorf
St. Margaretha Church, Irfersdorf
Highlight • Religious Site
Mountain biking
4.2
(20)
Cycling
4.3
(17)
Road cycling
4.5
(10)
Hiking
5.0
(5)
St. Margaretha Church in Irfersdorf is a historic Roman Catholic parish church located on a prominent hill in Irfersdorf, a district of Beilngries in Germany's Upper Bavarian district of Eichstätt. Standing at an elevation of 484 meters, this religious building is a significant landmark, known for its unique past as a fortified church (Wehrkirche) and its rich architectural blend of late Gothic and Baroque styles. It is recognized as a protected monument and an archaeological site, offering a deep dive…
This Highlight is in a protected area
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Tips
October 5, 2021
Hiking
February 17, 2024
Hiking

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Nearby routes
Best routes near St. Margaretha Church, Irfersdorf

5.0
(5)
15
riders
56.2km
03:37
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(1)
12
riders
36.6km
02:15
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 480 m
Weather
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Monday 8 June
16°C
11°C
33 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
Most visited during
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St. Margaretha Church is generally accessible during daylight hours. While there are no strict opening and closing times, visitors can usually explore the interior and grounds from morning until late afternoon or early evening, depending on the season.
Yes, the church's elevated position makes it a natural focal point for several local hiking and walking routes. Many trails in the Irfersdorf area, including circular walks, incorporate a visit to the church. These routes vary in length and difficulty, offering options for a short stroll or a longer hike through the picturesque Altmühltal region. You can find detailed maps and route suggestions on platforms like komoot.
The church is situated on a hill, so expect some inclines and descents on trails directly surrounding it. The terrain in the broader Irfersdorf area and Altmühltal is generally varied, featuring rolling hills, forest paths, and open fields. Most trails are considered easy to intermediate, suitable for casual walkers and hikers. Comfortable footwear is always recommended.
While there isn't a large, dedicated parking lot directly at the church, visitors can usually find limited parking spaces in the village of Irfersdorf, often near the church or along local streets. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends or during peak seasons, as spaces can fill up quickly.
Reaching Irfersdorf by public transport can be challenging as it's a smaller village. The nearest larger town with more frequent public transport connections is Beilngries. From Beilngries, you might find local bus services that connect to Irfersdorf, though these are often infrequent, especially on weekends. Checking current bus schedules for the Eichstätt district is recommended for planning your journey.
Beyond the church itself, the complex includes a small Baroque cemetery chapel and a late Gothic 'Oil Mountain' group of figures, which are historically significant. The surrounding Altmühltal Nature Park offers numerous natural features, including scenic valleys, rock formations, and viewpoints. Exploring the village of Irfersdorf itself, with its traditional Bavarian architecture, also provides a charming experience.
Yes, the church and its immediate surroundings can be a pleasant visit for families. The historical aspects might interest older children, and the short walks around the church are generally easy. For families looking for longer activities, there are many family-friendly walking paths in the wider Irfersdorf and Beilngries area that offer gentle terrain and scenic views.
Generally, dogs are welcome on most public hiking and walking trails in the Altmühltal region, including those around Irfersdorf. However, it's always important to keep dogs on a leash, especially near the church, in cultivated areas, or where livestock might be present. Please ensure you clean up after your pet to maintain the natural beauty of the area.
Irfersdorf is a small village, so dining options directly within it might be limited. However, the nearby town of Beilngries offers a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can find traditional Bavarian cuisine and refreshments. It's a short drive from Irfersdorf and a good option for a meal after your visit.
While the church can be visited year-round, the best seasons for hiking and outdoor activities in the Irfersdorf area are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). During these times, the weather is typically mild, the landscapes are vibrant with spring blossoms or autumn colors, and the trails are less crowded than in peak summer. Summer (June-August) is also popular, but can be warmer.