In the 1970s, during the economic boom, many new ski resorts were developed for winter tourism. A ski resort with cable cars was also planned for the Geigelstein area. But in 1975, committed citizens of Schleching founded the "Save the Geigelstein" initiative. Their goal was to protect the mountain and prevent the construction of the cable car. In 1991, the 3,135-hectare Geigelstein area was finally declared a nature reserve.
For almost 15 years, heated debate raged. The people of Schleching refused to be swept along by every trend. They considered what would be best for their village in the long term and focused on its true treasures: the rural landscape worth preserving, the unique biodiversity in the Geigelstein alpine meadows, the living traditions, the private landlords, and the cozy inns. Fortunately, the conservationists and nature lovers prevailed. In 1991, instead of ski resorts and luxury hotels, the decision was made to promote sustainable tourism and the Geigelstein Nature Reserve.
This one of Bavaria's largest protected areas primarily protects the sensitive and rare alpine vegetation at high altitudes. Agriculture is essential to its preservation. Only managed alpine pastures, where animals graze, safeguard the open, species-rich alpine meadows.