To think you might get through all eighty-five villages of the Lower Bavarian spa town of Bad Birnbach at one time seems like such a daunting task.
Let me tell you, it is. And if you tried, you’re doing yourself the biggest disservice imaginable.
Bad Birnbach lies in an area known as the Bäderdreieck, or Spa Triangle. Say no more, that means you’re in a sweet spot where the thermal waters and gorgeous countryside are all you need to make yourself feel better. Heck, just talking about it makes me feel better already. ;-)
Seriously though, the thermal baths are a great place to unwind and relax; and you’ll need it after you’ve gone and seen the best of the place. It seems as if every village and hamlet has an old church.
It feels like it’ll take forever to see just the 15th century St. Leonhard in Asenham; the 15th century Church of St. John in Aunham; the Church of St. James (14th century) in Brombach; St. Martin’s in Hirschenbach; and the Pilgrimage Church of St. George (13th century) in Hölzlberg.
Yikes, I forgot to mention the Romanesque 13th century Church of St. Ulrich, and the ever pretty Pfarrkirche (Parish Church) Maria Himmelfahrt.
So sorry, Bad Birnbach, if I left out any other one — there were just too many of them.
The town’s churches are only outnumbered by its many sporting activities. A great way to see much of Bad Birnbach is by a hot air balloon ride, but feel free to enjoy a guided walk on one of its many hiking trails (with 51 km of Nordic Walking trails), or a leisurely bike ride if you’re more comfortable with your feet on the ground.
It might make good sense to stay on terra firma when Bad Birnbach has a festival or other event going on (how else are you gonna enjoy it). The Christmas Market is a good one, as is the Leonhardiritt — the precious horses there look so pretty. The Maypole is quintessentially Bavarian, while the Spring and Autumn Fairs are just good old fun.
But, if you only get to come to one, you might want to make it to the Bräunlfest every May. It might’ve got its start from survivors of the Plague, but these days it’s just a great way to spend the day with family and friends.
This is just a snippet of what you’ll find to see and do in Bad Birnbach. No wonder it’s plain crazy to tackle all its many villages at one time; and no wonder they need a spa to relax, I’m exhausted…
