The Oytal is one of the most scenic side valleys in the Allgäu Alps, carved by the Oybach stream as it branches east from the Trettach valley near Gruben in the municipality of Oberstdorf. It's a wonderful destination for an easy valley walk as well as a gateway to serious high-alpine hiking.

The valley offers a lovely mix of green pastures, rugged peaks and the striking Stuibenfall waterfall, a free-standing cascade you pass along the way. Interestingly, below the waterfall the Oybach often disappears underground into the streambed, only resurfacing again below the Oytalhaus. In summer the valley is lively with hikers heading to the alpine huts, while in colder months it takes on a quieter, more rugged character.

How to get there

• Oberstdorf — along the Dr.-Hohenadl-Weg or the access road (vehicle access requires special permission from the municipality), about 5 km to Oytalhaus (1010 m), easy
• From Oytalhaus onward to Untere Gutenalp (1048 m) or Käseralp (1405 m), both with summer refreshment stops
• For experienced hikers: continue via the Oytal to the Nebelhorn (2224 m) along the well-known high-alpine Gleitweg trail, 6 to 8 hours, demanding

Practical information

• The road to Oytalhaus is closed to regular vehicle traffic without special permission from the Oberstdorf municipality
• Demanding routes (Nebelhorn, Laufbacher Eck, Seekopf, Schochen) require alpine experience, sure footing, no fear of heights, and sturdy ankle-high hiking boots with good tread

The route to the Nebelhorn via the Oytal is considered one of the classic, well-loved high-alpine hikes around Oberstdorf.