Background

Rachelkapelle: A Sanctuary in the Bavarian Forest

A picturesque chapel overlooking Rachelsee in the Bavarian Forest, rebuilt with devotion after devastating fires, offering peace and stunning views.

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Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Rachelsee, the Rachelkapelle is a charming wooden chapel with a storied past. Rebuilt several times due to fires, it offers visitors a peaceful place for reflection and stunning views of the surrounding Bavarian Forest.

A brief summary to Rachelkapelle

  • Sankt Oswald-Riedlhütte, 94568, DE
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • The chapel is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the warmer months (May to October) when the Igelbus provides convenient transportation.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the chapel involves some hiking.
  • Take some time to enjoy the views of Rachelsee and the surrounding forest from the chapel's vantage point.
  • Combine your visit with a hike to the summit of Großer Rachel for a more challenging and rewarding experience.
  • Remember that the road to Racheldiensthütte is closed to private cars during Igelbus operating hours (8 AM to 6 PM) from mid-May to late October.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Racheldiensthütte bus stop (accessible via Igelbus from Spiegelau or St. Oswald-Riedlhütte), follow the marked trails towards the Rachelsee and Rachelkapelle. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour, with some uphill sections. The trail is well-maintained but sturdy footwear is recommended. There are no entrance fees or tolls to access the chapel or the trails.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Igelbus from Spiegelau (P+R Parkplatz) or Grafenau to the Racheldiensthütte bus stop. From mid-May to end of October, the Igelbus operates frequently during the day. A single journey costs approximately €3-5. From the bus stop, follow the walking directions to the chapel.

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Discover more about Rachelkapelle

The Rachelkapelle, also known as the Rachelsee Chapel, is a captivating landmark nestled in the Bavarian Forest, near the Großer Rachel mountain. Its location, on a rocky ledge 142 meters above the Rachelsee at an elevation of 1212 meters, provides breathtaking panoramic views. The chapel's history dates back to 1885 when Ludwig Leythäuser, a local forest master, constructed the original wooden structure. Sadly, this chapel was destroyed by fire after World War II. In 1951, a new chapel, again made entirely of wood, was erected on the same site. The interior was adorned with carvings by Johann Lentner, a master woodcarver from Spiegelau. Tragedy struck again in 1972 when arson claimed the second Rachelkapelle. Undeterred, the community rebuilt it in the same style, once more featuring carvings by Johann Lentner. By the late 1990s, weathering and age had taken their toll, necessitating a thorough renovation that essentially involved constructing a new building that stayed true to the original design. The chapel was reconsecrated on June 24, 2000. Inside the chapel, a bell in C sharp³ hangs in the roof turret. Cast in 1971 by Rudolf II. Perner in Passau, the bell is rung by hand using a crooked steel yoke with a flying clapper. Today, the Rachelkapelle stands as a testament to the resilience and faith of the local community, offering solace and stunning vistas to all who visit.

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