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Schöntal: A Green Oasis in Aschaffenburg

Discover Schöntal in Aschaffenburg: A historic park with a medieval abbey ruin, Bavaria's largest magnolia grove, and the Hofgarten Kabarett, offering a blend of nature and culture.

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Schöntal, a sprawling park in the heart of Aschaffenburg, offers a tranquil escape with its English-style landscape design. Originally a zoo in the 15th century, it was transformed in the late 1700s by Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell into a picturesque garden. Today, visitors can explore winding paths, admire the ruins of a medieval Beguine abbey reflected in a serene lake, and stroll through Bavaria's largest magnolia grove, boasting over 40 trees. The park also features the Hofgarten Kabarett, located in the old orangery, adding a touch of culture to this verdant retreat. With its blend of history, nature, and entertainment, Schöntal provides a delightful experience for all ages.

A brief summary to Schöntal

  • Hofgartenstraße 1A, Aschaffenburg, Innenstadt, 63739, 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

  • Visit in spring to witness the spectacular magnolia bloom, a highlight of the park.
  • Attend a Schöntalkonzerte on a Sunday morning (May-July) for free open-air music.
  • Explore the ruins of the Beguine abbey for a glimpse into the park's medieval past.
  • Enjoy a performance at the Hofgarten Kabarett for an evening of comedy and entertainment.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths and discover the park's hidden sculptures and monuments.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Schlossplatz (Palace Square) in front of Johannisburg Palace, walk east along Schlossgasse, then turn right onto Hofgartenstraße. Schöntal park will be on your left, a short walk from the palace. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes and is easily navigable. No costs are associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    From Aschaffenburg Hauptbahnhof (main train station), take any bus that stops at 'Hofgartenstraße'. Several bus lines serve this stop. From the bus stop, the park entrance is a short walk. A single bus fare within Aschaffenburg is approximately €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Aschaffenburg Hauptbahnhof to Schöntal will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic and the specific provider. The journey takes around 5-10 minutes.

  • Driving

    If driving, approach Aschaffenburg via the A3 motorway and follow signs to the city center (Innenstadt). Once in the city center, follow signs for 'Schloss Johannisburg' or 'Hofgarten'. Parking is available in the vicinity of Hofgartenstraße, with several parking garages nearby, such as the 'Parkhaus am Theaterplatz' or 'Hofgartenstraße'. Parking fees typically range from €1.50-€2.50 per hour.

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Discover more about Schöntal

Schöntal, nestled in the heart of Aschaffenburg, is more than just a park; it's a journey through time and a testament to the enduring appeal of landscape gardening. This 9.2-hectare green space, easily accessible and free to enter, offers a serene retreat from the bustle of city life. Originally established in the 15th century as a 'Thiergarten' (animal garden) to supply the castle kitchen with game, the area was enclosed by a wall under the rule of Elector Dietrich Schenk von Erbach. Towers marked its boundaries, and a moat fed by the Röderbach stream provided additional protection. This practical purpose gradually evolved into something far more aesthetically pleasing. The transformation into a landscape garden began in 1780 under Elector Carl von Erthal, heavily influenced by the designs of Friedrich Ludwig von Sckell, a renowned garden architect. Sckell masterfully incorporated the principles of English landscape design, creating a space that felt both natural and carefully curated. He also designed the Schönbusch Park, which is connected to Schöntal via a green belt, including the castle gardens. One of the park's most captivating features is the ruin of the Holy Sepulchre Church, remnants of a Beguine abbey destroyed in 1556 during the Markgräler War. Elector Albrecht von Brandenburg had established the abbey around 1530. Sckell ingeniously integrated the ruins into the landscape, placing them on an island in the middle of a small lake, creating a picturesque scene that continues to enchant visitors today. The reflection of the stone in the water creates a romantic atmosphere. The Orangerie, dating back to the park's early days, still stands and now houses the Hofgarten Kabarett, a comedy theatre known throughout the region. This adds a cultural dimension to the park, offering entertainment alongside the natural beauty. In the 19th century, the Magnolienhain (magnolia grove) was added, becoming another major attraction. With over 40 magnolia trees, some over a century old, the grove bursts into bloom each spring, creating a fragrant and visually stunning spectacle. It is considered the largest magnolia grove in Bavaria. The delicate pink and white blossoms create a magical atmosphere, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature lovers. Until after World War II, part of Schöntal was used as a kitchen garden, producing fruits and vegetables. When the park transitioned from the Bavarian Palace Administration to the city, the wall was removed to make way for a street expansion, and the kitchen garden was transformed into a landscape garden. Today, Schöntal is a popular destination for both locals and tourists. Winding paths invite leisurely strolls, while benches offer quiet spots for relaxation. A small pond with turtles adds to the park's charm, and a playground provides entertainment for children. The park also hosts various events, including the Schöntalkonzerte, a series of free concerts held on Sunday mornings from May to July. The park is also home to a number of sculptures and monuments, including a Hermes statue, an obelisk, and a sphinx. These artistic elements add to the park's aesthetic appeal and provide points of interest along the walking paths. Schöntal seamlessly blends history, nature, and culture, offering something for everyone. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape, a glimpse into the past, or a fun-filled family outing, Schöntal is a destination that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. Accessibility is a key feature of Schöntal. The park is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can enjoy its beauty. Parking is available nearby, making it easy to reach by car. Public transportation options are also readily available, with bus stops located close to the park entrance. Schöntal is more than just a park; it's a living, breathing part of Aschaffenburg's identity. It's a place where history and nature intertwine, where culture and recreation meet, and where memories are made. A visit to Schöntal is an essential part of any trip to Aschaffenburg, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

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