European Geopark Weeks 2025: Time travel through the Heidenheim Brenz region
From May 17 to June 1, 2025, the Heidenheim Brenz region will once again be the stage for exciting experiences relating to geological history, nature and culture. As part of the European Geopark Weeks, which take place in all UNESCO Geoparks in Europe, the Swabian Alb Geopark will also be showing its most vibrant side. Under the motto “Time travel through the Heidenheim Brenz region”, the district of Heidenheim invites visitors to discover the fascinating karst landscape and the geological heritage of the region in a variety of ways.
During these two weeks, visitors can expect a program that is as varied as it is rich in content: In addition to themed guided hikes such as “Lustwandeln auf fürstlichen Pfaden”, there are digital scavenger hunts with a focus on sustainability, where you can playfully explore the Brenz region and discover regional organic producers. Family tours in museums take guests of all ages on a journey back to the time of coral reefs - without getting wet. The offers not only provide scientific insights, but also lots of fun and creative hands-on activities. Throughout the region, museums, geopark information centers and event venues open their doors for exhibitions, concerts and experiences that combine the history of the earth and the history of mankind.
Highlight: Anniversary hike on the Albschäferweg trail
A special highlight is the Brenz Experience Day on May 25. This year, it is marked by an anniversary: ten years of the Albschäferweg are celebrated with a 9-kilometre hike from Hermaringen to Sontheim. This tour combines scenic beauty with regional identity and invites you to experience nature, history and traditions in depth. The fact that man has been connected to the landscape of the Swabian Alb for thousands of years is particularly impressive in the region - be it through fossil finds, prehistoric caves or the diverse use of the karst region over generations.
The European Geopark Weeks make these connections visible and celebrate the sustainable development that geoparks are promoting throughout Europe. The Swabian Alb UNESCO Geopark, which - like all UNESCO Global Geoparks - is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year (we reported), is helping to make natural and cultural experiences in the region accessible to all generations with its network of partners, museums and information centers. Those who embark on this special journey through time can discover the diversity of the Swabian Alb in a completely new way - informative, entertaining and inspiring.
All program items and further information can be found on the Geopark's social media channels and on the website of the Heidenheim Brenz region. A flyer with the complete event program is also available for download there.
