Pettnau: Churches, Art and the Way to the Hermitage

Pettnau can be explored through its architectural and artistic history, as well as along paths into nature. In Oberpettnau and Leiblfing, historic churches offer distinct points of interest; on the north-facing slope, a path leads to the so-called Hermitage. The heritage-listed Mellaunerhof reflects the village’s long history of hospitality, while the surrounding area offers nature for walks, hikes and explorations. If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Pettnau, you can plan your stay around these different interests: culture, outdoor trails or seasonal winter plans.

Churches and Art in Pettnau

The branch church in Oberpettnau was built in 1412. Its ceiling and altar paintings are by Josef Anton Zoller; some of the Baroque figures are by Johann Perger. The church’s history and works of art offer several points of interest: you can focus on both its age and its paintings and figures.

The parish church of St. George in Leiblfing offers a different architectural combination. It is a Romanesque building; it is said to have been renovated as early as 1090. Its tower was built in 1710 and combines an onion dome with a slender spire. The renovation date of 1090 remains uncertain, as indicated by “is said to have been,” while the tower’s construction year is recorded as a specific date. The church thus brings together different historical dates without suggesting that they describe a single building phase.

The Way to the Hermitage

On Pettnau’s north-facing slope, a path leads to the so-called Hermitage. It includes Stations of the Cross by Johann Obrleitner; at the Hermitage stands a chapel dedicated to “Our Lord in Distress.” The path itself is therefore part of the cultural experience: you encounter religious art not only inside a church, but also along this route. If you would like to combine culture with outdoor activity during your trip, this is a specific focus to consider when planning your day.

The Mellaunerhof: Inn and Architectural History

The heritage-listed Mellaunerhof is a historic inn in Pettnau and has operated as an inn since around 1600, with no significant interruptions. Its history is also connected to the area’s former transport routes: it stands at a former ferry crossing over the Inn and on one of the main routes through the Inn Valley. Its connection to the ferry crossing and route is historical.

Different architectural features come together in the building. The entrance portal is Late Gothic and framed with breccia; the façade was given a Baroque makeover and decorated with paintings in the 20th century. The Mellaunerhof also contains the “Alte Selche,” which extends from the ground floor to the attic. The building’s distinctive features thus range from the portal and façade design to this interior feature that reaches up through the house.

Nature, Winter and Getting There

The area around Pettnau offers plenty of nature for walks, hikes and explorations. The Seefeld ski area is another seasonal option in the region. If you are planning a winter stay, check which seasonal facilities are open before your trip. Nature experiences nearby and winter plans in the region complement the cultural attractions, but appeal to different travel interests.

For getting around by public transport, there are bus stops in Oberpettnau at Sauplatzl and by the Mellaunerhof inn, in Unterpettnau by the municipal office, and in Leiblfing. Hatting is the nearest railway connection. The stop is about 1 km from Leiblfing. Check the timetable and the relevant service details before travelling.

Choose a Holiday Apartment That Fits Your Plans

When looking for a holiday apartment in Pettnau, first consider what you would like your stay to focus on: churches and art, the way to the Hermitage, nature nearby or a seasonal winter stay. These points of interest are not all in the same place. So match your choice to the destinations and routes you actually plan to visit, and include the stops and timetables relevant to you in your planning. This makes choosing accommodation part of a travel plan that suits your interests, rather than one centred on a single excursion destination.

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